October 22nd, 1928 – July 28th, 2024
On Sunday, July 28, the Tarpley family lost its matriarch, Emily, affectionately known as “Pia.” Although the term used is that “she was lost,” … she is not. We find comfort in knowing exactly where she is…enjoying eternal rest and reward after an exceptionally long and unquestionably well-lived life.
She was born in Grimesland, NC, in 1928 to Leslie H. Fleming and Sarah Elizabeth (Jackson) Fleming. In 1942, during World War II, her family moved to Norfolk, VA, where she first used a telephone, ran track in the 8th grade, and graduated from Norview High School at only 16 years old. Because she was fearless and ever ahead of her time, she went away to college at the all-girl Madson College in Harrisonburg, VA. (now known as James Madison University). She returned to Norfolk with a business degree and began work as a secretary, where she met a handsome young man and her future husband of 59 years, Gabriel Hylton Tarpley.
Gabe and Emily (they called each other Puds and Dumps) were married in 1952 and moved from Norfolk to Richmond to Newport News. They began their family in 1955 with the birth of Kay, Gary, Chrissie, and Ricky. In 1959, they built a home where Emily, ever the trendsetter, had an all-pink kitchen, pink floors, pink walls, pink countertops…even a pink refrigerator. (it was, after all, the 60’s). Emily was a stay-at-home mom until 1968 when she began selling office furniture. She later started two businesses, Elegant Invitations by Emily and then Emline, where she furnished and decorated commercial office space. She was an active member of Temple Baptist Church, attended years of Bible Study Fellowship, and taught Sunday School.
Emily was sharp-witted, fun, loved to talk and laugh, classy, and the true definition of a Southern lady. She had lived through difficult times and could easily put life’s problems in true perspective. She saw the humor in life and would often chuckle, shrug, smile, and sweetly shake her head. She was strong and resolute without being stern, immovable, or pious. She was FORGIVING, never took offense, never held a grudge…saw right through your imperfections and loved you unconditionally. ALWAYS. Just like Jesus loves us.
Emily was a self-sacrificing, loving woman—the embodiment of how Jesus taught us to love and treat others. She lived in Alva, FL, for the last few years. Her memory is etched in the hearts of the family and friends (old and new) she made everywhere she went. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gabe, her son, Ricky, her parents, her sister, Shirley Hull, and her brother, Leslie Fleming. She is survived by her youngest brother, Jeffrey Fleming, as well as her three children: Kay Tarpley Capps (Edward), Gary Hylton Tarpley (Susan), and Christine Tarpley Tumelty (John); eight adoring grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
Join us in CELEBRATING her legacy of 95 years at Peninsula Funeral Home, Newport News, Va., on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at Noon. Graveside service and reception to follow.
14 Comments
Susan Heerwagen Darby August 6, 2024 at 8:20 pm
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A beautiful tribute! My sincere sympathy to the whole Tarpley family – Emily was the embodiment of a true Christian
Edie Szyperski August 6, 2024 at 8:48 pm
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This tribute beautifully depicted the lovely Emily who graced our Family through the years. Her grace and kindness was always known – and her sweet voice blessed us all. Much love to all the Family on this temporary loss – while knowing that she lives on forever in Heaven.
Ellen Teague August 6, 2024 at 8:55 pm
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Our condolences to all of Emily’s family. She was a strong and loving woman just like all the “Jackson women”! She will be greatly missed!
Ron R August 6, 2024 at 10:27 pm
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My sincere condolences to the entire family. I always liked Emily as did everyone who met her I’m sure.
Kathy Gillespie August 7, 2024 at 12:52 pm
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Wow what a Beautiful Tribute to your Momma. You are so Blessed to have a Mother that taught you and loved y’all so much!! May the memories and love of this strong and caring Woman carry you through this difficult time… Feel the prayers 🙏💚 and comfort I’m sending to you and your family to day and always.. You are so Loved Chris and I am proud to call you My Friend 😇🙏♥️
Melinda Schenkkan August 7, 2024 at 3:16 pm
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Our deepest sympathies to all of those who loved her so. What a wonderful life she had and what a rich legacy for her surviving family.
Jeff Szypersku August 7, 2024 at 3:51 pm
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Emily was the best in the truest Jackson tradition!
Jeff Szyperski August 7, 2024 at 3:53 pm
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Emily was the best in the truest Jackson tradition!
Jean Welsh August 7, 2024 at 6:11 pm
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A remarkable, lovely lady! Beautifully written obituary. We will miss you Emily.💕
Jim Szyperski August 8, 2024 at 1:35 pm
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A beautiful tribute for such a wonderful lady and our Jackson family matriarch. I will remember her as a beautifully strong, brilliant, caring, and independent woman who represented the best of an extraordinary clan of Jackson women and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Jack Szyperski August 8, 2024 at 2:41 pm
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Aunt Emily and Uncle Gabe were always the most loving and caring duo at every extended family function they attended….( Including my family). The love they projected towards me and all of us I have carried in my thoughts my whole life ..God bless Them both..Emily was a special Aunt, and she will be missed by us all. My prayers are with all of the Tarpley family at this time…
Sarah Mitchell August 10, 2024 at 12:28 pm
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I will always cherish the memories of growing up across the street from the wonderful Tarpleys. As a little girl, I loved walking over to visit, helping my grandmother watch their home on vacations, caring for Mrs. Tarpleys beloved cat, and many afternoons chatting under those huge trees in the yard. I’m grateful to have their garden bench in my yard today. My mother, Shirley, didn’t have many stories growing up that didn’t include the family. My deepest condolences to you all.
Julie Rejzer August 10, 2024 at 7:44 pm
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Such a beautiful tribute to your mother who meant so much to me. She was indeed a wonderful person who always gave so much. She took me into your family when my family was in Africa. She and your Dad were like parents to me. I’ll be eternally grateful to them.
My prayers are with you and your entire family. Much love!Carole theodore August 12, 2024 at 5:12 pm
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She was a beautiful lady. Special friend to me
