Emma G. Tigerina

Emma Gonzales Tigerina, 67, of Olathe, died on Wednesday, March 2nd at Olathe Health Hospice House. As a devout Catholic, mother and grandmother, it is fitting that she went home to the Lord on Ash Wednesday after spending most of her final hours surrounded by her family.

Born to the late Tomas and Paula Gonzales on July 09, 1954, in Widener, Arkansas, Emma was the baby of seven children. Though she experienced many trials throughout her life such as being orphaned young and facing various health issues, she ultimately carved out a space in the world marked by love, generosity, and laughter. Emma married her "honey" of 52 years, Raymond Tigerina, on August 11, 1969 and then took to the roles of wife, sister-in-law, mother and aunt like a duck to water. She was incredibly proud of her family and often bestowed nicknames upon its members such as "Baby Huey," "Jon-Jon," "Sweetie," and "Owie." Many credit Emma for helping to shape them; she was an ever-present figure in their lives as she and Raymond made their home in Forrest City and then Marion, Arkansas. Some of her favorite pastimes to share with family and friends include holding and attending get-togethers, listening to music, dancing, playing bingo and poker, fishing, and watching soap operas.

Emma was also deeply devoted to her Catholic faith. She taught many the importance of prayer and to appreciate the sacraments. Emma also diligently attended Mass at St. Michael in Marion and later—when she and Raymond moved to Olathe, Kansas to be closer to their kids and grandkids—at St. Paul. Up until circumstances necessitated her and her husband's move to a skilled nursing facility, she also enjoyed leading the Rosary and attending Adoration at Church.

In her final years, Emma continued to amuse (and at times, exasperate) both her family and the nurses of Azria Health with her sweet and sassy personality. She treasured pictures and gifts (both bought and handmade) given to her and would, in turn, make crafts for her loved ones to take after a visit. As had been the case since her oldest grandson was a baby, her grandchildren received the bulk of her indulgent attention.

Emma was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Raymond and Lupe Gonzales, and her sisters Mary, Juanita, and Rosie.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband Raymond Tigerina, loving daughters Victoria (Jesse) Cantu and Emma (Travis) Williamson, adoring son Daniel (Carolyn) Tigerina, fond brother Joe Gonzales, eight doting grandchildren (Jonathan, Evangelina, RJ, Selena, Fayth, Jessica, Owen, and Oliver), and four great grandchildren (Analeigh, Alex, Noah, and Gracie). Emma is also survived by three godchildren, several brothers and sisters-in-law who love her like a sister, and a myriad of nieces, nephews, and friends who likewise hold a special place in their heart for her. Though Emma will be missed immensely, her loved ones will hold steadfast to memories of her deep faith, full-body laugh, big warm hugs, incredible cooking, and mischievous sense of humor.

Funeral services for Emma have been arranged by Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home. They will be held on Saturday, March 12th at St. Paul Catholic Church and will include a 10:00am Visitation and 11:00am Mass with Graveside service to follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.

To leave a message of condolence for Emma's family, or to share a special memory of Emma, visit the guestbook below.