Emma Jean Grogan
Emma Jean Grogan, 87, passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025. She was born in Franklin County, Virginia, on December 2, 1937, to the late John Samuel Smith and Callie Haskins Smith. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by two sisters, Myrtle Robetson and Ruby Matherly; and two brothers, Burton Smith and Cecil Smith.
Emma Jean devoted much of her life to her work as a seamstress. She spent many years with Pannill Knitting Mill, later known as Sara Lee, in Martinsville, Virginia. Before that, she worked at Eagles 5&10, where she met Thomas, the love of her life. The two married on July 6, 1958, and went on to share 67 wonderful years together.
A devoted and family-oriented woman, Emma Jean lovingly helped raise three generations in her home. She was kind, nurturing, and fiercely protective of those she loved—always putting the needs of her family above her own.
A talented and creative spirit, Emma Jean enjoyed all types of crafts, especially sewing. Her beautiful, crocheted pieces were often displayed and sold at the Bassett Craft Show. Her family admired her meticulous attention to detail—whether she was planning annual family vacations months in advance or doing a bit of “research” on the new people in her grandchildren’s lives, Emma Jean always made sure everything was perfectly in order. Nothing escaped her care or attention; she truly had a way of keeping life beautifully stitched together.
Left to cherish her memories are her husband, Thomas Howard Grogan; daughter, Betty Bryant Boitnott; brother, Carroll Smith; granddaughters, Krystal B. Halsey (Chris) and Tiffany N. Archer (Daniel); and five great-grandchildren, Emma, Brooks, Jace, Jax, and Jasper.
There will be a visitation at Norris Funeral Service in Martinsville on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM. The Funeral Service will be at Norris Funeral Services in Martinsville, on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with Pastor Tim Wood officiating. A burial will take place on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Roselawn Burial Park in Martinsville.
Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory is serving the Grogan family. Online condolences can be made at www.NorrisFuneral.com.
