Emma May Mincks, 83 of Bolivar, MO, beloved wife, mother, grandma, grammy, and friend, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 6, 2026, at her home, surrounded by family and friends.

          Emma was born on March 23, 1943, to Powell and Erma (Bounds) Holt.  At the age of six months and twelve days, due to unforeseen circumstances, she went to live with and was lovingly raised by Selma and Broox Kaudle, whom she cherished as her parents.

          Emma graduated from Bolivar High School in 1961.  While on the senior trip to Washington, D.C., she fell in love with the love of her life, Bill Mincks.  They were married on January 5, 1962, and were blessed to share more than 64 years of devoted marriage.  In 1976, Bill and Emma Mincks became the owners of Bill’s Feed and Farm Supply.

          Together they raised one daughter, Debra Zeugin (Ted).  Emma’s greatest joy was her family.  She was the proud grandmother of Zachary Zeugin (Marriah), Brittany Stephens (Ty), and Kaitlin Taylor (Jacob).  She was also blessed with seven great grandchildren: Harper Watkins, Brystol Stephens, Memphys Stephens, Spencer Zeugin, Sutton Taylor, Tinsley Zeugin, And Jhettson Taylor.  She eagerly anticipated the arrival of another Taylor great grandson, expected in August.

          Emma had a gift for creativity and beauty.  After working as a floral designer at Teter’s Flower Shop, she continued sharing her talents through volunteer service at the CMH auxiliary Gift Shop, where she designed countless floral arrangements.  In recognition of her dedicated service, CMH honored her with the Lillian Hutcheson Volunteer Award in 2022.  She lovingly created arrangements for family weddings, friends’ weddings, and special occasions throughout the community.

          Above all, Emma’s life was marked by her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ.  She was a faithful and devoted member of First Baptist Church of Bolivar, where she served for many years as Church Hostess and Wedding Coordinator.  Even after retirement, she continued serving through the church’s bereavement ministry, helping provide meals and comfort to grieving families.  She was an active member of the Mary Martha Sunday School Class and the Leininger WMU Group.  Emma loved her church deeply and was always willing to serve wherever there was a need.

          In 2004, Emma and her dear friend, Emma Franklin, were honored together as Bolivar’s Kindest Citizens.  The two friends were often seen together, hosting events, encouraging others, and faithfully praying for their children and families.

          Emma’s servant heart extended far beyond the walls of her church.  She faithfully prayed for her family and friends every day and was always ready to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement.  She enjoyed her weekly bridge games and monthly domino gatherings, where she formed lasting friendships and created treasured memories.  As a grandmother and great-grandmother, she rarely missed an opportunity to attend sporting events, school activities, and family celebrations, always cheering on those she loved.  Emma’s legacy is one of faith, kindness, service, and love.  She devoted her life to her Lord, her family, her church, and her community.  Those who knew her were blessed by her gentle spirit, generous heart, and steadfast prayers.  She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered until the day we are reunited with her in the presence of the Lord.

          A celebration of Emma’s life will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Bolivar, with Rev. Ray Leininger officiating.  Burial will follow at the Greenwood Cemetery.  Visitation will take place at the church Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Bolivar.  Online condolences may be made at: www.greenlawnfuneralhome.com.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Pitts Chapel Bolivar, MO.