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Conway……It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Emily Kaplan, who died peacefully at home in Conway, SC on February 24th, surrounded by her loving husband, Stanley Kaplan, and family. She was 91 years old. Emily was a woman of grace, warmth, and joy. She found comfort in the simple pleasures of life—whether it was the feeling of sand between her toes, collecting seashells, or sipping a glass of Champagne. She shared a special bond with her beloved husband, Emily was also a passionate fan of Opera, often filling her home with the beautiful sounds of her favorite Tenors. Above all, Emily's heart belonged to her grandchildren. She cherished every moment spent with them, showering them with love, wisdom, and laughter. Her legacy will live on in the cherished memories she leaves behind. Born in the picturesque village of Wiggensbach, Germany, she was one of fifteen children. Growing up in a household with 14 brothers and sisters, she learned early the values of family, resilience, and the joy of a lively home. After moving to the United States at age 20, she worked as an accountant for a private accounting firm and the federal government before choosing to retire early. Seeking a more peaceful chapter, she and her devoted husband, Stanley, moved to Conway, SC. There, she traded the fast-paced world of government service for the quiet beauty of the Lowcountry, enjoying a life defined by simplicity, companionship, and the love of her family. Emily will be deeply missed by her husband, children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Surviving in addition to her husband Stanley of Conway are: one daughter, Heidi Derby (Gary) of Yorktown, VA; one son, Erik Ott (Chrissie) of Myrtle Beach; three step-daughters, Leslie Barry (Douglas) of California, Donna Lewis (Mark) and Iris Tuttle (Christopher), all of Maryland; one brother, Josef Hiemer of Germany; three sisters, Theresia Haefele and Hudwig Ruebsaamen, both of Germany and Walli McGovern of Maryland; and her two grandchildren, Mattaeus Ott and Christian Ott. Her parents and 10 of her siblings from Germany predeceased her. The family will be conducting a private service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer's Association. https://www.alz.org/ Sign an online guestbook at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com Goldfinch Funeral Home, Conway Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

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Emily Kaplan

August 15, 1934 - February 24, 2026