Robert Edison Emory

Robert Edison Emory, born June 12, 1941, passed away on December 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and a twinkle in his eye that never dimmed. He was a fabulous man in every sense, the kind who made everyone feel welcome and somehow managed to turn ordinary moments into something memorable.

The son of Charles William Emory and Orpha Stricklan Emory, Robert was a proud graduate of the Rockwood High School Class of 1959. He was saved and baptized in October 1961. A strong Christian and devoted follower of Jesus, he lived his faith quietly and consistently. He served as a former deacon at First Baptist Church in Rockwood, Tennessee, where his compassion and steady heart touched countless lives. His church family was dear to him, especially the friends he made in the Joy Fellowship. They shared laughter, meals, and many miles together on group trips that he always looked forward to.

Robert was also a Mason. He was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons of Rockwood, Tennessee, and a member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the Valley of Knoxville.

He was retired from the Oak Ridge K-25 Plant as a CNF supervisor after 30 years of faithful service.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jo Ann Rogers Emory, who stood by his side for 67 beautiful years. The two celebrated their anniversary on Friday, November 28th, most likely still teasing and caring for each other with the same spark they had from the beginning.

Robert was a loving husband, a fantastic dad, and the steady center of his family. He leaves his children Mark (Kim) Emory and Suzette (Bob) Lappi with a lifetime of memories and more than a few of his famous life lessons. His grandchildren, Lauren Emory Lengel (Philip) and Patrick Robert Emory (Jasmine), inherited his warm spirit and sense of humor. His great grandchildren, Evelyn Mae Lengel, Emma Kate Lengel, Caleb Dylan Lengel, and Nolan Anthony Emory, carry forward the joy he brought into the world.

His brother, Charles Lee Emory, and wife Linda remain part of the roots and love that shaped his journey. He is also survived by his sister in law Judy Rogers Smith, nephews Rusty Kelly, Wayne (Kelli) Smith, Don (Lisa) Rodgers, and nieces Kaydra (Kevin) Threlkeld, Misty (Paul) Abston, April (Robby) Ryans, LaDonna (Drew) Gardner, Shannon (Todd) Blackburn, Courtney Emory (Jerri), Kimbery (Rodney) Hall, Emily Emory Brown (Shawn), and their families. Special family members include Janice Morgan. All were a constant source of joy, laughter, and pride throughout his life.

Robert is preceded in death by his siblings James Stricklan, Sandra Kay Emory, Ray Emory, and Anna Faye Emory Curbow. Their memory remained close to his heart and part of the foundation of who he was.

Robert lived with grace, loved with intention, and never missed a chance to offer a smile or a gentle joke. His family rests today in the comfort of knowing he is now in the presence of his Savior, fully healed and fully home.

The family will receive friends on Monday, December 8th, 2025, from 12:00-1:00 pm ET at Evans Mortuary in Rockwood. Funeral service will start at 1:00 pm ET with Bro. Ben McNees officiating. Graveside and interment services will follow in the Roane Memorial Gardens in Rockwood, TN.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.