Elmer Earl Hemphill, Jr.

Elmer Earl Hemphill, Jr., 75, of Lenexa, Kansas, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025. He was born on April 3, 1949, in Nowata, Oklahoma, to Elmer and Anita (Jobe) Hemphill.

Elmer, also known as Earl or Junior to many, was born in Nowata, Oklahoma, and later moved to Chanute, Kansas, during his teenage years. He attended Chanute High School and graduated in May 1967. In October of that same year, Elmer enlisted in the Marine Corps and was deployed to Vietnam. He served his country honorably until 1969, when he was discharged. During his service, he was awarded several honors, including a Bronze Star Medal with a combat “V” for his courageous actions in Vietnam.

After leaving the military, Elmer was introduced to Jill by mutual friends in early 1970. They often described their connection as love at first sight, a love that was deep and unwavering. On December 19, 1970, Elmer and Jill married, beginning a beautiful life together. They were blessed with their first son, Matthew Alan, on May 22, 1979, and their second son, Adam Troy, on January 5, 1981.

Elmer dedicated over 30 years to working for the railroad. After retiring, he enjoyed driving horse carriages at the Plaza, traveling with his wife, and cherishing time with family and friends. He will always be remembered for the deep love he had for those around him. Elmer enjoyed reconnecting with old friends in Chanute and sharing stories of the past. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome.

We are forever grateful for Elmer’s warm smile and the countless memories he gave us. He will be deeply missed.

Elmer is survived by his sons, Adam Hemphill and Matt Hemphill; his granddaughters, Katelin Hemphill and Sondra Hemphill; and many other loving friends and family members.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy Jill Hemphill; his father, Elmer Earl Hemphill, Sr.; his birth mother, Lizzy Thomason; his step-mother, Anita Hemphill; his sisters, Linda Bass and Pamela Hemphill.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in Elmer’s memory be made to K9s for Warriors.

The family will receive guests for a visitation from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Penwell-Gabel’s Olathe Chapel. The funeral service will follow at 10:00 a.m., with burial at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens. A celebration of life will be held at Zarda’s Bar-B-Q in Lenexa at noon. All who loved Earl are welcome.