Emma Mae Gibson was born in Clayton, LA on February 3, 1940. Growing up in rural Louisiana, she didn’t have access to recreational activities. This left a major void in her life. This void would remain until her teenage years.   

 

The family moved to Chicago, IL during the 1950s, where she developed an extensive love and appreciation for the arts.  Emma wanted more than anything in the world to take dance and voice lessons.  However, even though the desire was there, the family was still not able to afford them.  During this time, lessons were only .25! This devastated her, and she vowed that her children would never have to sacrifice the arts.

 

TashaMaya was born and she got her chance to provide the arts for her daughter. She would also make sure her daughter played the piano and enrolled in acting lessons.

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For years, Emma Mae sponsored many youth throughout the city of Chicago with dance, tumbling and acting lessons. She wanted no child in her reach to go without having access to the arts.  Those gifted by her, to this day, still cherish their experiences and are truly grateful.  

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Emma Mae was an educator in the Chicago Public School System for over 40 years.  Her impact on the youth remains present in the communities in which she taught.  She was known for her outgoing personality, artistic bulletin boards, stern discipline, and for facilitating memorable arts driven assemblies. 

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Emma Mae was a true believer that life should be lived! Emma Mae’s SunRays Studios is dedicated to the memory of this wonderful woman, my MOMMY.