Mrs. Emma Mae Briggs Bowdry was born on February 20, 1940, in Boston, Georgia, to Walter and Mabell Briggs. She graduated from Boston High School. Following high school, Emma furthered her education by attending LaCharm Beauty School in Thomasville, Georgia, where she pursued her passion for beauty and hairstyling. Emma was one of two daughters born to Walter and Mabell Briggs. She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved sister, Carolyn Briggs (Phillip) Brown.

On October 6, 1960, Emma was united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Mr. Tom Bowdry. Their beautiful 63-year union was blessed with five children: Wanda (Terry) Ross, Teresa (Kayode) Oyewole, Ronald (Cheryl) Bowdry, Walter Bowdry, and Thomas (Jerrie) Bowdry. Emma’s legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Tiara (Marcus) Anderson, Terrence Ross, Kayla Oyewole, Kennedy Bowdry, Sydney Bowdry, Jordyn Bowdry, Kamaria Lewis, Christopher Bowdry, and Robert Gloster; and her great-grandson, Mason Anderson. She also leaves to cherish her memory two nephews, Hamilton Brown Sr. (Chandala) and Brandon Brown (Mekayla), and five great-nieces and great-nephews.

Emma devoted many years to Thomasville City Schools, serving as a cook and later as a cafeteria manager at several schools. She was known for her caring heart and dedication to serving others. She loved cooking, baking her famous cinnamon rolls, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Emma was also a faithful and dutiful member of Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, where she served the Lord and her church family in several capacities. She served as an usher, a Mother of the Church, and faithfully contributed to the Kitchen Ministry. Her love for God, her church, and those around her was evident in the way she served others.

Emma was lovingly cared for and tenderly attended to by her devoted caregiver, Mrs. Sarah Larry. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Archbold Grady Living for the compassionate care, kindness, and support.

Emma was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mabell Briggs, and her beloved husband of 63 years, Mr. Tom Bowdry. On August 17, 2026, at the age of 86, God called Emma home to her eternal rest. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, family, service, and cherished memories. She will be deeply missed by all.