Emily Steinhoff James lived a life as beautiful as it was impactful. From her childhood in South Dakota to building a life in Garner, North Carolina, she radiated warmth, kindness, and a deep sense of purpose that naturally drew people to her. In every role—wife, mother, sister, aunt, godmother, and friend—Emily’s unwavering love and devotion touched countless lives. Her legacy reflects the compassion and strength she brought to everything she did.

From the start, Emily had a heart for helping others. Her commitment to service led her to join the United States Army, where she distinguished herself through dedication, bravery, and a deep sense of duty. She was proud to serve her country and support her fellow soldiers. After completing her service, she earned a degree in political science at Methodist University in Fayetteville, North Carolina, continuing her passion for learning and giving back to her community. Her time in the Army shaped her passion for advocacy and justice.

This passion led her to earn a law degree in 2007 from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After graduating, Emily moved back to South Dakota, where she began her legal career as a public defender in Sioux Falls. She was drawn to standing up for those in need and fighting for justice. Later, she opened her law firm, continuing to advocate with empathy and understanding, never shying away from difficult cases or giving a voice to those without one.

Yet Emily’s desire to help others didn’t stop in the courtroom. After moving back to North Carolina, she felt called to care for people on a more personal level, leading her to pursue a nursing degree at Duke University. As a NICU nurse, she offered compassion and care to families during their most challenging times.

Emily was known not just for her skills but for her genuine heart. She had a rare ability to make people feel valued and heard. Friends and family often described her as someone who truly listened, cared, and acted with thoughtfulness. She was the first to check in, send a kind note, or be there when someone needed support. Her love was always shown through her actions, giving freely of herself to those around her.

Outside of her career, Emily’s creativity shone. She was a talented actress and vocalist, lighting up the stage at Raleigh Little Theatre. For three consecutive years, she competed in the Divas fundraising competition, raising money for RLT, and in 2020, she won the title of Diva of the Year. Balancing her artistic talents with her professional and personal responsibilities was a testament to her drive and passion for life.

But above all, Emily’s greatest joy was being a wife and mother. She and Chris built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Their son was at the heart of everything she did. As a mother to a child with special needs, she was his fiercest advocate, ensuring he had access to the resources and support he needed to thrive. She fought tirelessly to give him every opportunity to succeed. Their bond was unbreakable, and the love she instilled in him will always remain.

Emily also never stood on the sidelines when it came to the causes she believed in. If something mattered to her, she took action. Whether raising funds, volunteering her time, or using her voice to fight for change, she was a true advocate.

Her legacy lives on. She left a lasting legacy not only in Chris and their son but also in the countless lives she touched. The world is emptier without her, but the love she gave so freely remains. We honor Emily by carrying her kindness forward, standing up for what’s right, and never forgetting the incredible person she was.

Emily lived with strength and resilience, embodying the words of 2 Timothy 4:7: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 

Emily's memory continues to touch everyone who knew her, reminding us of the profound impact one person can make.