Stephen Emerson age 81 of Jefferson, entered his heavenly home on Friday, March 27, 2026 at Watauga Medical Center, he was a man whose dedication to his family and his work was matched only by his profound love for the outdoors.

Stephen was born in Ashe County on Wednesday, May 17, 1944 to the late Woodroe and Hattie Lou Waddell Emerson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by, brothers, Eddison Emerson, Buddy Emerson and his sister, Virginia Elliott.

A true outdoorsman, gifted craftsman, and dedicated family man, Stephen Emerson will be remembered for his steadfast presence and his hands-on skills.

Stephen dedicated 32 and a half years of his life as a machinist at Leviton Manufacturing before retiring. However, his life truly shone in his passions: woodworking, hunting, fishing, and working on the farm. An excellent trapper, he was also celebrated for his "green thumb," cultivating beautiful flowers and vegetables in his home garden. Stephen was the reliable man who could fix anything and who found great contentment in mowing his lawn, especially aboard his cherished John Deere.

His greatest joy was his family. He and his wife shared a beautiful, dedicated 49-year marriage, with her standing faithfully by him in sickness and in health. He dearly loved his family, particularly his grandsons, and treasured the summer family reunions that were special for connecting with relatives from up north.

Mr. Emerson is survived by, his wife, Lula Belle Liddle Emerson, one son, Michael Emerson of West Jefferson, two brothers, Rex Emerson (Susan) of West Jefferson, and Mark Emerson (Patricia) of Independence, VA; his sister Bernice Emerson of Lansing, two grandsons, Zachary Emerson, Benjamin Emerson (Ashley), three great-grandchildren, Weston Emerson, Gatlin Emerson and Benleigh Emerson; a special niece and nephew, Barry Liddle and Cathy Liddle, great niece, Laranie Sheets as well as several other nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 11:00 am at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel by Rev. Lloyd Day and Rev. Joey McClure. Burial will follow in Ashelawn Memorial Gardens. There will be no formal visitation.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to, Roans Creek Cemetery Fund, c/o Lula Belle Emerson, 205 Liddle Road, Jefferson, NC 28640 or to Spencer Branch Cemetery Fund, c/o Charlotte Peak, 1572 York Ridge Road, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363.