Emily Kaye Bowen McAllister, born on February 4, 1954, in Pender County, left this world on January 9, 2026, at the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Life Care Center in Wilmington, North Carolina. Ema Kaye, as she was affectionately known, touched the lives of many and is deeply missed.

She is survived by her beloved children, Stephanie Bowen-Miller, Candice Hansley, and Bradley McAllister, who have cherished memories of a strong-willed mother who fought valiantly until the very end. Her profound love for her family extended to her grandchildren: Ramell Hansley, Cameron Hayes, Cristian Hayes, Jaryah Hansley, Aphelion McAllister, and Arianna McAllister. Ema Kaye also took immense joy in her great-grandchildren, Ivy Hayes, Kaiden Hansley, and Nova Hayes. Her brother, Leroy Murphy, also mourns her passing as they shared a bond that spanned the years.

Ema Kaye was a woman of warmth and kindness, known for her sweet disposition and her unwavering pride in her children. Cooking was not merely a task for her; it was a passion that she expressed by lovingly preparing meals for those around her. Her enthusiasm for the culinary arts was evident as she enjoyed perusing cooking shows and magazines, always eager to discover new recipes to delight her family.

Beyond her love for cooking, Ema Kaye found joy in fishing and had a fondness for the shows and movies of Tyler Perry, often immersing herself in those heartwarming narratives. Her strong spirit will be remembered by all who knew her, and her legacy of love and dedication lives on through her family and friends.

As we hold on to the precious memories of Emily Kaye McAllister, we celebrate a life well-lived at 1:00pm Sunday, January 18, 2026 at Middle District Baptist Association 1821 NC Highway 53 Burgaw, NC 28425. Viewing for relatives and friends will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Dunn Funeral Home Chapel 810 West Wilmington Street Burgaw, NC 28425 during the hours of 4:00- 6:00pm. 

The family will be receiving guest at the home of her daughter Candice Hansley, Currie, NC. 

The family would like for everyone to honor Emma Kay's memory with the color scheme of purple, lavender and white.