James L. Hembree

James L. Hembree
'Jim'
Mr. Hembree, of Matthews, died Saturday morning, August 13, 2005, at his residence.
James was born January 27, 1942 in Gaston County. He graduated from North Mecklenburg High School, after which he entered the military service. After discharge as a Sergeant, James spent the next 21 years with Eastern Air Lines, a job that he loved until he retired. Then James went to work for the State of North Carolina, under DMV picking up non insurance tags and drivers licenses. He then bought C and C Service Station in Monroe, growing from three bays to six bays, winning many awards from the great folks of Monroe. In 2002, James won a national leadership award from Washington, DC. He and his wife Jan were invited to dinner with President George Bush. In 2004 he again won Business Man of the Year, but was unable to go back to Washington due to his health.
James was a member of Benton Heights Presbyterian Church. He said that this was the best, most loving church he had ever attended.
The family would like to thank the following and their staff for the loving care until the end: Dr. Kreshon, Dr. Brouse, Dr. Stevens and Dr. Hoover.
A service to celebrate the life of Jim will be 11:00 AM Monday, August 15, at Benton Heights Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Paul Saleeby officiating. Entombment will follow in Forest Lawn East. Visitation will be Sunday evening from 6:00 until 9:00 PM at the McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe.
Survivors include his wonderful wife of 43 years, Jan Stroud Hembree of the home; one daughter, Teresa Hembree of Indian Trail, NC; one son, James Cameron 'Cam' Hembree and his wife, Paige, of Simpsonville, NC; five grandchildren, Erin, Brandon, Patrick, Cayleigh and Samantha, all of Indian Trail, NC.
Memorials may be made to Benton Heights Presbyterian Church Building Fund, 2701 Concord Hwy. Monroe, NC 28110.
McEwen Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Monroe is serving the family of Mr. Hembree.