Martha Lonergan Emma, 88, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025. She was born on January 7, 1937, in Freeport, New York, where she spent her early years and laid the foundation for a life centered on family, community, and fierce devotion to those she loved.

Martha married her high school sweetheart, George Emma, on June 13, 1959, beginning a partnership centered on love, pride, and shared purpose. Together they raised their three daughters in a lively home in Bellmore, New York, where Martha was the heart of the family and a constant source of love and support.

A steadfast member of the Freeport Booster Club, Martha was deeply involved in raising funds for student athletes at their alma mater, Freeport High School. She took particular joy and pride in attending countless basketball games with her daughters, cheering on the Freeport Red Devils during the years her husband served as head coach. Her presence in the stands was dependable and her encouragement and enthusiasm were heartfelt and contagious.

Martha worked for the telephone company and in retail, balancing her professional life with her devotion to her family. She found joy in sewing, reading, and baking endless batches of her famous chocolate chip cookies, but nothing mattered more to her than her loved ones, including her beloved West Highland White Terrier, Cotton. Her home was a place of warmth, care, and unwavering commitment.

She is survived by her sister, Cathy D’Alessandro; her daughters Terry Buonomo (Lou), Chris Carillo (Dom), and Cindy Hayden; her cherished grandchildren Michael, Jennifer, Grace, and George; and her beloved great-grandchildren Cate and Beau. Her legacy lives on through them—in her strength, her generosity, and the deep bonds she nurtured throughout her life.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Fairchild Sons Funeral Home, 1201 Franklin Avenue, Garden City, on Thursday, December 18, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, December 19, at 10:00 AM at St. Barnabas Roman Catholic Church, 2320 Bedford Avenue, Bellmore, NY. Burial will follow at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, New York.

Martha will be remembered for her quiet strength, her generous heart, and her unwavering devotion to family and community. She was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.