Shela Bembry

In Loving Memory of Mrs. Shela Bembry, born on October 8, 1955, went home to be with the Lord on May 24, 2026, at 70 years old, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a proud and deeply devoted grandmother.

Shela grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan where she completed her education. She also attended Western Michigan University. She later moved to Detroit to work for the state of Michigan. During that time, she surrendered her life to Christ and attended St. Claire Shores Assemblies of God.

She transferred jobs where she worked in Lansing, Michigan and met her soulmate and forever friend. They moved to Europe for several years with the Military, and when they moved back to the states, they settled down in Warner Robbins, Georgia. They became members of First Assembly of God and served there for 7 years. Shela sang solos and sang in the choir there.

They adopted 2 children in Warner Robbins and named them Lena and Stanley Paul. She worked in early childhood education where her children attended preschool. They then moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee where they became members of Calvary Assembly of God now known as Freedom Church. She sang solos there, sang in the choir and directed the choir. Shela worked in admissions at UTC, financial aide at Tennessee Temple University and human resources at ABM Industries.

Shela had a voice like no other! Some would say if you listened to Sandi Patty, you were listening to Shela sing. Her voice was beautiful. She could hit the highest and longest notes. Back in the day she recorded her own country song.

She had a heart for caring for others and found joy in making sure her family was always provided for. Whether it was through the simple act of shopping for things her loved ones needed or showing up in the ways that mattered most, she expressed her love through giving. If you mentioned you’re out of something or need to get something soon, it would be on your doorstep the next day.

Being a mother & grandmother was one of her greatest joys. She took immense pride in her children and grandson, Micah, and never missed a moment to support, celebrate, and love them. She will be remembered for her cooking, her kindness, her strength, and the way she made those around her feel cared for and valued. Her love leaves a legacy that will continue to live on in her family.

She made the BEST taco bar. We literally did a taco bar for almost every event or get together we threw. You couldn’t compete with her hot wings, ribs with her dads secret sauce, baked mac and cheese, tuna salad and her dressing that went with the turkey or Cornish hens could never be forgotten.

She is survived by her husband, Stanley W. Bembry; her children, Lena Leath (Michael) and Paul Bembry; her beloved grandson Micah Leath; sister, Sharon Williams; and a host of family and loved ones who will cherish her memory forever.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ike & Mary Livingston; and her sister Kathy Austin.

Though she will be deeply missed, we hold onto the promise that this is not goodbye forever, but we will see her again. Her love will remain in our hearts always.

While our hearts are heavy, we find peace in knowing she is now in the presence of the Lord—whole, healed, and free from pain.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”

- Matthew 25:23

A Visitation for Shela will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services Franklin-Strickland Chapel, 1724 McCallie Avenue, Chattanooga, TN, 37404.

A Celebration of Life Service will immediately follow at 1:00 pm with Pastor Nathan Garmany officiating.

Burial will take place on Monday, June 1, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to a ministry she cared about deeply— Transformation Project in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Arrangements entrusted to Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services Franklin-Strickland Chapel, 1724 McCallie Avenue, Chattanooga, TN, 37404, 423-265-4414.

Please visit our website to share your favorite memories of Shela: www.advantagefranklin-strickland.com