Emma Jean Hawley

Emma Jean (Clayton) Hawley passed into light on July 8, 2010, surrounded by her beloved husband, Herbert Laureston Hawley III, daughters Mary Laureston (Hawley) Zimmerman and Kathleen Owen Hawley, and son-in-law Kevin Wade Zimmerman. She is also survived by son-in-law, Geoffrey Going. Born August 1, 1929 in Durham, NC, she graduated from Bragtown High School and attended Elon College where she majored in music. A highlight of this time in her life was performing with the Robert Shaw Chorale in New York City. She met her future husband while employed at Blue Cross/Blue Shield in Durham. She and Bert were married on January 3, 1959. She was a dedicated wife, mother and homemaker, yet she still pursued her other passions. Among these were historic preservation and the performing arts. She was an avid and knowledgeable collector of North Carolina pottery and antique furniture, much of which she restored herself. Always interested in politics, she ran for Salisbury City Council in 1975. She was key in organizing Salisbury’s 1976 Bicentennial celebration. For many years, she remained active with Piedmont Players, the Salisbury Historic Foundation and the Appearance Committee, and participated in the Salisbury October Tours. Emma Jean will be remembered and cherished by her family and friends as strong, smart, determined and unconditionally loving. A Memorial Service will be conducted 2:00 PM – Sunday at the Summersett Memorial Chapel. The family will receive friends from 1-2:00 PM Sunday at the Summersett Funeral Home. The family will also receive friends at the home following the service. Mrs. Hawley’s family is deeply grateful for the support of extended family, friends and neighbors. Our thanks also go to her medical team, Rowan Regional Hospice, and to Tanya, Kim and Cheryl Casper. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her name to one of the following organizations: Rowan Regional Hospice, 720 Grove St., Salisbury, NC 28144, Historic Salisbury Foundation, 215 Depot St., Salisbury, NC 28144, Piedmont Players, 213 S. Main St., Salisbury, NC 28144 or the North Carolina Nature Conservancy, 4705 University Dr., Suite 290, Durham, NC 27707.

Emma Jean Hawley

August 1, 1929 - July 8, 2010