Emily Bell Church Fowler, age 80 of Shelby, passed away peacefully at her residence in Shelby surrounded by her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Janet Walker (John) of Shelby, NC, two grandchildren, Nicole Hardin (Todd) of Landrum, SC, and Jonathan Walker (Rachel) of Shelby, NC, three grandchildren, Abby Crawford, Will Crawford, and Summer Walker, a brother, Mike Church of Shelby, NC, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Born August 27, 1942 in Cleveland County, NC, Emily was the daughter of the late Claude Herman Church and Jessie Pearl Bridges Church and was preceded in death by her loving husband, Alfred Olin Fowler, a brother, Allen Church and three sisters, Jessie Goins, Pat Cornwell, and Diane Price.

Emily was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and sister. She enjoyed knitting, crafting, and spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren. Emily was a faithful member of Living Light Baptist Church and served as the church secretary for many years. She worked and retired after 30 years from Southern Bell, working many different aspects of the job. Emily always brought a smile to your face and will be dearly missed by those that knew her.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00pm Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at Cleveland Funeral Services Chapel conducted by Rev. Jeff Hayes and Rev. Chad Hayes. A visitation will be held from 1:00pm to 2:00pm prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Cleveland Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.

To sign the guest book, please go to www.clevelandfuneralservices.com.

A service of Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, Inc.