Emma Todaro, 97, formerly of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully under the care of Lehigh Valley Hospice Muhlenberg who made her final days very comfortable. She was surrounded by her family whom she loved deeply. Her husband of 57 years, John Todaro, died in 2013.

Born in Scranton, she was a daughter of the late Vasil and Helena (Shipp) Babich. She was the youngest of six children, and was orphaned when she was about 18 months old. Being too young to go to an orphanage with her siblings, she lived with a foster family. Her oldest sister Anna, and husband Mike Micolochick adopted her shortly afterward. One by one, they adopted the rest of the brothers and sister to keep the family together.

After having children Emma babysat, then worked in several nursing homes and hospitals. Her last job before retiring was as a ward clerk at Allentown General Hospital, which she loved.

She was an amazing cook, enjoying the preparation of large family dinners for holidays. Until her later years when her vision became impaired, she was devoted to reading the Bible every day. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchild. She was a kind, generous, caring soul who was loved by all who knew her.

Surviving are a son, John Todaro, Jr. (Carol) of Bethlehem; daughters, Donna Holmes (Tom) of Corolla, NC, and Joan Todaro (Darlene Gibson) of New Hope, PA; four grandchildren; and a great-grandson. She was predeceased by siblings, George, John, Charles, Margie Babich, and Anna Micolochick.

Services and interment will be at the convenience of the family.

The Pearson Funeral Home, Bethlehem, has been entrusted with her arrangements.