John Hembrough Passing

John Hembrough LCpl H&S 106’s from Aug ’68 – Feb ’69

He passed away on 21 Oct 2024 (Oct 8, 1948 – Oct 21 2024)

Funeral will be November 2, visitation is from 10-12 with ceremony to follow at the Williamson Funeral Home – 1405 Lincoln Ave., Jacksonville, IL 62650

Obitutary from the Funeral Home & may also be found here:

John Allen Hembrough, 76, of Jacksonville, died Monday, October 21, 2024, at his residence. He was born October 8, 1948, in Jacksonville, the son of Harold J. and Geraldine Mae Vinyard Hembrough.

John is survived by his daughter, Lisa Hembrough of Jacksonville; one grandson, Joseph Hembrough, two great-grandchildren, one sister, Susie Zeller of Jacksonville, one half-sister, June Wyatt of Memphis, Tennessee, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one sister, Betty Crain, and four brothers, Hal, Wayne, Tom and Paul (surviving wife, Sandra of Virden).

John was a 1966 graduate of Jacksonville High School and began working with GTE immediately after. He was drafted into the United States Marine Corps in April of 1968 and served during the Vietnam War on the DMZ and was assigned to the 2nd Battalion 4th Marines, “The Magnificent Bastards”, of which he was very proud to have served with. He was wounded in battle on Fire Base Russel on February 25 of 1969. John was awarded the Purple Heart and Silver Star, the third highest ranking medal for his service to his country.

He received an Honorable Discharge in July of 1969.

John devoted his life to helping others in need, both veterans and civilians. He was former commander of American Legion Post 279 in Jacksonville and had served as commander for the 20th District of American Legion. His work was instrumental in making sure numerous veterans received their full benefits when needed. He orchestrated countless benefits and events, all to help others. John loved Alabama football and the Kansas City Chiefs, but above all, he cherished his family.

A funeral service will be held at 12 Noon on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Williamson Funeral Home in Jacksonville, with burial and military honors to follow at Asbury Cemetery. The family will meet friends from 10 a.m. until the time-of-service Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to Asbury Cemetery, PAWS, or the veteran’s organization of the donors’ choice. Condolences may be left online.

Cards of condolences can be sent to his house (for next of kin):
303 Westwinds Drive
Jacksonville, Illinois 62650

AND/OR may be left on the funeral home Tribute Book here