Emma Joe

Joe died Jan. 30, 2010, in Querino Canyon. She was born Sept. 28, 1919, in Querino Canyon, into the Na'teezhi Dine 'Tacheenie People Clan for the Towering House People Clan. Joe was a traditional rug weaver and dyed her own wool from plants. She was a homemaker, livestock owner and participated in traditional ceremonies, did beadwork, made sash belts and basket weaving. She was once a supervisor to teach others in the community to learn to weave rugs and sash belts. Survivors include her sons, Art Ben Watchman of Houck, Jr. Joe of Mesa; daughter, Char James of Houck; brother, Benjamin Murphy of Houck; 23 grandchildren; 67 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchild. Joe was preceded in death by her parents, Pat and Edith Murphy; son, James Watchman Sr.; brothers, Tom Murphy, George Murphy, Sam Murphy, Walter Cronemyer, Donald Murphy; sisters, Annie Apache, Margaret Custer, Charlie Watchman, Tom K. Joe. Pallbearers will be Ardell Watchman, Gary Custer, Jr. Joe, Artremos Watchman, Leland Lashie, Brandon Shorty. Arrangements are entrusted to: Cope Memorial Chapel 1830 Barbara Ave. Gallup, New Mexico 505-722-6671