Emma Jean Strunk-Waltz, 90, of South Williamsport, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Valley View Rehab and Nursing Center, Montoursville.

Born February 26, 1934, in Stroudsburg, PA she was a daughter of the late Barnet and Beulah (Heller) Fellencer.

Emma Jean was a graduate of Stroudsburg High School in 1951, and later graduated from East Stroudsburg University, where she earned her degree in education in 1955. Her passion for teaching and her exceptional ability to inspire young minds led to a fulfilling career in education. She dedicated many years to the students of Stroudsburg, South Williamsport, and Williamsport Area School Districts. Her outstanding contributions to education were recognized when she was named Teacher of the Year at South Williamsport Central Elementary School in 1959. After her retirement she continued to volunteer at Jackson Elementary, Williamsport.

Her influence extended beyond the classroom, as she was honored twice as Woman of the Year, in 1983 and 2008, by the Susquehanna Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association. Emma Jean was a member and volunteered at St. John’s-Newberry United Methodist Church.

Surviving is her loving son, Michael G. Strunk (Dana) of Cogan Station; her step-son Gene R. Waltz; step-daughter Darlene C. Dolley; two grandchildren, Benjamin Strunk (Tara) and Crystal Schon (Bryan); and two great-grandchildren Asher and Kathryn Schon.

Emma Jean was preceded in death by her first husband Glenn F. “Red” Strunk, her second husband Dale A. Waltz, and her sister Shirley L. Joyce.

A memorial service to honor the life of Emma Jean will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, January 4 at Knight-Confer Funeral Home 1914 Memorial Avenue, Williamsport. A visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until time of service at Knight-Confer Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Emma Jean’s name to the St. John’s-Newberry United Methodist Church 2101 Newberry St, Williamsport, PA 17701.

Online condolences may be made on Emma Jean’s memorial page at http://www.KnightConferFuneralHome.com.