Mary Emily Jolly Elder

Mary Emily Jolly Elder, age 90, affectionately known as Emily, was born on Wednesday, September 26, 1934, in Alexander County. She peacefully passed away on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at Valley Nursing Center in Alexander County, leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and cherished memories.

Throughout her life, Emily found joy in a variety of hobbies, including crafting, reading, dining out, and caring for her beloved flowers. She had a special talent for making bows for young girls, which brought happiness to many. Emily was also an active member of East Taylorsville Baptist Church, where she participated in the Teen Crusaders and CARE ministry—organizations that reflected her dedication to community and faith.

Emily was a woman deeply loved by her family, who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. She is survived by her children, Barbara Johnson (Dwain), Gary Elder (Kathy), and Sandy Price (Gene). Her brother, Wade Jolly, Jr. (Rita), continues the family line, along with her treasured grandchildren: Shannon Pennell (Tammy), Chad Chapman (Theresa), Chris Johnson (Amanda), Colby Chapman (Kaley), and Jatana Elder. Emily was also blessed with a granddaughter-in-law, Lauren Gobble Elder, and a loving circle of step-grandchildren, including Parks Price (Maggie) and Erin Burke (Daniel). Emily’s family continued to grow with the addition of her great-grandchildren: Taylor Pennell (Kailyn), Makenzie Caviness (Tyler), Brett Johnson (Kahia), Cole Johnson, Luke Johnson, Nicholas Chapman, Rachel Mason, Maverick Chapman, and Payson Barnes, affectionately known as Mawmaw's Little Helper. Additionally, she was proud of her great-great-grandchildren: Pryce Pennell, Cayde Pennell, Rhyne Pennell, and Blakley Caviness.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Wade and Sophia Looper Jolly; her husband, Roy Lee Elder; her infant son, Roy Elder, Jr.; her daughter, Cathy Lackey; her brother Willard Jolly (Fran) and sisters Sylvia Elder (Walter) and Janice Bowman (Marshall); as well as her grandson Ryan Elder and step-granddaughter Caitlyn Price.

Emily’s life will be honored during visitation and funeral services on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at East Taylorsville Baptist Church - Sanctuary in Taylorsville, North Carolina. The visitation will be from 2:00 pm to 3:15 pm, and the funeral service will be at 3:30 pm. Burial will follow in the Taylorsville City Cemetery. Rev. Kevin White and Rev. Taylor Pennell will officiate. Shannon Pennell, Chris Johnson, Chad Chapman, Colby Chapman, Nicholas Chapman, and Brett Johnson will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alexander Hospice, 50 Lucy Echerd Lane, Taylorsville, NC 28681.

Emily, with her unwavering love for family and commitment to her community, leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories that will be cherished by all who had the privilege to know her. Her spirit will continue to inspire and guide her family as they navigate the days ahead without her physical presence.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com