William "Jerry" Hembree, 82, of Shelby, North Carolina, passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones at 12:03 AM, Sunday, June 18, 2023, at Atrium Health Cleveland Hospital.

Jerry was born November 28, 1940, to the late John Basil and Margaret Rosa-Lucille Hembree. He was the only son of four children: Late Mary Elizabeth "Beth" Rodriquez, Carol Annette Tipton (80) of Houston, TX, and Margaret Diane Holt (78), of Easley, SC.

Jerry enlisted into the United States Marine Corps at a very young age and served his country honorably for over 22 years. His love, commitment, and loyalty for his country, friends, and those who he called family was known to all. He was dedicated to hard work and providing for his family. After retirement from the United States Marine Corps, he pursued a career within the electrical field and retired after a successful and fulfilling 20+ years.

He is survived by his spouse Linda Hembree (75), Shelby, NC and his two younger sisters: Carol A. Tipton (80) of Houston, TX and Margaret D. Holt (78) of Easley, SC; three children: Jamie R. Hembree of Greenville, SC, Mr. William J. Hembree (Sabrina) of Germany, and Mr. John P. Hembree (Erica) of Easley, SC; and two stepchildren: Mr. James Gainey (Susan) of Shelby, NC and Ms. Hope Deese of Cheraw, SC. He was also dearly loved by his seven beautiful grandchildren: Gabrielle Lewis, Jasmine Lewis, Johanna Hembree, Olivia Hembree, Peter Hembree, Norah Hembree, and Charlotte Hembree. Two of his greatest companions were his dogs Gertie and Buddy.

In lieu of an open visitation, the family will celebrate his life privately. If desired, memorials or donations are requested to be made in Jerry's honor to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation or the Folded Flag Foundation to honor his life of service.

Aquamation services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center.

www.claybarnette.com