Emma Lou Nez, age 61, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2026, in St. George, Utah, following a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.

Emma was born in Tuba City, Arizona, on November 18, 1964, to her beloved parents, Bruce and Virginia Nez. She grew up surrounded by the beautiful landscapes and close-knit community of Cedar Ridge, Arizona, where she formed the foundational values of family, resilience, and tradition that defined her entire life. She attended school locally and graduated from high school in Page, Arizona, in 1982.

Shortly after graduation, Emma moved to St. George, Utah, in 1984 to further her education at Dixie College, earning her Associate Degree in 1985. She went on to dedicate her career to the medical field as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). For decades, Emma provided compassionate, hands-on care to countless patients, bringing comfort and dignity to those who needed it most. Her work was a true reflection of her generous, nurturing, and caring heart.

Outside of her profession, Emma remained deeply connected to her heritage and the land. She was an exceptionally talented creator who loved to sew and bead, crafting beautiful pieces infused with care and tradition. She also found great peace and joy in the outdoors, finding true fulfillment in tending to her livestock and caring for her animals.

Emma’s greatest pride and joy, however, was her family. She was a pillar of strength, love, and unwavering support for her daughters and grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Selena (Darrick) and Amber; her three cherished grandchildren, Tyra, Jayden, and Jasmine, who brought immense happiness to her life; as well as her sisters, brothers and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce and Virginia Nez, and her sister, Julia Nez.

Services were honored at the Nez family burial on October 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Cedar Ridge, Arizona, where she was laid to rest surrounded by the family she loved so dearly.