Emily Ross Theurich

December 9, 1935 - April 22, 2024

Emily Ross Theurich, 88, of Murrieta, California passed away in Temecula Valley Hospital.

The daughter of Caroline and George Ross, Emily Jane was born in Pasadena, California. She had one brother, John. After graduating from South Pasadena-San Marino High School in 1953, Emily went on to attend Pasadena City College, where she met her future husband, Alfred Theurich. The couple married in South Pasadena in August 1955. Al’s employment in aerospace and national defense resulted in several moves across the United States. In 1963, they settled in Tustin, California, where they raised their three children. 

Emily worked for Gerber Children’s Centers/Childtime Learning Centers for 22 years. She began as a pre-school teacher, then moved into roles as assistant director and director before rising to the position of Regional Administrator. She and Al retired and moved to Temecula Valley in 1994. Emily was widowed in 2016. 

Throughout her life and wherever she went, Emily made life-long friends. She was the kind of reliable friend and neighbor one could always call on. Emily was the first to drop everything to lend a helping hand. She once went out of her way over the course of several months to drive across town each week to take a friend’s daughter grocery shopping when the friend was confined to a cast from the waist down due to an accident. When it came to helping others, nothing was ever too much trouble for Emily. Wherever a meal was needed, she was quick to arrive with kind words, a hug, and a nourishing casserole.

Cooking and entertaining were Emily’s love languages. Well known for her lavish dinner parties and social gatherings, Emily delighted in hosting people around her table. Throughout her life, she took pleasure in planning elaborate parties, designing beautiful table-scapes, preparing gourmet food, and serving her guests. 

Emily was actively involved in numerous philanthropic organizations including Assistance League, Woman’s Club and most recently, P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization). Of all her philanthropic endeavors, Emily was most passionate about her work with P.E.O. After joining the organization in 2008, she found great meaning and purpose in advancing women’s education through fundraising to provide scholarships. For many years, Emily performed the role of Social Chairman, a position well suited to her many natural gifts and talents. Emily remained active in P.E.O., two book clubs and numerous social groups until shortly before her death.

Emily recently celebrated 45 years of sobriety, a significant lifetime achievement. Throughout her own recovery in AA, she sponsored and mentored dozens of women in recovery and inspired countless others with her strength and courage. 

Emily joins her beloved son, mother, brother, and husband in spirit. She is survived by her two remaining children, four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

Diane Rogers, daughter, April 2024