Emily D. "Tootsie" Rachas

Emily D. Rachas, nee Huighe, 93, went to spend Christmas with John on December 22, 2025. Dear wife of the late John Rachas, daughter of the late Joseph and Alberta, nee Becker, Huighe, loving mother of Barbara (Paul) Shaver, Thomas (Mary Ann, nee Curtin) Rachas, and Mary Ann Rachas, dearest grandmother of, Joshua (Nicole) Shaver, Katie (Jason) Emerick, Matthew (Lauren) Shaver, Anna (David Morin) Shaver, Ben Shaver, Nick (Stephanie) Rachas, Sam (Courtney) Rachas, and Kyle Rachas, cherished great grandmother of Bella, Tucker, Logan, Peyton, Hunter, Penelope, Evangeline, Izzy, Jasper, Vivienne, Norah, John “Jack”, Edie, and Claire. Emily was also a dear sister, sister-in-law, and aunt.

Emily, also known as” Tootsie,” to many family members, was full of life and was always good for a good prank. She was an accomplished baker well known for her famous banana bread and baking cookies with her family, especially at Christmas time. Emily was a supportive mother, always involved in her children’s activities. Later, she took an active role in caring for her grandchildren and being involved in their lives as well. She enjoyed music, especially the classic crooners and her family enjoyed music and dancing in her household. Those who knew her will truly miss her sense of humor, colorful presence, and tasty baked goods.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Bethesda Southgate and Bethesda Hospice for their excellent, respectful and dignified care during Emily's time with them.

Memorials are appreciated in lieu of flowers to St. Anthony of Padua Food Pantry and The Bethesda Foundation in support of Bethesda Hospice.

Visitation will be held from 5-8 pm of Monday, January 5, 2026, at John L. Ziegenhein and Sons Funeral Home, 7027 Gravois Ave, St. Louis, MO 63116. Funeral services will be held at 9:30 am, Tuesday, January 6, 2026, also at the funeral home. Interment in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.