Emily J. DiMichele, age 100, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2026, in Herndon, Virginia.

Emily was born in 1925, in Exmore, Virginia. She was raised in Virginia and later moved to Wilmington, Delaware, where she attended Beacom Business College in Wilmington, in September 1943. It was there that she met Leigh M. Johnson, whom she married in April 1947. Emily lived in Wilmington for most of her life until the age of 91, when she moved to Herndon, Virginia, to be closer to her children.

Emily was first married to Leigh M. Johnson, who passed away in 1969. She later married Raymond J. DiMichele in February 1975. Each marriage lasted 22 years.

She lived a full and meaningful life centered around her faith and community. Emily was an active member of St. David’s Episcopal Church in Wilmington, Delaware, where she sang in the church choir. She was also a competitive bridge player and enjoyed quilting and sewing. She was well known for fixing loose buttons and hems and for lovingly making doll dresses for her grandchildren in her spare time. She also treasured quiet moments spent watching the world go by from her favorite porch at the beach.

Emily cherished time with her family above all else. She especially loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and found great joy in gathering with loved ones, particularly during the holidays—most especially Christmas.

Emily had five children: Robert Johnson (Becky), Gary Johnson (deceased) (Diane), Bruce Johnson, Lynn Anderson (Skip), and Barb Dennis (Kevin). She is survived by nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Emily will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and the warmth she brought into the lives of those who knew her. She touched many hearts through her compassion, generosity, and unwavering love for her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. David’s Episcopal Church, 2320 Grubb Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19810. Memo: Emily DiMichele

Emily will be buried alongside her first husband, Leigh M. Johnson, in Gracelawn Memorial Park, New Castle, Delaware.

She is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.