Emma F. Englund (87) of Shelbyville

Emma F. Englund, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at Shelbyville Manor in Shelbyville, Illinois.

Born on February 24, 1937, in Windsor, Illinois, she was the youngest of ten children to Jesse and Bertha (Griffin) Carter. On February 10, 1956, Emma married the love of her life, Norvel Englund, and together they embarked on a journey of companionship and mutual support.

Emma is lovingly remembered by their two children, Terry (Bob) Prasun of Windsor and Todd Englund of Shelbyville. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Aaron (LeAnn) Englund of Sidney, Cadney L. Englund of Mt. Zion, Monica (Zac) Hankins of Shelbyville, Tanner (Emily) Prasun of Gays, Tonya Brown of Tuscola, Karisa Rhodes of Windsor, Tashina Riley of Shelbyville, Haylee and Kaylee Reynolds, both of Shelbyville, Ryan (Erica) Reynolds of Mode and Hunter Rhodes of Altamont; great-grandchildren: Zayne, Zavier, Zaria, Knox, Sawyer, Reid, Derik, Jordan, Shaun, Adrian, Savannah, Gunyr, Carlyn, Jozelyn, Konyr and Havyn and one great-great-grandchild.

Emma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Norvel, who preceded her in 1999; daughter, Tami Rhodes, and all her siblings—five brothers and four sisters.

Emma farmed alongside her husband in the Westervelt area for many years and took great joy in her role as a homemaker. Her selfless nature was the cornerstone of her very being. Emma raised not only her own children but also 15 foster children, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, exemplifying the true essence of maternal love. Her home was a sanctuary of care and compassion, a place where all were welcome and cherished. Emma's unwavering commitment to her faith was evident in her active, life-long membership at the Windsor Christian Church.

Emma's talents and hobbies were as rich and varied as her love for others. She found pleasure in crocheting, bowling, golfing, and playing the organ—each activity offering her unique ways to connect with friends, family, and her community. Emma's life was a beautiful melody, composed of countless moments of joy shared with those she held dear.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Emma's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2024, at the Windsor Christian Church with Pastor Jeremiah Bear officiating. Following the service, Emma will be laid to rest at Glenwood Cemetery in Shelbyville. Memorials in Emma’s honor may be given to the Windsor Chrisitan Church and mailed to Lovins-Lockart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 52, Windsor, IL 61957. Lovins-Lockart Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Emma’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of devotion, kindness, and an unyielding dedication to her loved ones. Her memory will live on as a guiding light to all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we reflect on Emma's life, we are reminded of the profound impact one person can have through simple acts of love and the selfless giving of oneself to others.  Emma's story does not end here; it continues in the hearts of those she touched, a lasting tribute to a life well-lived.

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