David, Emma

Emma David, 94, of Cedar Rapids, passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 11, 2011, at Hallmar, Mercy Medical Center. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16, at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids, with the Rev. Father Fred Shaheen officiating. Burial will take place at St. George Church Cemetery. A visitation will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the church, where a Trisagion service will be celebrated at 7 p.m.

Emma is survived by a sister, Sophie Skaff of Cedar Rapids; and many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; three brothers, James Nassif, M. Morey Nassif and Louie Nassif; and four sisters, Ida Nassif, Helen Hidder, Najebie Abdo and Mabel Abraham.

Emma was born Sept. 18, 1916, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the daughter of Rustom and Sadie (Kacere) Nassif. She married Tom David on Jan. 28, 1948, and he remained her beloved life partner until he passed away on June 3, 1996. Together they owned and operated Lyn Novelty in Cedar Rapids from the early 1970s until 1996. Emma was also previously employed by the Wilson Packing House, Legion Lanes Bowling Center and Mabeline Beauty Salon.

Although Emma had no children of her own, she adored and treasured the time she spent with her many nieces and nephews, who each held a very dear and special place in her heart. Family and friends were the cornerstone of her life, and her loving presence, zest for life, and joyful laughter will be missed by all.

She was a devoted wife, gracious sister and aunt, loyal friend, and a dedicated Christian. Emma was a lifelong member of St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, where she will be fondly remembered.

Her family and friends take comfort in the knowledge that Emma will rejoice at her reunion with her husband and family who have gone before her.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. George Orthodox Church, 3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.

Arrangements by Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home.