Chaplain Joel Walter Embry, born in Lakeland, Florida on September 23, 1928 to Wesley Dunn Embry and Alsatian Freedom Churchwell Embry. He was the grandson of the late Rev. NW Churchwell. He died on April 22, 2012 at 4 p.m., his passing was peaceful. His death was caused by a fall, he was taking blood thinner and the fall resulted in blood on the brain.
He lived in Lakeland until he graduated from Lakeland High School in in 1947. He was awarded a scholarship to University of Kentucky under Coach "Bear" Bryant for football. He also received a contract to play pro baseball as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox's. He later joined the U. S. Air Force where he met his bride of sixty one years, Jo Ann Redneck Embry. They were married in San Antonio, Texas in February 16, 1951. After serving four years in the Air Force he returned to Lakeland to attend Florida Southern College where he graduated in 1954. Joel was a claims agent for State Farm in Orlando when he received the call into the ministry. Joel attended Asbury Seminary and graduated in 1966 and was then was ordained Elder into the Florida Annual Conference 1967. He served several churches in the AC and also in the NC. He served nine appointments after his retirement from the Veterans Administration in 1988. (Please see AC/1994 and NC journals for appointments listings).After being commissioned Captain, he served as Hospital Chaplain in the Army(24 years) and in the VA(26 years). He also did a tour in Viet Nan from 1968-69. He retired LTV. Colonel Joel was a great corniest, sportsman, preacher, father, husband, and above all a Soul Winner for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
They have three children, Rev. Joel Wesley Embry (1-21-1952) who is now serving as an Elder in the North Georgia Conference, and two daughters Alsatian Mae Embryo Frye (4-23-1956) and Rebecca Jo Embry Graham (5-14-1968). He is also survived by five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Our family laid his remains in Oak Hill Cemetery in Lakeland as were his request. (Both parents and other family members rest there too). Son Rev. Joel Wesley presided at the graveside service. Wife Jo Ann, daughters, Alsatian and Rebecca Jo assisted with songs, scripture, and meditations.
Well done good and faithful servant, you have served those in need and your God.
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