Emma Jean Burrell

Emma Jean Burrell, 66, of 30th St. in Richmond, VA, transitioned Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at Sentara Obici Hospital. She was born on November 8, 1954 in the Buckhorn section of Suffolk, VA to Gladys Benton and the late Wallace Benton. In addition to her father, Emma was preceded in death by her loving husband, Columbus Burrell; a sister, Yvonne Nelson, and her brother, Gerald Benton. Emma was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School in Suffolk, VA. After graduating from high school, Emma entered the workforce and became a retail associate with Farm Fresh and Ukrops Grocery. She retired as head cashier after providing 40+ years of loyal and dedicated service to her customers. Emma was also a devout Christian who was a faithful and active member of Holy Trinity Church in Portsmouth, VA. She thoroughly enjoyed attending worship services and praising the Lord. Emma was a true vineyard worker at Holy Trinity, having served as a Deaconess, Sunday School Teacher, Hospitality Chairperson, Director of Sunday School Convention and once, the former First Lady. Emma leaves to cherish her memories seven sisters, Geraldine Barrett of Texas, Diane Whitfield (Aubrey) of Portsmouth, VA, Debra Edmonds (Ronnie) of Chesapeake, VA, Gladys Hamler (Derbin), Ophelia Benton, Nakita Leggette (James) all of New Jersey, and Latricia Benton of Portsmouth, VA; four brothers, Tony Benton (Christine) of New Jersey, Emanuel Benton (Francine) of Pennsylvania, Wallace Benton (Trusynia) of Suffolk, VA and Kenneth Benton (Janice) of Portsmouth, VA; three grandchildren, Gabrielle, Lumbus, Jr., and Samuel Uriah Warrior; an uncle, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A celebration of life will be held 12 Noon Friday, September 30, 2021 at Holy Trinity Church, 3611 Thorne Ave, Portsmouth, VA. Rev. Timothy Howell will deliver the message of comfort. Ms. Burrell will be laid to rest in Carver Memorial Cemetery, 2320 East Washington St., Suffolk, VA. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Emma Jean Burrell, please visit our flower store.