Honoring the Memory of Emily Steinhoff James
Shining a Light on Her Life, Her Loss, and the Fight for Justice
Emily was vibrant, compassionate, and full of life. She brought warmth and joy to those around her and was active in the Raleigh, NC community. A resident of Garner, she was known for her kindness, strength, and the way she uplifted others. On March 17, 2024, her life was tragically taken in Smithfield, NC.
As the trial of Dorian Thomas begins on April 14, 2025, in Johnston County, this site exists to honor Emily’s memory, share updates on the case, and bring together those who continue to stand with her in the pursuit of justice. Her voice deserves to be heard, and her life remembered—not for the tragedy that occurred, but for the light she brought into the world.
Learn more about the ongoing case here.
One Year Later, We Stand for Emily
Emily’s Journey: Service, Celebration, and Motherhood
Emily Steinhoff James was the kind of person who poured her heart into everything she did. She served her country as an Army veteran, fought for fairness as a public defender, and carried her deep sense of justice through every part of her life. After earning her law degree from UNC Chapel Hill, she began her career in South Dakota, advocating for those who needed a voice. But family was everything to her, and she eventually returned to North Carolina to be closer to the people she loved while continuing to make a difference.
Emily’s impact wasn’t just in the courtroom. She was a creative force, lighting up the Raleigh arts community as a performer and assistant director at Raleigh Little Theatre. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, she had a way of bringing people together and leaving a lasting impression.
But more than anything, Emily was about love—fierce, unwavering love. Her young son has spent the past year without the mother who was his biggest source of love and support, the person who would have been his fiercest advocate and guiding light. Life without her has been unimaginably hard, and the void she left behind is something no child should have to endure.
She was also a role model to so many—always there to offer advice, lend a hand, or cheer them on when they needed it most. The impact she had on their lives won’t be forgotten.
Still, the love she gave hasn’t gone anywhere. It’s carried forward by the people she touched—the ones who will always remember her kindness, strength, and compassion. Her impact doesn’t end here.
We honor Emily by living the way she did: with love, empathy, and a fierce commitment to what’s right.
Learn more about Emily’s life and story here.
Stand with us as we continue her mission and celebrate the values she embodied.
Our lives are better because of Emily.
She left an unforgettable impression on everyone she met.
Her sudden and tragic passing has left a deep void.
Yet, the impact she made continues to resonate in the lives she touched, reminding us of the strength found in love, connection and coming together to honor her memory.
Emily Steinhoff James, proudly serving in the U.S. Army, a testament to her courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to helping others.
Emily crowned winner at Raleigh Little Theatre’s 2020 Divas! competition, honoring her talent and commitment to supporting the arts.
Emily was glowing with joy during her pregnancy, embracing the journey to motherhood.
In honoring her memory, your support through the GoFundMe campaign provides essential help to her family during this time of profound loss, especially for her young son, who has special needs. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference and helps carry Emily’s spirit and legacy forward.
A glimpse into the life of Emily Steinhoff James, whose beauty radiated inside and out.
Emily’s love for the arts was evident in her work with Raleigh Little Theatre, where she participated in productions, served as an assistant stage manager, and was crowned RLT Diva in 2020. Her passion for theatre brought joy to many and showcased her incredible talents. Learn more about her involvement here.
Emily’s life was meaningful, and her story will live on. Her legacy deserves to be honored with integrity and truth. We are committed to keeping her memory alive, sharing her story, and supporting the pursuit of justice in her name. If you have anything you would like to contribute or share, please contact us at standwithemily@gmail.com
