ROCHESTER – Howard J. Emerson, 87, passed away Friday, January 2, 2026, at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

He was born December 30, 1938, to Otto and Hazel (Kidd) Emerson. He married Frances Taylor in Rockford in 1957. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael H. Emerson, Sr.; daughter, Jody Emerson-Grimmett; and granddaughters, Jackie Hannon and Deirdre Ferry.

Howard was previously employed by Allis-Chalmers/Fiat-Allis. He was a Jack of all trades and loved cars. He was a member of Pasfield Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Frances; daughter, Sandra Elliott (Donald Poludniak); son, Michael Eugene Emerson; grandchildren, Sarah Deen, Michael Emerson, Jr., Amanda Emerson and Shane Elliott; six great-grandchildren; sister, Elizabeth Chelinsky; brother, C. Albert Emerson; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial gathering will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of a memorial service at 11 a.m. Friday, January 9, 2026, at Vancil-Murphy Funeral Home with Pastor John Swinford officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Animal Protective League.