Irma Cristine (Ward) Bailey Emery

Irma Cristine Bailey Emery, 85, of Cambria, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her family.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Blairsville Cemetery, with the Rev. R.H. Chitwood officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made to the funeral home to offset expenses.

Irma was born on July 1, 1940, in Cambria, to Mance Field and Elvernia (Vaughn) Ward. She married the father of her children William Bailey on April 4, 1959, in Hurst. He preceded her in death on December 7, 2012. Irma later married Larry Emery and he preceded her in death on May 8, 2004.

She is survived by her daughters, Pam (Tim) Brumley, Jane Ren, Rhonda (Earl) Burns, Jody Bailey, and Doretta Bailey (Bill); brother, Carlyn Ward; grandchildren, Tim (Amber) Brumley, Matt (Myranda) Brumley, Earl Byrley, James (Renee) Byrley, Michelle Howell, Danielle (Travis) Cox, Amanda (Jason) Hood, Rachel Burns, Elizabeth Bailey, Christina Bailey, Sara Bailey, Beyonce Harvey, Jeffrey (Kristy) Sargent, Kim (Tim) Ray, Jon (Trish) Sargent, Bobby (Autumn) Sargent; 56 great-grandchildren; 7 great great-grandchildren; very special friend, Kim Boles of Marion; plus several nieces and nephews; and her beloved pets; dogs, Jazzy, Oliver, Doger, Chipper, 6 cats, 2 birds, and 7 rabbits.

Irma was preceded in death by her parents; son, William “Billy” Eugene Bailey; two husbands; brothers, Ronald, Donald, Randy, and Carrol Ward; sisters, Margie Kelly, Dora Pullum, and Betty Snyder; and great-granddaughter, Angelina Khoshaba.

She dedicated over 25 years of her career to Allen Industries, having previously worked at Scheller Globe, Good Luck Glove Factory, and Smoler Brothers. Irma was known for her love of ice cream and, above all, her deep devotion to her family.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville is in charge of arrangements. 

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