Thomas Edward Hembree, passed away July 7th, 2026. Tom was born on Sept. 2, 1943, in Shawnee, OK to Walker Wiley Hembree and Verna May (Higgins) Hembree .
On Dec. 1, 1973, he married Barbara Gayle (Krenzel) Hembree. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, country music, and plenty of laughter. They were entrepreneurs that made their mark on Shawnee with Hembree Auto Sales and many locations of Pig Rib Barbecue.His most treasured relationship outside of the home was the lifelong friendship of more than 70 years that he shared with Robert and Marty Pettyjohn.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara; his children, Craig and Lori Sutton, Robin and Renee Hembree, Renae and Chris Cain, Ricky Hembree, and Rachelle and Kyle Douglas; and his 10 grandchildren. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whom he loved like family.
Funeral Services were held July 10, 2026, at Highland Church of Christ in Tecumseh, OK with Paul Crouch officiating. Burial followed at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.
