Emma Louise Gurley Foster

Emma Louise Gurley Foster, 79, of Statesville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in her home on April 25, 2026.

Emma was born on July 18, 1946, in Statesville, North Carolina, where she lived her entire life. She was the daughter of George Gurley and Beatrice Carter Gurley, who preceded her in death. She graduated from Cool Spring School in 1964.

On November 13, 1965, she married Donald Gene Foster. Though their years together were far too few, with only 19 before his passing, their marriage was a lasting example of love, devotion, and true partnership. Through it, they taught their children everything they needed to know about marriage, relationships, and the values that would guide them as they raised their own families.

Emma was also preceded in death by her beloved grandson, David Paley.

She is survived by her children and their spouses: Donna Foster-Paley and Cary Paley; Jean Foster and Scott Rikard; and Eric Foster and Cindy Kasahara-Foster. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, whom she loved "all the numbers of the world": Emily Foster, Ryder Paley, Alexandria Foster, Karalee Rikard, and Hawkson Rikard; and by her sister, Beulah (Cricket) Ray.

Emma was a long-time member of Northview church of Christ, where she deeply loved her church family and was known for her faithful presence, generous spirit, and acts of service.

She was a woman who showed her love in action through meals prepared, hands extended, prayers offered, and a life that consistently made room for others. Her home and her heart were always open, and those who knew her experienced a kindness that was steady, practical, and deeply rooted in faith.

Friends of Emma and her family are invited to a memorial service at Northview church of Christ at 2615 Amity Hill Rd, Statesville, on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. In keeping with Emma’s love of sharing food and bringing people together, her church family will host a meal following the service. All in attendance are warmly invited to remain for lunch and fellowship as we continue to share memories and celebrate her life together.

A private graveside ceremony for immediate family and friends who wish to attend will follow at Abilene church of Christ at 120 Bell Farm Rd, Statesville, at 3:00 p.m., with Cody Poinsett officiating.

In the days before the memorial service and meal, the family will gather at the home of her daughter, Jean Foster, and friends are welcome to visit.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at stjude.org, where Emma made regular donations in memory of her grandson, David, or to Northview church of Christ, marked for the Hope for Haiti's children's mission fund. Troutman Funeral Home is handling arrangements for the family.

Emma will be deeply missed by all who knew her, and her legacy of love, faith, and unwavering care for others will continue to live on in the lives she touched.

Arrangements for Mrs. Foster are in the care of Troutman Funeral Home.