Emily "Emma" Sanders of Rockford departed this earthly Life March 6, 2024. She was born May 28, 1959 in Charleston, SC the daughter of James Manigault and Ella Blake. Emily lived in Rockford most of her life coming from Charleston. She was employed as a School Bus Driver by Rockford Board of Education over 25 years. She was also a licensed Cosmetologist being employed by Attitudes Beauty Salon and later becoming self employed. Emily grew up in New Zion Missionary Baptist Church and attended Rockford First. She was a member of The Rockford Steppers Club.  Emily graduated from Auburn High School class of 1978 and later graduated from Educators of Beauty.

Emily leaves to cherish many loving memories,  daughter, TaShara Sanders; son, Ronald (Ashley) Sanders; five grandchildren, Blake, Elijah, Jeremiah, Zechariah and Grace; sister, Helen Guadalupe; four brothers,  James (Nina) Blake, Ivan Blake, Jerome Blake and Al Blake;  a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends including special friends, Valerie Hanserd and Marcell Holmes. She was predeceased by her parents; sister, Viola  Gilliard; and brother, Thomas Blake.

Services will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Pilgrim Baptist Church 1703 S. Central Ave. Visitation will be held 8:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc.