ROCKINGHAM — Emily Rebecca Stokes Canter Willoughby, 80, passed away at her home Sunday afternoon, Dec. 8, 2019 while under the care of Community Home Care & Hospice. She had been in declining health for several years.
She was born in Richmond County on Jan. 12, 1939, a daughter of the late Frank Stokes and the late Rebecca Brock Stokes. Emily was twice married, first to the late Jack K. Canter and next to the late Jimmy Franklin Willoughby. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Canter Edwards, who died April 19, 2019.
During her working years, Emily was a cashier in the retail industry and worked for Wal-Mart. She enjoyed writing and also making dolls.
She is survived by two sons, Dennis Canter, who had been her caregiver for the past four years, and Jack L. Canter (Joy) of Indianapolis, Indiana; one daughter, Kristi Canter; two grandchildren, Frank Canter and Kandi Shores; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Eva Smith.
A graveside service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16 at Northam Cemetery where she will be laid to rest near hear parents.
Arrangements are under the direction of Carter Funeral Home of Rockingham.
Condolences may be posted online at www.carterfuneral.net.
