Emma-Jo Green long-time resident of Colorado Springs, and Kona HI passed away Wednesday, September 11, 2019, after a short illness.
Emma-Jo, affectionately called EJ was born in San Mateo, California on October 15, 1934. EJ was the firstborn child of Emma-Louise and Ralph Timothy Smith. Her brother Bixby, and sister, Judy followed in succession.
EJ grew up in Colorado Springs, graduating from Palmer High School. She was very active as a member of the Junior League contributing her many talents and civic service as a community volunteer.
EJ met her husband, James Monroe Green, enjoying their first date at the Cripple Creek Melodrama. Jim and Emma-Jo married in Mexico and celebrated 57 years together. Many of their favorite times were spent traveling in their RV to every single state of the country, including Alaska. In addition, they drove their RV all over Mexico, enjoying the varied customs and culture of America’s nearest neighbor. Both EJ & Jim enjoyed shopping on their travels and filled their homes with many unique and charming artifacts. For many years they were able to live out their bohemian dream on the road, depicted so eloquently in their favorite song, “Moon River.” When that chapter came to a close, they became snowbirds; spending their Winters in Kona, HI and Summer/Fall in beautiful colorful Colorado.
EJ had a knack for decorating that showcased her talent creating a home warm and inviting for her family and friends. EJ was a voracious reader, and when she wasn’t outdoors cultivating her garden that was filled with the beautiful flowers she loved, could be found curled up with a good book.
Emma-Jo is survived by her husband, Jim; his three daughters, Melany Levenson (Howard) Lisa Graven, and Shelley Rinella (John); sister, Judy Johnson (Lowell); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A private memorial service in their Broadmoor home was held in EJ’s honor on Sunday, September 15. An additional memorial service TBA will be held in Kona HI where EJ and Jim have many friends.