John F. Emily

John F. Emily, 94, of New Palestine, passed away January 1st, 2026. He was born March 8th, 1931, in Corydon, Indiana to parents Clyde and Margaret Emily.

John joined the United States Army as a young man, and proudly served his country from 1949-1952 during the Korean War. During his time in the service, John received many awards including a Purple Heart, Korean Service Medal with 4 Stars, and the United Nations Service Medal.

John worked for International Harvester for many years until retiring in 1981.

John was a strong, loving gentleman. He enjoyed being outdoors and camping. He was a talented skier, both water skiing and snow skiing. He continued to snow ski until he was 80 years old! John loved to travel, both locally and abroad.

He was a devoted family man, and will be missed by all who knew him.

John is survived by his children Rhoda (Darryl) Buckallew, Debra (Rick) Sharpe, and Thomas “Tommy” Emily; grandchildren Tracy Lynn Sturgill and Andrea Carlisle; and one great-granddaughter Isabelle Sturgill; as well as his dog Willy.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife and mother of his children Irene Emily; his second wife Sharlene; and his dog Lilly.

Visitation for John will be Thursday January 8th, from 12-2pm at Flanner Buchanan Washington Park East. His funeral will begin at 2pm. He will be laid to rest with military honors at Washington Park East Cemetery.