Emma Jean Knowles

Emma Jean Reynolds was born on May 9, 1944 in the town of Marvell, AR to Zella Reynolds and Spencer Bennett. Emma spent her early life in the care of her grandparents Gertrude and Bun Reynolds while her mother migrated north to Omaha, NE for work. At age 6 Emma left Marvell and joined her mother and father, Zella and Joseph Russell in Omaha. Her parents affectionately nicknamed her "T-Bone".Emma attended Druid Hill Elementary and Technical High School. Emma attended Mt. Nebo Baptist Church as a child and Pearl Methodist church as an adult. Emma worked as a nurse's aid at the St. Vincent De Paul nursing home. Emma also worked and volunteered at several OPS schools. Emma also worked in childcare. Emma spent the majority of her life as a homemaker and was a talented cook and seamstress. In 1968 Emma was united in marriage with U.S. Air Force Sergeant Adrian Knowles formerly of Younkers, NY. Together Emma and Adrian raised five children, Denise Brown, Doris Davis, Tracy Mackey, Bobby Reynolds, and Angela Knowles. As a family they would travel to South Carolina, Colorado, and Delaware where Adrian was stationed. After Adrian retired the family returned to live in Omaha, NE. Emma enjoyed sewing, cooking, movies and traveling. Most of all Emma enjoyed being surrounded by children. Emma was blessed with 17 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.Emma's family would like to thank her favorite cousin Annette Knight and niece Alicia "Fifi" Russell for their assistance in her time of need. The family would also like to thank the medical personnel who helped keep Emma well and comfortable in her last years. A special thank you to primary caregiver Yolanda Reynolds, Emma's granddaughter. There will be no services at this time, please send memorials and condolences to Forest Lawn Funeral Home.