Emily Stilwell Warren
February 17, 1983 - July 17, 2026
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Emily Stilwell Warren
Emily Stilwell Warren, 43, of Raleigh, NC, died on July 17, surrounded by family and friends, following a sudden cancer diagnosis.
Emily was born on February 17, 1983, in Lenoir, NC, to the late Rex Ronell “Ron” and Cecelia Stilwell. She graduated from Hibriten High School before attending NC State University, where she graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Business Management and met the love of her life, Ward Warren.
Emily built her career at the intersection of craft and creativity. She worked as a furniture designer for her family's business, carrying forward a forty-year tradition from her father before founding her own graphic design firm. She was as talented as she was generous, never too busy to design a logo, an invitation, or a favor for a friend.
Emily had a gift for making people feel like they belonged. She noticed anyone new and made sure they felt welcome and included, with an infectious laugh that could put anyone at ease. She was fiercely loyal, always the first to show up and stay late when it mattered. That was true from childhood in Lenoir, through NC State, and into her life in Raleigh. She was also a fixture on the tennis court and at the mahjong table, effortlessly good at both games, and the kind of competitor you never wanted to face across the table or on the other side of the net.
Above everything else, Emily was a wife and mother. Nothing compared to how much she loved Ward, Norah, and Henry, or how much joy she found in caring for them. The kindness, curiosity, humor, and confidence already shining through Norah and Henry are part of the legacy she leaves behind. Together, she and Ward have raised two remarkable children who reflect both Emily’s generous heart and her sharp, brilliant mind.
Emily is survived by her husband, Ward Warren, of Raleigh; her children, Norah (10) and Henry (7); her mother, Cecelia Stilwell, of Lenoir; her brother, Seth Stilwell, his wife, Jeni Stilwell, and their daughter, Ella, of Lenoir; her parents-in-law, Steve and Ellen Warren, of Rocky Mount; her brother-in-law, Reid Warren, of Raleigh; and her beloved dog, Maggie. Emily was preceded in death by her father, Ron Stilwell, whom she loved dearly, and her beloved pets, Jasmine, Gracie, and Buckley Warren.
A service celebrating Emily’s life will be held at Edenton Street United Methodist Church (228 W. Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC) on Friday, July 24th at 2:00 in the afternoon. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.
The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to two causes close to Emily's heart:
The Emily Warren Memorial Literacy Fund at Douglas Elementary School. Checks may be made payable to Douglas PTA (“Memorial Fund” on the memo line) and mailed to 600 Ortega Rd, Raleigh NC 27609 or completed online at https://www.givebacks.com/causes/28a7ce9b-7f1a-45ad-aa06-50bc7ad77d56/shop/items/c3967e2a46
Edenton Street United Methodist Church Doorstep Ministry. Checks may be made payable to Edenton Street UMC (“Doorstep: Warren” on the memo line) and mailed to 228 W. Edenton Street, Raleigh, NC 27603 or completed online at https://pushpay.com/g/edentonstreetsanctuary?fnd=9VLBhspFjcoWhzHdf66OTQ
Services
Celebration of Life Service
02:00 PM
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Condolences
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August 10, 2026
So sorry for your loss. Prayers for your family. Chad Blaha and the Crown Mark team July 22 Elegance and Simplicity Standing Spray was purchased for the family of Emily Warren
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August 10, 2026
A Memorial Tree was planted for Emily Warren We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Renaissance Funeral Home and Cremation
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August 10, 2026
Myself and others would also like to recognize Ms. Emily for her dedication to the staff and students of Douglas. She was an integral member of our PTA and helped to provide enjoyment across our school. Her passing will absolutely be felt within our school community. Sending all the love and prayers to Ms. Emily's family ❤️ Kellie Pearce
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August 10, 2026
There are no words to describe how sad we are that we have lost sweet Emily. Emily came into our lives years ago as she and Ward have been dear friends to our daughter and son-in-law. She had a special role in their wedding as she read a scripture to them and guests, of course sharing her beautiful voice and heart with all of us. She always made herself available to us, including designing birthday invitations and anything else asked of her. Her quick wit and view of the world was always something we looked forward to. She made us laugh whenever she was around -we will miss that so. More importantly, the friendship and love she gave to others will never be forgotten. We want Ward, Norah and Henry to know that we will be here for them for whatever they need, not just today, but years to come. We loved sweet Emily, special friend to so many. Robin and John Costello
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August 10, 2026
We pray for your peace and comfort in this time of loss. Rocky Mount Chamber Choir July 28 A memorial tree was planted in memory of Emily Warren
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August 10, 2026
Our family are all so sorry for your loss, and pray that our Lord will bring peace and comfort beyond understanding to all of you, even as you mourn.-Jeffrey and Sarah Batts
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