Emily Ann Cope

Emily Murphy Cope, 42, of York, Pennsylvania, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, leaving behind a cherished community of family, friends, students and colleagues. Emily’s time with us was far too brief, but the warmth of her kindness and the depth of her intellect will continue to shine in the lives she touched.

A distinguished scholar, Emily earned degrees from Moody Bible Institute and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She dedicated her career to the study and teaching of rhetoric and writing at York College of Pennsylvania, shaping the minds of countless students with her passion and knowledge. Emily exemplified what it means to be an effective and engaging college professor, caring about the students and faculty she mentored as whole people.  She sent postcards to her students during COVID lockdown, encouraged her seniors to spend time outside or care for themselves, organized get togethers outside of class to help students get to know one another, and met one-on-one with new faculty to check-in and help them best support students.  Emily published several high-profile articles and book chapters; her professional work can be viewed on her website, https://emilymurphycope.weebly.com/ .

Emily loved deeply, and none more than her beloved sons. A steadfast friend, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to uplifting others, sharing her time, talent, and unwavering support with all who needed her. She is survived by her husband, Aaron; sons, Miles and Max; parents, Timothy and Susan; sisters, Megan (Matt) and Martha (Jesse); grandmother, Margaret, and niece, Vivian.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 4, at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of York, 225 E. Market Street, York, Pennsylvania, 17403.Click here to watch the live stream. https://www.youtube.com/@firstpresbyterianchurchofy8265/streams .

In lieu of flowers, donations in Emily’s honor may be made to the Caring Ministry of First Presbyterian Church York; https://caringministryfpc.org/get-involved or the Cope Boys Memorial Fund. To donate to the Cope Boys Memorial Fund, make checks payable to “Cope Boys Memorial Fund” and send to First National Bank, 2100 York Crossing Dr., York, PA 17408. In person cash or check donations can be made at any branch of First National Bank.