Emma Jean Lethem

Emma Jean Lethem, 86, of Cocoa, Florida, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 25th, 2026.

Emma spent her early years growing up on a dairy farm in rural Pennsylvania, surrounded by her close-knit, large family of 13 brothers and sisters. Those early experiences helped shape her strong spirit, resilience, and deep appreciation for family.

Emma was known for her spunky spirit, her strong faith, and her love of creativity. She enjoyed sewing and working on home projects, always finding ways to make things more beautiful and personal. Her energy and determination were part of what made her so memorable to everyone who knew her.

In the 1970s, Emma built a remarkable career in law enforcement at a time when it was uncommon for women to serve in such roles. She became the first female president of the Marshals Association of California and served as assistant to the Orange County, California Marshal, earning respect for her dedication and leadership.

She later devoted her time to faith-based work, providing administrative support to many church organizations as well as the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship International. Emma also traveled alongside her husband, gospel singer Steve Lethem, helping to promote his album Touchin’ Lives and supporting his ministry.

Above all, Emma will be remembered for her deep love for her family. Her greatest joy was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who meant the world to her and were the center of her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ashley and Florence Brink; her siblings, Marian, Carl, Alma, Raymond, Geraldine, Isabelle, Ethyl, Leroy “Jiggs”, Naomi, Conrad, Helen, Betty, and Joy; her former husband, Bob Kendall; and her husband of over 40 years, Steve Lethem.

She is survived by her children, Jacqueline Hoover and spouse John, and Kathleen Hannah; her grandchildren, Matthew Baranowski and spouse Carla, Jamie Sheldon and spouse Chuck, Christoper Clark and spouse Rachael, Nathaniel Hannah and spouse Heather, David Spilker and spouse Amy and Brittney Spilker; and her great-grandchildren, Daniella Paola, Cali Sheldon, Quinten Molner, Elena Camarena, Lydia Clark, Michael Clark, Harrison Hannah, Nathan Camarena, Adeline Clark, and Kinsley Camarena.

She is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.