Emma Jean Kimbrell

Emma Jean Kimbrell, a devoted mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, at White Oak Estates in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Born on June 17, 1939, in Spartanburg, to the late Woodrow Blease Horton and Mahala Brock Horton. She spent a lifetime marked by dedication, hard work, and love for her family and community.

Emma began her career as a textile worker, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment that carried her through many years. Later in life, she embraced a new path as a Certified Nurses Aide, offering compassionate care and support to those in need, embodying kindness and patience in all she did.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Venson Kimbrell, who passed away on June 29, 1996. Emma also mourned the loss of her brothers, Billy Horton and Jimmy Horton, as well as her sister, Margaret “Sis” Tinsley, whose memories she cherished deeply.

Emma leaves behind her cherished family who will carry her spirit forward. She is survived by her daughters, Norma McKelvey (David) of Boiling Springs, Pat Howell of Boiling Springs, and Rachel Kimbrell (Sharon) of Boiling Springs. Her loving brother, Wayne Horton (Ellen) of Spartanburg, also remains a close part of her legacy. She was a proud grandmother to Wendy Howell (Derrell Millwood), Brian Howell (Holly), and Candace Pruitt (Josh), and a great-grandmother to Cadence Pruitt and Carlie Pruitt, who brought immense joy to her later years.

Emma will be remembered with deep affection and respect for the life she led—marked by perseverance, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her presence enriched the lives of those around her, and her memory will be held tenderly by all who knew her.

A visitation in honor of Emma Jean Kimbrell will be held on June 8, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM at Harris - Nadeau Mortuary, located at P.O. Box 157 / 5880 Chesnee Hwy, Chesnee, South Carolina, 29323. This will be followed by a funeral service at the same location on the same day at 4:00 PM, with Retired Pastor Mike Stepp of Carlisle Wesleyan Church officiating. Friends and family are invited to come together to celebrate her life and legacy with love and respect.

Emma’s journey may have ended, but the love and care she shared continue to inspire and live on through her family and all whose lives she touched. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

The family will be at the home of Norma McKelvey.

All arrangements are entrusted into the care and under the direction of Harris-Nadeau Mortuary and Crematory, 864-461-7788