Celebration of Life
Emilie Jane Ying was born in Madison, Georgia on June 28, 1933. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts.
As a commercial artist, she designed billboards and magazine advertisements; drew maps for the Tennessee Valley Authority and even designed jewelry. In 1958, she married Thomas Ying and in 1961 gave birth to their daughter, Karen. They moved to California, eventually settling in Huntington Beach, and adding daughter, Renee, in 1967.
Emilie began a hobby in ceramics in the late 70s. Through a friend in her pottery class, she became a follower of Christ and began hosting a weekly Bible study for Aglow International. Soon, she led Tom to the Lord and together they became involved in Evangelism Explosion through their local church. After Tom's passing in 1992, Emilie's involvement with Aglow expanded into serving on the board of her local chapter and traveling to their annual conferences. Through these experiences, Emilie caught the "travel bug" and explored many parts of the world including Israel, Europe and Australia. As well as traveling, Emilie enjoyed square dancing and retail therapy.
In 2014, Emilie moved to Tehachapi to be close to her family. There she made friends at the Tehachapi Church of the Nazarene and the Senior Center. In June of 2023, Emilie celebrated her 90th birthday. Quietly on Aug. 19, she went home to be with the Lord.
Emilie was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Ying, and grandson, Caleb Johnson. She is survived by her daughters, Karen Johnson and Renee Miles, and their husbands John and Warren; grandson, Joshua Johnson, his wife Karissa, and their four children, Emery, Annistyn, Caleb, and Nash; as well as granddaughter-in-law, Samantha Johnson Rivera.
Emilie's faith was unwavering and an inspiration to those who knew her.
"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 16 at 11 a.m. at the Tehachapi Church of the Nazarene, 19016 Highline Rd.
Wood Family Funeral Service has been entrusted with her care. For condolences, please visit http://www.woodmortuary.net.