Emma Ray Lassiter Balius

Mrs. Emma Balius, age 81 long time resident of DeFuniak Springs passed away Sunday, June 20, 2010 in North Okaloosa Medical Center. She was born September 2, 1928 in DeFuniak Springs, the daughter of William Gail and Cora Campbell Broxson Lassiter.
She was a member of the graduating Class of 1947 at Walton High School. She had been employed with the Okaloosa County Board of Education and later with the City of Valpariso. Most will remember Emma Ray as a “people person” who brought happiness into people's lives and who often entertained family and friends with her impersonation of Minnie Pearl. She was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.
Emma is predeceased by her parents, a sister, Rossie Lassiter Marzella; her brother Glen W. Lassiter, her husband, Darryl Balius, her son, Louis Stricklin, her son-in-law Charlie Sasser and her grandson, Chris Sasser.

Among survivors are her daughter Deborah Sasser Lautt; her grand daughters, Robin Gail Rowe and Keturah Keith. . Her great grandchildren, Brandi, Casie and Charlotte also survive.

Floral arrangements are being accepted or memorials may be made in Emma Balius’ name to Pleasant Grove Cemetery. A time of visitation will be Wednesday, June 23, 2010 from 10 until 11 A.M. at the funeral home with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 A.M. in Jerry Evans Chapel with eulogies by Keturah Keith and scripture and prayer by long time friend Bill Kendall. Burial will follow in Magnolia Cemetery.