Barbara Simkus Emery Martin

Barbara Simkus Emery Martin, a woman of sharp wit, unmistakable style, and a legendary memory, passed away peacefully at the age of 90.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on November 11, 1935, to George and Bernice Simkus, Barbara grew up with a spirited "Chicago attitude" that she proudly carried with her when she later moved to the South. She lived a long, wonderfully full life, split between her travels, competitive days on the golf course -where she routinely gave everyone a run for their money-and lively afternoons playing bridge with her dear friends. Resilient to the core, she was fond of reminding those around her that "getting old was not for the weak."

Barbara faced life’s deepest sorrows with grace, having been preceded in death by both her parents; her husbands, Arthur Buchanan Emery and Wayne Martin; and her beloved sons, Arthur Emery and David Emery.

Her legacy of love and strength lives on through her surviving family. She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Charlotte Emery; her grandson, Lee Emery, and his wife, Michelle; and her two great-grandchildren, Logan and Lawson Emery, who affectionately knew her as "GG.”

Barbara lived 90 remarkable years and will be deeply missed and remembered by the many lives she touched.

Per her explicit written requests, there will be no public “fan-fare” or elaborate services. A simple, private farewell will be held with only her immediate family present. She will be laid to rest exactly as she wished, alongside her mother and her late husband, Wayne, in Rose Memorial Park Cemetery in Hammond, Louisiana.

"Getting old was not for the weak. Night all.” - Barbara S. Martin