They seem to know Emily well, but I have the impression that they only knew what she wanted them to know. They remember important details that appear to be at the root of Emily's mental illness. They mention that she would teach art to children. They stopped going there because the new generations were not obliged to go and learn from her. This was a factor that led her to isolate herself. They are offended by his entitlement, but seem to understand it. They remember that his father was controlling. After her death, they considered her more human. She was alone and had become poor. I imagine Emily as a lonely woman, with no sense of direction. She was never able to establish a true, lasting relationship during her lifetime. In death she will obtain that peace she has sought throughout her life.