Emma J. Bartels, 96, of Jackson passed away Friday, Nov. 3, 2006, at the Monticello House in Jackson. She was born Sept. 25, 1910, near Tilsit, daughter of August F. and Bertha J. Sternberg Bartels.

Emma was confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Tilsit in 1924, and was a faithful, lifelong member, serving many years on the Altar Guild.

She was a sewing machine operator at the former International Shoe Company in Jackson. She worked there 30 years, retiring in 1964. Emma enjoyed her home near Tilsit, residing with her sister, Minnie, until her death in February 2000.

Loving survivors include two nephews, Joe Vrbosky of Herculaneum, Mo., Paul (Beth) Vrbosky of Jackson; a niece, Betty Phillips of Jackson; and three great-nieces, Andrea (Brian) Staton of Boulder, Colo., Amy (David) Holmes of Bloomington, Ind., Angela (Randy) Whitticre of Cape Girardeau.

She was preceded in death by two sisters, Mary (George) Vrbosky and Minnie Bartels.

Friends may call today from 4 to 8 p.m. at the McCombs Funeral Home in Jackson, and Monday, Nov. 6, after 1 p.m., at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Tilsit.

Funeral service will be Monday at 2 p.m. at the church, with the Rev. Mark Boettcher officiating.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Immanuel Church Altar Guild or Cemetery Fund.

Sympathy messages may be sent to the family online at www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.