Emilye Barbara Courtney Schilcher Brumbaugh

Emilye Barbara Courtney Schilcher Brumbaugh, age 97, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2026. She was born on February 27, 1929, to the late James Courtney and Emilye (Tyree) Courtney Cleek in Salem, IL.

Emilye Brumbaugh will be remembered as a woman whose warmth filled every room and whose kindness was felt in the smallest, most thoughtful gestures. A wonderful baker and cook, Emilye had a gift for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Her kitchen was often the heart of her home, especially on her children’s birthdays, when she lovingly baked special cakes designed to make each celebration feel unique and unforgettable.

Beyond her talents in the kitchen, Emilye found great joy in reading, often losing herself in books that inspired her faith and curiosity. A devout Christian, she lived her beliefs through action—giving her time and care to others. She volunteered faithfully at LEAVEN and spent time visiting nursing homes, bringing comfort, companionship, and a listening ear to those who needed it most.

Emilye returned to school after raising her children and earned her bachelor's degree in Social Work. She worked for Outagamie County Social Services.

Emilye also had a deep love for animals, especially cats. Her beloved cat, Sebastian held a special place in her heart, becoming her cherished “comfort cat” and a constant source of companionship and peace.

Emilye will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her generosity, and the love she poured into both her family and her community. Emilye’s legacy lives on in the memories she created, the lives she touched, and the simple, beautiful ways she made others feel cared for and special.

Emilye is survived by her children: Chris (Mike) Suess, Sally (Craig Smith) Hugley, Tom (Lisa) Schilcher, and Patrick (Jen) Schilcher; grandchildren: Jenny Schilcher, Emily Duescher, Ericka (Tim) Wolff, Maggie (Jeff) DeCoster, Bethyn (Bryan) Baldauf, Ian Wadzinski, Sonya (Matt) Ropson, Marie Hugley, Sam (Briana) Hugley, Craig Jr (Courtney) Smith, Steven (Nichole) Schilcher, Brian Schilcher, Matt (Angie) Schilcher, Ashley (Tim) Huss, Holly (Beau) Gosse, Sydney (Ryan) Ewert, 25 great grandchildren; 3 great great grandchildren, daughter-in-law, Carol (Jim) Schilcher; and sister-in-law, Janet (David) Courtney.

In addition to her parents, Emilye was preceded in death by her late husbands: Alvin Norbert Schilcher and Leonard Clark Brumbaugh; sons: Alvin James “Jim” Schilcher, Paul Norman Schilcher, and Charles Steven Schilcher; brothers: Mont Elton “Bud”(Joyce) Courtney, James Clifton “Ciff”(Mary) Courtney, and David Tyree (Janet) Courtney; and her sister-in-law, Mary Jane Schilcher. Mary spent many treasured hours visiting with Emilye, Alvin and family.

A Funeral Service for Emilye will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond St., Appleton. Visitation will begin at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. and will continue until the time of the service. She will be laid to rest in Lakeview Memorial Park in Oshkosh. For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com.

Emilye’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the entire staff at Aspire Senior Living and Moments Hospice for the care and compassion they provided.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Neenah Animal Shelter.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.