Emma Ilene Batty

Emma Ilene Batty, 96, passed away on February 11, 2026. She was born on July 12, 1929, in Dallas, Iowa, to Harvey “Bunny” and Mary Jane Willis.

Emma graduated from Melcher-Dallas High School in 1948. Following high school, she worked at Look Magazine, Younkers, and later at her mother-in-law’s daycare center. Throughout her life, Emma enjoyed staying active and social. She loved roller skating, playing basketball and softball, bowling, and visiting the casino. She was also a dedicated Girl Scout leader to her daughters, sharing her time and enthusiasm with many young girls.

On a beautiful day in 1952, Emma married the love of her life, John “Jack” Batty. They shared 65 wonderful years of marriage before Jack’s passing in 2017. Together, they created a lifetime of cherished memories, traveling extensively throughout the United States and abroad, including Europe, China, Australia, Africa, Japan, and Ireland. Family was at the heart of Emma’s life, and she treasured every moment spent with her loved ones.

Emma is survived by her children, Denise Gulling; Cindy (Richard) Heller; Lois (Brad) Bowman; Jacki (Dave) Kretz; and John Batty, Jr.; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Bob Batty; and cousin, Dale Willis.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack; her parents, Harvey and Mary Jane; her sister, Delores; and her brother, Thomas.

Family will greet friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Hamilton’s Mitchellville Funeral Home, 303 Center Avenue South, Mitchellville, Iowa. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Emma will be laid to rest at Mitchellville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the St. Cloud Pine Grove Park Community Club in honor of Emma.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.Hamiltonsfuneralhome.com.

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