Tribute

Tribute to Emma Alamillo: Emma Alamillo was not just a body; she was a beautiful soul, a butterfly in this world. A determined, kind, and hardworking immigrant, she came to the United States with a dream and fire in her heart. Fresh out of seamstress school in Mexico, she arrived ready to work to learn, and build a better life. She took English classes at night while working long hours in a clothing warehouse. She narrowly escaped an immigration raid one day, simply because she was late to work. That moment was one of many that showed the risks she faced and the quiet strength she carried. Emma eventually found work at JCPenney, where she became a trusted seamstress, hemming pants, tailoring wedding dresses, and doing the detailed work others might overlook. She provided for her family through steady effort and love. She was the heartbeat of our home. In 2013, health complications began to arise. Doctors discovered a severe calcification around her heart, likely the result of a childhood flu. She underwent open-heart surgeries in 2015 and again in 2018. Still, she gave love, strength, and care to her family. Emma was not just a worker or patient—she was a mother, sister, grandmother, and friend. She was part of her church and always gave back. She had amazing friends, loved to dance, go out, and travel. When she chose to donate her body to science, I asked her why. She said, “Because I can and want to. If I can help them to learn something, maybe they’ll help someone else, and to know I helped—that will be my gift to life.” She wanted her body to speak for her so others might live fuller lives. My grandmother worked hard for decades for her family. When I was young, she’d sneak me money for snacks or toys. She was a social butterfly with a great number of friends who now deeply mourn her. She loved to travel and enjoy the world, and she stayed positive no matter what. Even when this last year brought immense pain, she carried on squeezing the most out of life. Her loss was unexpected. It was the morning of a planned surgery meant to give us more time, yet even in passing, she chose to be selfless one last time. To the scientists and doctors: know that you are not just studying anatomy—you’re learning from a woman who loved fiercely, worked endlessly, and gave everything, even after death. May you gain knowledge here and find her amazing spirit. Emma’s legacy lives on in us, in you, and in the science that moves forward because of her.

Friends & Family

Grandson: Niccolo Engbeck, Daughter: Rosario Marquez Alamillo, Daughter: Leticia Marquez Alamillo