Teresa Emmert

  Teresa L. Emmert, age 69, of Lancaster, and a former resident of Hamden, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 surrounded by loved ones. She was born October 11, 1956 in Logan, Ohio to William E. Saylor and Loretta M. Jeffers Saylor. Teresa graduated from Vinton County High School with the class of 1974. In 1978, she received a bachelor’s degree in education from Ohio University. While attending college, Teresa was a member of the women’s lacrosse team. Later, she continued with her education and received a master’s degree in education also from Ohio University. A passionate educator, Teresa became the first elementary physical education teacher in the Vinton County Local School District, dedicating 28 years to inspiring and encouraging generations of students. Following her retirement in 2007, she continued her calling as an educator by spending nine years teaching Adult Basic Education, helping countless individuals earn their GEDs and create brighter futures. Teresa then discovered a love for tutoring and served as a math and reading tutor at Central Elementary School until she moved to Lancaster in 2016. Faith was the foundation of Teresa's life. She was an active member of Faith Memorial Church CCCU in Lancaster where she faithfully served the Lord and invested in the lives of those around her through her love, kindness, and unwavering Christian example. In addition, Teresa volunteered at Fairfield Medical Center as an assistant to the chaplains, where she found great joy in witnessing to others and praying with and for patients and their families during some of life's most difficult moments. While Teresa's accomplishments in education and service were many, nothing brought her greater joy than being "Nan" to her five cherished grandbabies: Maelyn and Alayna Emmert, and Eric, Silas, and Juniper Burns. Being their "Nan" was the role she treasured above all others. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, encourage their dreams, cheer them on from the stands, or remind them how deeply they were loved. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and the love she poured into them will remain one of her greatest legacies. Her life reflected the values she held most dear—faith in Jesus Christ, a passion for education, a love of athletics, and above all, a deep devotion to her family. Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in knowing that Teresa has heard the words she longed to hear: "Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:21. She is survived by her mother, Loretta Saylor; her husband of almost 47 years, Eric Edward Emmert; son and daughter-in-law, Aaron Edward and Kristin Emmert; daughter and son-in-law, Rachel and Joel Burns; grandchildren, Maelyn and Alayna Emmert and Eric, Silas and Juniper Burns; brother, Glenn Saylor (Angie); sisters, Karen Saylor (Chuck) and Sharon Eveland (Doug), along with several in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends. Calling hours will be Friday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston. Funeral service will be Saturday, July 18, at 1 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home with Pastor Jonathan Morgan officiating. Burial will follow in the Elk Cemetery in McArthur. For those who wish, contributions in Teresa’s memory can be given to the Faith Memorial Church CCCU, 2610 West Fair Avenue, Lancaster, Ohio 43130 or by online giving at faithm.ch. Online condolences can be given to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.