Obituary of Emma Pearl Medina

On January 30, 1950, in the heart of Queens, New York, Chauncey and Nettie Woodard were blessed with the arrival of their youngest child, Emma Pearl Woodard. A cherished gift to her family and a beloved figure in her community, Emma's life was a testament to boundless love, unwavering strength, and selfless compassion.

Educated in the New York City school system, where she attended Eli Whitney High School in Brooklyn, NY, Emma's journey was marked by her unbreakable devotion to her family and friends.

Emma was, without a doubt, a guardian of her family, committed to their well-being and happiness above all else. She embodied strength throughout her life and faced every challenge head-on, earning her reputation as a tenacious fighter.

One of her favorite pastimes was connecting with loved ones over the phone, offering comfort and a listening ear to those in need. Her unwavering support was a pillar of strength for those fortunate enough to have her in their lives.

Emma found joy in life's simple pleasures, with a passion for dancing. She loved to dance to the rhythm of old-school R&B and the soulful melodies of Motown, especially her favorite, Smokey Robinson. Her kitchen was a place of magic, where she showcased her cooking talents and shared her love through her delicious meals. Her cooking was legendary, and her recipes will forever be treasured.

Above all, Emma was the heart of her family. Her love knew no bounds, and her home was a sanctuary where everyone was welcome. Her niece, Tashina, aptly captured her essence: "You either ate at her house, stayed at her house, or lived at her house." Emma's doors were open wide, and her generous spirit extended to family and friends in need.

On October 4, 1971, Emma welcomed her first child, Ronald Woodard, into the world. In 1972, she met the love of her life, Jose (Joe) Medina and their love story blossomed. They exchanged vows on September 28, 1974, and their union was blessed with three more children: Nichelle Anice Medina, Kimberly Janine Medina, and Joseph Denard Medina. Emma and Joe's home in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, was not just a house but a haven of love, compassion, and unforgettable parties.

Professionally, Emma left her mark at Brooklyn Tech High School, where she dedicated her time as a cook. She also ventured into entrepreneurship, opening a video rental store in Brooklyn in the early days of video rentals, a testament to her pioneering spirit.

Emma's parents, Chauncey and Nettie Woodard, preceded her in death, along with her two sisters, Fanny May Woodard and Anna Lou Doman, and four brothers, Charles Woodard Sr., Chauncey Woodard, Jr., Samuel Woodard, and Phillip Woodard.

She leaves behind a legacy of love cherished by her four children, Ronald Woodard, Nichelle Anice Medina, Kimberly Janine Medina (son-in-love Ramadan Latif), and Joseph Denard Medina; six grandchildren, Troy Medina, Heaven Mapp, Anice Medina, Trinity Latif, Trianna Latif, and Jahmir Medina; and one great-granddaughter, Alahni Medina-Francis. Additionally, her memory lives on in the hearts of a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Emma Pearl Medina's life was a masterpiece of love, resilience, and the power of unity. Her memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those she touched, and her spirit will live on through the love she shared with all who knew her.

Though Emma may have taken her leave from this world, her light will continue to shine brightly, illuminating our lives and guiding us with the lessons of love, strength, and compassion she so beautifully exemplified.

"In her love, her tenacity, and her boundless generosity, Emma taught us the true meaning of family, friendship, and the unbeatable spirit of a fighter."