Emma Jean Partlow

Emma Jean (Mahaffey) Partlow, 96, of Zanesville, Ohio, passed away Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Willow Haven Healthcare. Her life was filled with creativity, laughter, and a love for the family and friends who meant so much to her.
Emma was born December 1, 1929, in Zanesville, the daughter of Carlos and May (Buckey) Mahaffey. She graduated from Hopewell High School in 1947 and later retired from a podiatry office in Lancaster.
Emma attended the Methodist Church and remained involved in her community throughout her life. She served as past president of Eagles Auxiliary #2120 in Lancaster and was a former CAPA usher at the Ohio Theatre in Columbus.
True to the Mahaffey family’s spirit of fun, creativity, and laughter, Emma enjoyed sewing and crafting, shopping, and traveling. Above all, she treasured being with family and friends. Whether sharing a visit, enjoying an outing, or creating something with her hands, she found joy in the moments that brought people together. Those who loved her will carry fond memories of that joy and the time they shared.
Emma is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, who will lovingly cherish her memory.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Kim Alan Partlow; her sister, Margie Leake; her brothers, Don Mahaffey, Jim Mahaffey, Dick Mahaffey, and Bob Mahaffey; and infants Sammy and Ruth Marie.
A celebration of Emma’s life and memories will be held from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20 at BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE, with a brief service to follow with Pastor Tim Patton officiating.
In accordance with Emma’s wishes, cremation will take place, and her cremated remains will be laid to rest at a later date at Olive Cemetery in Caldwell, Ohio at a later date.