Orville Lee Hemphill

Orville Lee Hemphill of Goodyear, Arizona passed away February 8, 2014. He was born in Partridge, Kansas on June 23, 1919 but grew up in Pretty Prairie, Kansas. His father died when he was four years old and his older brother Byron Opdyke became the father figure in his life. He was married to Geraldine (Gerry) on February 19, 1944. They met at a dance in Pasadena, California and had been together for seventy years. In 1939 Lee enlisted in the Kansas National Guard. He was in the 130th Field Artillery in Hutchinson, Kansas. By executive order of our President on November 30, 1940, the guard became a part of the regular U. S. Army. He served in the European Theater and was discharged at the end of the war. Soon after, he enlisted in the Air Force. The family moved a few times which included a tour in Japan. Our last move was to Phoenix which became home to one and all. He retired from the Air Force and worked a few years in the Des Section of the State of Arizona retiring at the age of sixty. Lee enjoyed softball and was an avid pitcher. He later spent time in Little League for children. He was also an avid bowler until he was ninety years old. The love of his life was Gerry and his family. Lee is preceded in death by his middle son Steven Barry Hemphill who passed away in 1972. He is survived by his wife Gerry, daughter Linda Lee Weaver of Casa Grande, AZ, two sons Michael Joseph Hemphill of Los Angeles, CA and Russell David Hemphill of Wenatchee, WA, seven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren plus a new little boy due to be born this month. He lived a full life and will be missed by his family and friends. Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM, February 19, 2014, at The Church at Litchfield Park, 300 N Old Litchfield Rd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340. Contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project would be appreciated, 4150 N Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, (480)-946-0663. Arrangements under the direction of A.L. Moore-Grimshaw Bethany Chapel, Phoenix, AZ www.almoore-grimshaw.com