Emily Broadnax Billingly was born to John Henry And Elizabeth Broadnax in Camden, Arkansas On June 2, 1921.
Mrs. Emily was the oldest of 13 children. Emily married, at a young age, M.C. Billingly and to this union two children were born. Earnest Billingly, now deceased, andJerome Billingly who resides with his wife Bettie in EL Dorado. Momma Emily is the proud grandmother of eight grandchildren , 15 great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren..
Mrs. Emily attended Cosmetology School in Monroe, Louisiana where she received her professional license. She worked for many years at B and D Barber and Beauty Shop in Camden. Later building and owning her own beauty salon for over fifty years before she retired.
Mother Emily joined Velie Church of God in Christ at the age of nine years old, under the care of her mother, Elizabeth Broadnax. Mother Emily has served diligently and faithfully under many pastors, the latest being Elder Earl Green.
Mother Emily was instrumental in the building of the beautiful edifice of worship standing today. Mother Emily loves her church family and her church has demonstrated this love down through the years. She has worked in every aspect of the church ministries. She has been Sunday school teacher, choir director, president of the usher board, trustee, pastor’s aide member, Bible board teacher, just to name a few positions.
She is now The Mother of the Velie and they love her dearly. At 100 years young she is now the oldest living member and still has words of wisdom and encouragement for all she meets.