Lt. Robert Hembree, 42, passed away suddenly on Monday, June 29, 2015. Robert will be remembered for so many things, especially his love for the Lord and others. A man of integrity, he was a family man with a wonderful sense of humor who put others first and served with passion. Robert was never afraid to stand up for these values instilled in him by his parents who loved him and raised him in a Christian home. He has served with the Knoxville Police Department since January 1997. He was also a member of the US Army Reserves, and a 2012 graduate of the 249th Session of FBI National Academy as well as recipient of Officer of the Month for KPD 3 separate occasions. He recently obtained his Master's degree, among his many other educational accolades.
Lt. Hembree is survived by his beloved wife of 7 years, "Mimi" and their precious dog Zoe; two sisters, Becky Calvert and Jennifer Stoll and their spouses; his parents, missionaries Ed and Carole Hembree; special family in Romania; and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters in blue.
The family will receive friends on Friday, July 3rd from 5-7 pm at Clear Springs Baptist Church, Corryton, with the Service to begin at 7 pm. Honorary Pallbearers are the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team, which he was a member of for 13 years. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the children's home in Romania, https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=6PDTADWC8CEXU . Gentry Griffey Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Hembree family and invites you to view and sign the guestbook below.
Judy Willis wrote on Jun 29, 2016:
"It's been one year. I didn't know Robert but so appreciated him being a good friend to my son, KPD Lieutenant Tony Willis. I want Robert's family to know that I think of him so very often and admire the wonderful man who left his mark in this world. I know your heart still hurts with his loss, but please take joy knowing someone who never met him was impacted by his life."
Dennis Bowman wrote on Jul 6, 2015:
"I was out of town and unable to attend the funeral service, and wanted to extend my thoughts and prayers to Robert's family. I worked with Robert at KPD before retiring in 2002. My fondest memory of Robert occurred shortly after he began his career at KPD. I was a sergeant in the Safety Education Unit, and we were having our first high-school Youth Conference overnight camp/conference at Brookhaven Farms.Robert and several other officers were chosen to serve as counsellors at the camp. We were given full access to the facilities at Brookhaven, and there happened to be several paddleboats moored on the ALGAE-COVERED pond on the site. Robert decided that he would be the one to manually launch the boats. So with a mighty heave, he launched the boat, and HIMSELF, into the chest deep sea of green. When he resurfaced, he truly looked like the Creature From The Black Lagoon !! This would not have been nearly as funny had it been someone other than Robert, because he was , undoubtedly the most spit-shined, squared-away officer in the department.this is just a small story that I wanted to share. Again , I wanted to offer my, and my families' condolences and prayers that God will wrap his arms around you and give you peace in this time of sorrow."
Britney Troutt wrote on Jul 6, 2015:
"Mimi I know all to well the experience of loss but not that of a spouse. I will be praying for you and the rest of the family. I'm so sorry. I love ya and if you ever need anything just let me know."
Red wrote on Jul 6, 2015:
"him while reading. We started to talk about it and he quickly asked if I knew Christ as my Savior. All this to say I wanted to share this with you to hopefully bless you with a memory I have of him. I do know Christ as my savior and that moment we had together has helped encourage me to be more open with my Christianity and to share the Gospel with others as Lt Hembree did. We will be praying for your family in this loss but are looking forward to seeing him again in heaven.
Thank you.
R.E.D."
Red wrote on Jul 6, 2015:
"Hembree Family,
You don't know me, but I knew Lt. Hembree. We met one night while he was on duty at a customer of mine watching over some valuables. I came walking in on him without knowing he was there. He quickly asked who I was and my purpose of being there in the middle of the night. After all was settled I looked at the table he had been sitting at and noticed his bible that I had interrupted"
G. Hoskins wrote on Jul 5, 2015:
"My name is Greg Hoskins and I've known Robert Hembree for 18 years. I respected him professionally, and loved him personally.
This is my favorite line from his obituary: "Robert was never afraid to stand up for the values instilled in him by his parents." Even when we first came to know him, we didn't have to wonder if Rob was a good kid - we just knew. And good kids (and good men) don't just happen - they're raised that way.
Robert was respectful to everyone he met, he always made a good impression, and his manners were beyond reproach. He was certainly the most polite person I've ever known - both in his own personality and in his chosen profession.
Over the years we watched him grow, maybe we helped him develop som tangible skills. But really, Rob was teaching US when he talked about honor & duty and things we should know -- cause above all else -- Robert Hembree was an honorable man.
As a leader and boss, he pushed those that were strong, and pulled those who were weak - but he cared equally about both. He always demanded more, and he never let you forget it.
Those who visit his alma mater (Bob Jones University in South Carolina) as I have, can learn that one of it's mottoes comes from the bible, and it reads (in part):
"That ye might walk |WORTHY | of the Lord... being fruitful in every good work..."
This man lived and conducted himself in a manner that |WAS| worthy of the Lord; he honored His name, and pleased His heart. He truly did 'walk that walk'...
I'm very proud of Robert, and I was lucky to know him."
Brandy Glover wrote on Jul 4, 2015:
"Mimi,
There are no words for the tremendous lost. I hope you find comfort in the bible verse.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
With love,
Brandy"
Wendy Bernheisel wrote on Jul 4, 2015:
"Mimi,
I am so sorry for your loss. I'm praying for you through this heartbreak. Praying the Lord will be the greatest Comforter to you at this time. I love you dearly.
~Wendy"
Ed Mitchell wrote on Jul 4, 2015:
"It was an honor to have served with him. He was always a great leader and example for other officers and supervisors. I'll be praying for his family. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Ed Mitchell"
Becky Cissell Franklin wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"Carole & Ed
I am sorry to hear about Bobby's passing. I can't imagine the loss you feel. I Know your love for our Lord is strong & He will see you through this difficult time. And with your faith you know he is now rejoicing with Jesus in heaven. Love you always. Becky"
Karen Hamilton wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"Mimi,
What a tremendous loss of such a special person. The love you and Robert shared was so special and inspiring. May God's love surround and sustain you.
Love you!"
Paul and Melissa Moore wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"Dear Brother Ed, Carole, Jenn, and all of the family members,
We are so sorry for your loss and the suddenness of it all. You are in our thoughts and prayers, and last night Pastor Zemeski specifically asked the church to pray for you.
Paul, Melissa, and Isaac Moore"
CAROL R GILMORE wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"MY HEART IS BREAKING FOR YOU,MIMI, AND ROBERT'S FAMILY; I STILL THINK THIS IS A NIGHTMARE AND I'LL AWAKEN AND EVERYTHING WILL BE AS IT WAS.
YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS CONSTANTLY AND I KNOW GOD HAS HIS LOVING ARMS WRAPPED AROUND YOU.
MAY THE PAIN PASS SOON AND THE JOY THAT YOU SHARED BRING YOU COMFORT AND PEACE.
LOVE YOU, CAROL"
Larry A. Fordham wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"Robert was a great friend of mine and he will be deeply missed by us all. Mimi, I never did get to meet you, his parents or his siblings but want you to know that I am sincerely sorry for your loss. Robert was honest, funny, dedicated, sincere, and every other Positive adjective that you could Ever say about him. One day in Church, I told Robert that I was going to sell one of my pistols so that I could buy a different one, and he busted out laughing at me and said, "Larry, how many times have I told you, that we BUY guns, but we Never SELL guns !!!!!!" I will never forget that famous line of Robert's. I am, and will continue, to Pray for all of you. Again, I am so sorry for your loss, and mine as well. God Bless, Larry Fordham 865-566-5664, larryfordham7@yahoo.com"
Stacy and LB Steele wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"We will always have good memories of Robert and are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. He was a good man."
Florin& Lidia Stanca wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"No words for what's happened. We are still shocked. We are praying for you Mimi. I know that God will direct your steps and He will show you the path until you will meet Robert again. Our church here in Costeiu are praying for you, Mimi and also for Ed & Carol Hembree and for Jenn Hembree Stoll"
Pastor C.O. Grinstead wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"We are so sorry to hear of the sudden passing of Lt. Hembree. Be assured that our church family is praying for all of your family during these difficult days."
David Bebout wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"First being a police officer brother it is hard to lose a friend. But to lose a fellow bomb technician brother makes it even harder. Robert is for sure walking the streets of heaven.
Matthew 5:9-Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of GOD.
God speed brother.
David Bebout
Metro Nashville Police Bomb Squad"
Michael Knight wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Our sincere condolences.
ATF Nashville field division"
Bill and Jean Adams wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"May the marvelous grace of a merciful God fill the void and ease the hurt left by the loss of Robert. Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. Please know that we who love you are praying for you!.....Bill and Jean Adams"
Jake and Amy Burkholder wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"Dear Hembree Family,
We are praying for all of you. May The Lord bless you and keep you and wrap His loving arms around you!! Praying for the peace of God that passeth all understanding!!
In Christ,
Jake and Amy (Boyle) Burkholder"
Karen Golden wrote on Jul 3, 2015:
"So sorry this happened to Robert. I am Michael McCarter's mother-in-law. Mike thought a lot of Robert since he was his boss. I will put the family in my prayers, So sorry for the whole family."
David Wilson (97A) wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"I graduated the Academy (Class 97A ) with Robert and had the privilege to work with Robert while employed at KPD. I am curently working with the Federal Government. Robert was a true professional and a great person. I have had the privilege to work with many professionals in Law Enforcement during my career with the Federal Government and Robert ranks at the top of that list. The Hembree family, KPD, the Law Enforcement community, and the City of Knoxville lost a true professional and a great man. I would like to apologize to the Hembree family and the KPD family because I will not be able to attend the funeral due to being out of town."
Debbie Lay wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"Sorry for your loss, met Robert at gym where I work. Always had smile and time to say hi to you. Will miss seeing his smiling face coming in the gym. May God hold the family in his hands and give them comfort during this time. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU. It was an honor to know Robert."
Tom Pfeifer wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"I always like to asked you about Robert. You would always burst with a smile with your love and pride for him. I got tears in my eyes. Tom Pfeifer"
Harry Michel wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"When we lost our son in Belgium you and your wife did all you could to be a help and encouragement to my wife and I and to our daughter-in-law. We have not forgotten your kindness. We will be praying for you and your wife. We did not know your son, but understand the depth of your loss, and that this is a long and hard journey. May our Lord carry you through this.
Harry Michel"
Angela Adams wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"This man was my neighbor for approximately a year and a half...
I remember him as a very kind man who kept his yard immaculate.
When I'd see him ride off on his Harley or in his KPD cruiser he'd always throw his hand up & wave.
While doing yard work or coming home from his shift, if he saw me outside he would walk over to ask if I needed anything.
We would chit chat about various things... he once told me he & his wife were mentors with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of East Tennessee.
Needless to say, as a single woman with a teenage daughter I felt very safe & content knowing that he lived right next door and "kept watch" so to speak.
This is so very shocking and sad that he lost his life at such a young age.
May you RIP Robert. Thank you for serving & protecting us twice in your very short life...as a military man & on the streets of Knoxville.
God, place your comforting hands on his wife, family and all those whom are mourning his passing. Give them comfort & peace. Amen. ??"
Brian Hellinger wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"I am so sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of getting to know Robert during our time together at the Knoxville Police Department Acadmey class 97A. Rest now my brother we have the watch and we will meet again.
Sgt. Brian Hellinger
Louisville Metro Police Department"
Dr. Tom Wallace wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"Ed, Carol, & Family.
God bless you folks at this sad time. I have been and will continue to pray for you as you adjust to this hard time in your life. What a blessing to know that Robert knew and loved the Lord and has gone to Heaven."
Josh Munday wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"I worked with Robert at the Knoxville Police Department, Robert was an exceptional individual and he will be missed by many. My families thoughts and prayers are with the Hembree family at this time. May the Good Lord comfort and ease your burden."
Ed and Mina Oglesby wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"We were only able to meet Robert one time; however, in those few short minutes we were so impressed by his presence--his strength of character and gracious words and demeanor. We grieve with his dear family but also rejoice that he is with the Lord and safe at Home."
James E. Bentley Jr wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"Bob and family will be in our thoughts and prayers during this time of grief for his family."
James E. Bentley Jr wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"I am so sorry to hear of the passing of such a fine man at such an early age. I had several conversations with Bob over the years concerning his role as a Police Bomb Tech, a calling not many would aspire to. The courtesy, professionalism, and pride in his approach to serving his community and his fellow law enforcement officers spoke volumes about his impeccable character and love for others. He will be sorely missed by his many friends and peers at all levels of law enforcement.
With sympathy.
James E.Bentley JR, SA FBI Bomb Tech,(Retired)."
Malcolm and Jan Gregory wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"Dear Friends, we are so sorry for your loss! We have a son that is 42 years old and cannot imagine what it would be like if the Lord took him. We do know He has promised His grace is sufficient to meet our needs. We have been praying for you and will continue to do so. May He comfort your hearts during this difficult time.
In Bolivia,
Malcolm and Jan Gregory"
Dolores and Dee Heidelberg wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love you guys."
Ginger Huskey wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"So sorry for your loss. I have worked with Lt. Hembree on several occasions here at the City and he was always very respectful and helpful. He will certainly be missed. Prayers to Lt. Hembree's family."
Pat Cissell wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"Carol, Ed and family;
I know how devastated you must be. I had only talked to Bobby a few times when he visited with your mom and knew he was a special person. You all are in my prayers.
God bless
Tricia"
Jeff & Joyce Alverson wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"Sufficient words fail us at a time like this. I personally know what it is like to lose a spouse, having lost Jenny, my wife of 33 years) but I cannot even begin to imagine the hurt of losing a child. Please know we love you and are praying for you. See you at the funeral home on Friday. God bless The Hembree Family.
Jeff & Joyce Alverson"
Sean and Traci Hejna wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"We are saddened by the sudden loss of our brother in blue. May God comfort you during this most difficult time. Many times Robert and I had conversations about our Lord and Savior. He is with Him now and forever more. Praying for you!"
John & Sandy Bailes wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"Ed & Carol & family,
We are praying for you in the loss of your son and that the Lord will comfort you and give you peace at this time. I know you were proud of his service for others and his love for the Lord. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not to thine own understanding, in all thy way acknowledge HIM and HE shall direct your path." Prov. 3:5-6 We love you.
John & Sandy Bailes (BIMI)"
Tim Crumley wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"We extend our heartfelt love and prayers to Mihaela and the entire family. Robert will be truly missed...a kindhearted neighbor and friend.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Tim and Kelly"
LT Eddie Helton wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"We are so sorry for the loss of our Brother in Blue. The family will be in our prayers.
Lt. Eddie Helton and C Shift
Sevierville Police Dept."
Tony Karnes wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"I'm going to miss you my friend."
ANGELA BROWN wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"So sorry for your loss - the loss of a wonderful man.
He will be sadly missed. My sympathies and prayers to you all..."
Jim and Becky White wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"Our prayers are with your family. Jim and Becky White missionary to gypsies in Germany."
George & Jane Corniciuc wrote on Jul 2, 2015:
"We are honoured to have know Robert Hembree. His wife Mimi is like a daughter to us. We are praying for Mimi and the family."
R. Embler wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Officer Hembree exemplified a true civil servant as a law enforcement officer. Our loss is heaven's gain."
sheila Ray wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Thank you for your service .I pray for you and your family."
John Duty (KPD Ret.) wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"With deepest sympathy and prayers for Bob and his family. Thanks for all you have done, and for your courage and commitment."
Becky Ownby wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Lt. Hembree was always so nice to me. I got to work with him a few times while I was on the KPD Volunteer Corp. He was/is respected by everyone! My heart hurts for his family...both natural and his brothers and sisters in blue. Along with friends and neighbors who are feeling such a loss. May God wrap His mighty arms around each of you and give you the comfort that only He can. God Bless you. Thank You, Lt. Hembree for all you have done. Welcome to your Heavenly home, Sir!!!"
Lugene Bearden wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"I didn't know Lt Hembree but I am grateful for his service and my prayers for his family and friends to receive comfort for our Lord Jesus Christ."
Victor Agosto wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"RIP Brother. Prayers for family, friends and coworkers."
Dan Brock wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Praying for his entire family, he will missed but not forgotten, he was a good police officer, and a great person to know ."
Pastor & Mrs. Jim Russell wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Romans 8:18 - For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
We are praying for each one of you at this difficult time. May the Lord's Hand guide you; may His Spirit comfort you, and give you peace. Most of all,may the Lord be glorified and draw you closer to His Side! We love you in Christ!
Your Temple Baptist Church family, Washington, IN"
Mary Bramer wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"R.I.P Thank you for service.Prayers for the family"
Kim Cate wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Thoughts and prayers go out to the family."
Lisa Colllins wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"I knew Robert when I worked for the credit union. He was a wonderful officer and a great christian. I am so sorry for your loss. God bless you. You are in my thoughts and prayers."
Billie J. Hembree wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"So sorry for your loss thoughts and prayers in the coming days R.I.P"
Laura Mullins wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"It was always a pleasure to speak with Robert. His passion for life and his beliefs was very evident. I am praying for God's peace for the family. Robert will be missed."
Dixie Malach wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"You will be Greatly Missed LT. My heart goes out to your family, your friends, and your blue family. I will miss your voice. Rest in Peace Sir, Your brothers and sisters on blue have the watch from here."
Carol Burris Boyd wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"I am so sorry to hear of Bobby's untimely passing. I went to hair dresser school with his mother Carole Crays Hembree and we were good friends. RIP Bobby Hembree, servant of God and mankind."
Don and Mary Sue Hembree wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"It breaks our hearts to find we've lost you. It's only in the past few years that we've developed a grown up relationship with you, and were so proud of the man that you've become. Only God knows the reason why he needed you right now. We'll never forget you.
Your Loving, Uncle Don and Aunt Mary Sue"
Ray & Rhonda Offenbacher wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Prayers for healing"
Ray & Rhonda Offenbacher wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Prayers for all"
Janet Reinholz wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"I did not know Lt. Hembree myself, but he meant a lot to a friend of mine. After reading his obituary, I can see why. To his family & friends: I know you miss him dearly. What a dedicated brother in Christ!! He made the world a better place in his short life. Well done, God's faithful servant. It will be an honor to meet you when Jesus calls me home. With gratitude for you & prayers for your loved ones, I express my condolences.
Psalm 23"
Mike Keller wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Robert was a good man, good cop, and made a positive impact on all who knew him. He will be missed by family, friends, and brothers and sisters in blue. Rest easy, your time here is over, but only beginning in Heaven."
Sue Bragg wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"The world was a better place because Robert was here. I will continue to pray for all who loved him."
Geri Heidel wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"My prayers are with you. ( from Janice Allen sister). Geri and Jim Heidel"
Crystal wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Mimi & Family,
I know there are no words to express your loss. Please know that my thoughts & prayers are with you through this time in your lives! Mimi, I love you & you will always hold a special place in my thoughts & heart!
Crystal"
Jack Lakin wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Very few people that I know, are as good of a man, than this man. You made us better."
Ashley & Kimberly Coulter wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Robert, was great neighbor and a true friend that we will miss greatly. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family."
Starr Perrin wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Robert was my brother in blue, I'm an Officer at KPD. God needed him for a special assignment and his time on earth was served. God keep you in his arms in this time of need and grant you peace. Robert is at rest in heaven. God Bless You."
Debra Bartlett Williford wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"So sorry for your loss. We will be praying that God will give you peace and understanding during this difficult time. We love you all."
Dianne Martin wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"You have my deepest sympathy on your loss of a wonderful son. I can still remember him as a little boy, and I'm so proud of the man he became. You are all in my thoughts and prayers for peace, comfort and understanding."
Melissa Mulkey wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"To a dear friend that I truly enjoyed working with, and the little things that always come to mind, Robert was always smiling and saying hello, always kind .... Thank you for your friendship see you in heaven....GODSPEED MY FRIEND GO REST HIGH ON THAT MTN SIR YOUR WORK ON HERE IS DONE!!"
Dan Bartlett wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Words can't express how heartbroken we are because your loss. We love you and will continue to pray for God's strength and His daily comfort in your hearts.
In Christian love,
Dan and Connie Bartlett
!! Cor, 1:3"
WhitneyTurner Baker wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"JENN,and Family,
Words cannot express my deepest sympathy for you all. We don't understand why God allowed this to happen, but we can be sure that he will see you all through, giving you peace and comfort.
Many times, God uses these difficult times in our lives to strengthen our faith, and love for each other, in order that we might be a testimony to others in the future, who are going through times of pain and loss.
I never met your Brother Jenn, but know that he honored God, Ministry, and family with his life.
please feel free to call me anytime. 616-855-1673. Please leave a message if i am not here. I am usually here ,and up very late. Love and prayers, Whitney
]"
Betty Pike wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Mimi, I have no words. This simply 'took my breath away'. I can't imagine how you are feeling right now, dear one. But you have wonderful memories that will last you for a life time. I feel honored to have you and Robert and Zoe in my life."
Ben and Lora Pence wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"We love you Mimi!"
Michael and Audra Eaton wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Mimi,
Audra and I will be praying God gives you grace and comfort during this tough time. It was a privilege to know Robert and I am so glad for his Christian testimony.
Love you,
Michael and Audra Eaton"
Bob & Patsy Green wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"We never had the privilege of meeting Lt. Hembree but know and love his dear parents. We pray that God will surround each of you with His sustaining grace and give strength and peace. You are in our continual thoughts and prayers. Bob & Patsy Green (BIMI)"
Dan Sehested wrote on Jul 1, 2015:
"Ed, Carole, Mimi,
We are so sorry for your sudden loss. We know that God's grace will sustain you but the hurt is still real and deep. We have been and will be praying for you all.
Dan and Lyn"