Emma Carol Murphy Riffe, 80, of Justice, WV, passed away on March 29, 2025, at St. Mary's Hospital, surrounded by the peaceful embrace of her daughter, Tonya Wakham, and family.

Born March 17, 1945, in Gilbert, WV. She was a graduate of Gilbert High School, Class of 1963, where she was a member of the band.

Emma's love for her family was evident in everything she did. She was a caring daughter, a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a doting grandmother. She will be deeply missed and loved by her brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, many cousins, and friends.

As a housewife, she devoted her heart to caring for her family and home. She was an excellent cook and made delicious desserts. She and Larry volunteered for several years with the Gilbert Band Boosters.

Emma retired from the Mingo County Board of Education, where she worked as a cook, and then spent several years alongside her dear friend, Eloise Adams, as a kindergarten aide.

Emma's parents, Edward and Clista Stevens Murphy, preceded her in death, as did her parents-in-law, Mary and Carl Riffe.

Other family members who preceded her in death were her husband, Larry Riffe; son-in-law, Gary Wakham; sisters, Joyce Ann Peak and Geraldine Gunnells; her brother and his wife, Edward and Marilyn Murphy; brothers-in-law, Okie Gunnells, Larry Levine, and Richard Brown; nephew, Charles Edward Brown; and niece, Michelle Gunnels Lowe.

Those left to mourn and remember her with love are her daughter, Tonya Riffe Wakham; her beloved grandson, Logan Wakham; sisters, Venida Brown and Janice Levine; brothers, Phillip (Sharon) Murphy and Randy (Kathy) Murphy; and her brother-in-law, Gary Riffe.

Emma's request was to be cremated. The family will celebrate her life at a later date.

The family wishes to express our profound gratitude to all the friends and family who share in our grief and fond memories. Your support during this difficult time is deeply appreciated.

Arrangements are under the direction of Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV.