Emmet Milward entered the family business in 1926 and by 1942 had played an instrumental role in completing a comprehensive expansion and rehabilitation of the mortuary at 159 North Broadway. Recognizing Lexington’s growth, Emmet supervised construction of a second mortuary in 1957. Located at 391 Southland Drive, the funeral home remains in service today along with the traditional downtown location. There is also the newest, contemporary location Milward - Man o' War at 1509 Trent Blvd.

Emmet was President of the National Selected Morticians in 1936 and was Secretary of the Kentucky State Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers from 1936 to 1948. He was also involved with other businesses, serving as Director of Kentucky Utilities for 30 years and the First Security National Bank and Trust Company for more than 25 years.

His community involvement knew no bounds. He served as Director of the Blue Grass Automobile Club for 42 years, twice serving as its President. When he was elected President of the Lexington Chamber of Commerce, he was the youngest man ever so honored. Likewise, he was the youngest potentate to serve Oleika Shrine Temple at the age of 32, and he served as the Master of Lexington Lodge No. 1, F. & A.M. in 1935. He was honored in receiving the Lexington Optimist Cup in 1936 for outstanding service to the community.