Emma Lee Zillich

Emma Lee Zillich passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on February 28, 2026. Family and friends celebrated Emma’s 96th birthday two days prior. 

Emma’s love for her four children and nine grandchildren was always the central focus of her life. She was born into a Baptist family of ministers in North Carolina and joined the Presbyterian church in Denver when she moved to Colorado shortly after the birth of her first son, Richard (aka Terry). She believed strongly in her Christian values and raised her children accordingly. 

Emma worked in the hospitality business her entire career. She cherished meeting new people and making new friends. She was outgoing with a beautiful smile and a helping hand to all that she met. In her later years she enjoyed traveling and visiting relatives with her significant other. 

Emma is also survived by 17 great grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren.

Emma’s celebration of life will be held at Whitney & Murphy Bueler Mortuary; 14 W. Hulet Drive, Chandler, Arizona 85225 on Monday October 9, 2026 at 10 A.M.  followed by a graveside service at 1 P.M. at Phoenix Memorial Park; 200 W. Beardsley Road, Phoenix Arizona 85207.