Emma Lee Matherly

Emma Lee Matherly, 73, of Coal Valley, Illinois, died Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Allure of the Quad Cities, Moline, Illinois.

Services are 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 11, at Bethel Assembly of God, Rock Island, with The Rev. Josh Smith officiating.  Visitation is 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Sunday at Trimble Funeral Home, Coal Valley.  Burial is in Rock Island National Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the family for a fund to be established in Lee’s memory.

The former Emma Lee Woods was born September 27, 1950, in Davenport, Iowa, the daughter of Allen Forrest and Edith Mary (Lemmon) Woods.  She married the love of her life, Melvin Dale Matherly, Jr. on July 8, 1968, in Rock Island.  Their union was one of unwavering devotion until Melvin's passing on April 14, 2016.

Together with her beloved husband, Lee co-owned and operated Matherly Flower and Gift Shop in Coal Valley. They shared a passion for antiques and furniture restoration, weaving their creativity into cherished pieces. Lee also dedicated 25 years of her life to serving the community through her work at the Arc of the Quad Cities. Her commitment to making a difference touched many lives.

In her younger years, Lee worked as a waitress and as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), where her compassionate nature shone through in caring for others.

Lee was a social butterfly who thrived in the company of family and friends. She cherished moments spent together, whether it was sharing dinners, attending events, or celebrating joyous occasions. 

An avid enthusiast of life's simple pleasures, Lee found joy in shopping, dancing, traveling, bicycling and exploring new adventures, often alongside her beloved husband. 

Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence, and she was an active and devoted member of Bethel Assembly of God. Her unwavering belief in God's grace provided her with strength and solace throughout life's journey.

Lee is survived by three children, Jessica (Dustin) Brown of Aledo, Illinois, Jeremiah (Merri Mosey) Matherly of Portland, Oregon, and Jason (Keerstyn) Matherly of Silvis, Illinois; four grandchildren, Bailey, Heidi and Cassandra Brown, and Emerie Matherly; her sister, Mary Fanning of Bettendorf, Iowa; a special friend, Jon Iverson of Rock Island; and her extended family of nieces, nephews, and in-laws.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and a brother, Robert Sawdey.

The family invites friends to share stories and condolences at TrimbleFuneralHomes.com.