Gretchen M. (Hammer) Emery

Gretchen M. Emery age 86 of Ashland, passed away on January 28, 2025 at University Hospitals Samaritan Health Center.

Born in Davenport, Iowa on March 1, 1938 the daughter of Doyle and Marie (O’Keefe), she spent her childhood in Louisville, Kentucky. After graduating from High School she attended Wittenburg University, she then furthered her education by attending Ashland College where she graduated with a Master’s degree in Education. She was employed with the Ashland City School System and taught Kindergarten for 30 years before her retirement.

She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church for over 60 years and was active in many church activities including, teaching Sunday School, Weekly Church and Vacation Bible School. She was also a member of the Elenor Lentz Circle, and served on Church Council, Education Commitee, Alter Guild, TLC Preschool Board and TLC Child Care Board.

Gretchen gave freely of her time and served on the Board of Directors for the YMCA, Associated Charities, Ashland Public Library and the Ashland County Food Bank.

She was also a member of the following groups; Delta Kappa Gamma, Ashland County Retired Teachers, Athena Study Club, Pedal Pushers Garden Club and Flower Arrangers of Ashland.

On March 25, 1961, Gretchen was married to G. David Emery who precedes her in death.

Surviving are two children; Dr. Jonathan Emery and wife Mary Curran of Chagrin Falls, Ohio and Stacy Emery of Ashland. Also surviving are five grandchildren; Andrew Emery, Julia Emery, Patrick Emery, Michael Steward and Rachel Steward. She is also survived by god daughter, Lori (Rich) Williamson and daughter’s Haley Bradfield and Emily Marquette. Two sister’s in law also survive, Karen Emery of Ashland and Paula Hammer of Prospect, Kentucky. Numerous niece’s and nephew’s also survive. Gretchen loved her family and cherished the time they spent together.

In addition to her husband G. David Emery, she is preceded in death by her parents, brother James Hammer and one brother in law, Dr. William Emery.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 am on Friday February 7, 2025 at the Trinity Lutheran Church with Pastor Kevin McClain officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 10:30 till 11:30 on Friday at Trinity Lutheran Church.

Memorial contributions in Gretchen’s name may be given to either of the following organizations; TLC Montessori School, 508 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805; Kingwood Center, 50 N. Tremble Road, Mansfield, Ohio 44906 or Ashland Associated Charities,240 Cleveland Avenue, Ashland, Ohio 44805

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