Emma J. Castaphney

April 10, 1954 - November 27, 2018

Emma Jean Castaphney1954-2018 On Tuesday, November 27, 2018, Emma Jean Castaphney obeyed her Lord's command and met her appointment to be by His side - to forever marvel in His presence - being set free from her earthly bonds. Emma was born on April 10, 1954, in Birmingham, Alabama. She was the oldest child of Geraldine and Clarence Jefferson. Early in her childhood, Emma and her family moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and, as a young girl, she accepted the Lord Jesus Christ, as her Savior, and was baptized. On October 10, 1970, Emma united in marriage to Gill Edward Brown; and to this union were born two children: Vaughn D. and Rosa V. Brown. Emma would later adopt Ebony Castaphney, following the death of her sister, Denise Castaphney. Emma was a loving and devoted mother to her three children, and they live to celebrate her legacy. Emma attended Latimer Junior High School, and Peabody and Allegheny High Schools, before earning her associate's degree in Science, at Community College of Allegheny County. In 1977 - 1979, Emma attended Duquesne University and earned her bachelor's degree in social work. Subsequently, she graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, with a master's degree in social work. Her love for individuals and caring spirit allowed her to fulfill her lifelong dream to become a social worker. Emma worked for Allegheny Hospice, providing loving care to the terminally ill. She was a friend to all those she encountered. Emma particularly had a heart for the homeless and poor; and, she was tremendously affected by anyone's suffering. At a very young age, Emma's compassion for others was evident in her daily walk. Her "call" to care for humanity was manifested in her cheerful giving. She loved people, the theater, art, travel, and music. Emma also loved spiritual readings; and, in obedience to the Lord, she would often share meaningful writings to inspire others to seek a higher calling. Above all else, Emma had an unwavering faith in God. She wished to be remembered for her desire to help anyone with a need, or those less fortunate. Emma showed her love for all mankind in everything she did. All who met her witnessed Emma's unselfish love. Emma was preceded in death by her husband, Gill Edward Brown; parents, Geraldine and Clarence Jefferson; sisters: Denise Castaphney, Denise Evans, and Latanya Jefferson; father-in-law, Dave Williams; and brother-in-law, Jackie Brown. Emma will be sorely missed by her children: Vaughn Brown, Rosa (Jacques) Baynes, and Ebony (Ahmed) Castaphney-Zanywa; seven grandchildren: Kiara Brown, Shaquille Dugan, Jacques Baynes, Jr., Isaiah Baynes, Jensynia Baynes, Ethan Seif and Zara'Nimatoulaye Castaphney; her seven siblings: Albert Castaphney, Anita (James) Street, Gregory Castaphney, Patrick Taylor, Robert Castaphney, Saadia (Arvel) Pate, and Margret Ann Martin. She also leaves to mourn her passing a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends.