Emma Jo Grubbs, a lifelong resident of Mansfield, Ohio, passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday, May 31, 2026. Born in Shelby, Ohio, on September 21, 1965, Emma was 60 years old.
A proud graduate of Mansfield Senior High School, Emma built her life around the values of care, service, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her professional life was defined by her long-term work in nursing homes, where she dedicated herself to the comfort and well-being of others. This compassionate nature extended far beyond her career; she was known to everyone as the person who would do absolutely anything for anyone.
Emma was a woman of immense heart, tempered with a famously feisty spirit. Being the only girl in a household with five brothers undoubtedly shaped her into the strong, outspoken person her family knew and loved—someone who would always offer her opinion, whether you asked for it or not.
Her devotion to family was perhaps her most enduring legacy. Over the past several years, she became the primary caregiver for her mother, Flo, ensuring she was supported and accompanied to every doctor’s appointment. Her love also extended to her cherished canine companions, whom she famously spoiled as if they were her own children, and to her neighbors, who knew they could always count on her.
She is survived by her beloved partner of more than 30 years, James Gushard Sr.; her son, James (“Jamers”) Gushard Jr.; her mother, Florence (“Flo”) Pogue; her brothers, James (Pamela) Grubbs, John Grubbs, Hobert (Tina) Grubbs, and Richard (Melissa) Grubbs; her sister-in-law, Leigh Grubbs; her brother, Mark (Shelly) Pogue; and her half-sister, Beatrice Cox. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
Emma was preceded in death by her brother Jeffery, her father, James M. Grubbs Senior, and her beloved grandmother, Amanda Grubbs.
Emma’s legacy of kindness, care, and colorful personality will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at Werner-Gompf Funeral Services, 1106 Park Ave E., Mansfield. Services will take place at 12:30 pm at the funeral home with Bishop Matt Parr officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery.
Werner-Gompf Funeral Services, 1106 Park Avenue East, Mansfield, is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.wernergompf.com
Funeral Home: Werner-Gompf Funeral Services
Website: www.wernergompf.com