It is with heartfelt sorrow and deep reverence that we honor the life of Emma Sue Leslie, who passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, at the age of 84. A lifelong resident of Bristol, Tennessee, Emma Sue’s life was a beautiful reflection of devotion, resilience, and enduring love for her family and community.
Born on August 18, 1941, to the late Joseph L. and Pearl Stitt, Emma Sue grew up rooted in the values of kindness, strength, and connection. She was a proud graduate of Tennessee High School, where she shined as a majorette in the Mighty Viking Band—an early glimpse of the spirit and grace she carried throughout her life.
Emma Sue was preceded in death by her beloved parents, her brothers Alanzo, Bill, Jack, and David Pool Stitt, and her sisters Betty Frazier and Joyce Allison. While their absence was deeply felt, we take comfort in knowing she is now reunited with them in eternal peace.
She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her devoted daughter and caretaker, Karrie McNutt and husband Jackie; her son, Rick Leslie; her cherished grandchildren—Brandy Wilson (Lee), Stephanie Geffers (Kyle), Manny Leslie, and Heath Leslie; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Jamie Ball, Abigail Geffers, Lara Wilson, Jasmine Geffers, Christian Geffers, Harper Wilson, Isaiah Geffers, and Knox Wilson. Each of them carries forward a piece of her love, her lessons, and her legacy.
Emma Sue will be remembered for her gentle heart, her unwavering dedication to her family, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life. She was a source of comfort, wisdom, and unconditional love—a steady presence whose care shaped generations. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and togetherness, and her influence will continue to be felt in the lives she touched.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the nurses and staff of Ballad Health Hospice for the compassionate care and kindness shown during her final days. Their support brought comfort not only to Emma Sue but also to those who loved her.
As we gather to remember and celebrate her life, may we hold tightly to the memories she gave us and the love she shared so freely. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit will forever remain in our hearts.
May Emma Sue Leslie rest in eternal peace, and may her memory continue to be a blessing to all who knew her.