Emma Lee Warrior

Forever In Our Hearts

Emma Lee Warrior

Morning Star - Iipii’soowa’aahs

January 10, 1941 ~ March 8, 2025

Emma Lee Warrior, a solid Blackfoot warrior of the Piikani Nation. The last living granddaughter of Nez Perce Scout - Leak Elk aka WARRIOR. Emma peacefully returned to the stars before dawn on March 8th, surrounded by her loved ones. She was 84 years old.

Emma was a remarkable woman who survived residential school and wore many hats: author, educator, scholar, role model, and world traveler. Her passion for learning and writing took her to many corners of the globe, including Japan, Germany, Mexico, and throughout North America. She embraced new experiences, savoring diverse cuisines and exploring different cultures and heritage. 

She spoke and taught three languages, was a spelling bee champion who loved watching Jeopardy, and playing Scrabble. She possessed a variety of skills working as a professional secretary and stenographer. 

In her early years, she traveled to Washington state working in the harvest industry, like her mother before her, picking a variety of fruits and working in the hops. In later years she worked in the canning factories, sawmill, and as a bartender. 

She received her early education in residential schools located on the reserves and later attended Peekskill High School in Peekskill, New York. For her post-secondary education, she studied at Alberta College in Edmonton, AB; Yakima Valley Community College in Washington; Wenatchee Valley Community College in Washington; Eastern Washington University; the University of Washington in Seattle; and the University of Calgary in Alberta. Throughout her academic journey, she earned a variety of diplomas and degrees.

She is survived by her three children and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Daughters, Anita Dawn Yellow Horn and Theodora Warrior-Healy (Dustin). Sons, late Clint David (Pard), Timothy Gallant and Gabriel "Yellow Dust" Gallant. 

We will deeply miss Emma's presence, wisdom, and adventurous spirit.

A Two Night Wake Service will be the Family Residence, Piikani Nation, starting Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 4:00 PM.

A Funeral Service will be held at St. Cyprian Anglican Church, Piikani Nation, on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM.

Following the Funeral Service, Emma will be laid to rest in Piikani Nation Cemetery.

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