Thomas "Tom" Edward Hembree

In Loving Memory of Thomas Edward Hembree

Thomas Edward Hembree, 82, of Tecumseh, Oklahoma, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on July 7th, 2026. Born on September 2, 1943, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, Tom spent most of his life in Tecumseh, where he became known for his humor, connection to people he loved, and his iconic, perfect hair.

Tom was the youngest of six children born to Walker Wiley Hembree and Verna May (Higgins) Hembree.

On December 1, 1973, he married the love of his life, 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. Tom spent most of his career in the oil and gas industry. During his working days, he packed a cooler every morning and never missed his daily stop at Hardesty Grocery on his way to check wells.

A devoted member of Highland Church of Christ and later Northridge Church of Christ, Tom served others by leading the church food pantry for many years. He faithfully led his family in prayer. He loved fishing—even if the fish didn't always love him back—garage sales, auctions, country music, silly dance moves, playing guitar by ear, smoking his pipe, and making his famous pancakes. Whether it was a spirited game of Monopoly or a backyard cornhole tournament, he played to win—and usually let everyone know when he did. His children will forever remember his deep sigh of relief followed by the sound of his keys hitting the counter when he came home. He rarely missed a sporting event, cheering loudly from the stands alongside his friend Roger Pitts. He kept the boys basketball team stocked with Bubblicious gum for game time. 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.

Tom helped raise not only his own children but many nieces, nephews, and friends of his kids who always knew they were welcome in his home. He loved his dogs, adored his family, and had a special soft spot for his beloved "Tootie Girl."

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 ten grandchildren. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whom he loved like family.

Tom's greatest legacy is the joy he brought to others. He leaves behind a family who laughs because of him, loves because of him, and will forever remember a man who lived to make people smile. If Heaven has dance floors, fishing holes, auctions, and pancake breakfasts, there's no doubt Tom is already making everyone feel at home.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday July 9, 2026, at Cooper Funeral Home, with family gathering to greet friends and loved ones from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday July 10, 2026, at Highland Church of Christ in Tecumseh, Oklahoma with Paul Crouch officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.