Joseph Charles HEMBROOKE Jr.

I am so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences extend to you and your family. To Mr. Joseph C. Hembrooke and his wife, Mrs. Cheetah M. Hembrooke, thank you very much for the many wonderful memories, especially when I competed in the America's National Pageants. I was Maine's Favorite Pre-teen and Maine's Favorite Teenager back in 1991. You were both the national directors for the Pageants. Thank you very much. I had such a great time. I really appreciated it very much.

Joe, may you forever Rest in Peace.

Sincerely,
Tahsha Louise Sweet

(...from FaceBook....)
How beautiful! I met someone on Friday from the Ocoee Little League-Tina, who shared a fond memory of honoring Joe for his service along with a bottle of coke. I shared his love for Arby's Roast Beef Sandwiches. I imagined Joe smiling down upon us. It is so lovely that he is remembered for his service and ability to help others feel special and loved.

I purchased my Christmas cards when they first appeared this past summer so I could get the perfect card for each of our Great-grandchildren. I put them in a safe spot so I could send them in December.

Today is January 1, 2017-New Year's Day-and I just came across the cards, including this one,for you....

"For my Husband,...
Just by being by my side,
you keep my heart warm and full,
you make our home a place to rest easy,
you give me the greatest gift ever day--
your LOVE.

Merry Christmas...."

From the very beginning
We made a great team--
From pageants to backpacks
We followed our dreams.
We've begun a new chapter,...
You're in Heaven, above.

I miss you dearly,...
My husband,...my love.

Chocolate Cake, Recliner Chair,
Dogs as Pets,...
Waffles, Vegas, Baseball,
the NY Mets,...
Brooklyn, Erasmus Hall,
Swimming Pool,...
Stocks, Bonds, Lake George,
Joe's Own Rules,...
Counselor, Teacher, Principal,
Superintendent,...
Backpacks, Presents, Food Delivery,
America's Favorite Pageants,...
Arby's, Olive Garden, Chick-fil-A,...
Pepsi, Pepperoni Pizza, Chicken Parm,
Flemings' Filet,...
Wrapping Gifts, Black Licorice, Tootsie Rolls,...
Umpire, Official, Coach, Working the Polls,...
Usher, Greeter, Deacon, Elder,
Cherry Tootsie Pop,...
Dad, Grandpa, Papa, #1 Pop-Pop,...

A Hug a Day, Love You Forever,
My Husband, My Friend,
My Team Mate, My Lover.

December 3, 2016....Health Central Hospital presented a "Candlelight Celebration Service" to honor those who passed this year while in critical care units. It was a beautiful and meaningful service and I am SO glad I participated.
The Iris was the underlying theme from the invitations to the special touches during the service.

The iris' mythology dates back to Ancient Greece, when the goddess Iris, who personified the rainbow (the Greek word for iris), acted as the link between heaven and earth. It's said that purple irises were planted over the graves of women to summon the goddess Iris to guide them in their journey to heaven. Irises became linked to the French monarchy during the Middle Ages, eventually being recognized as their national symbol, the fleur-de-lis.

The February birth flower, the 25th wedding anniversary flower and the state flower of Tennessee, the iris's three upright petals are said to symbolize faith, valor and wisdom.

"Your Loved One's Legacy...
A Christian leaves a legacy through their walk of faith that does more than point us back to a wonderful life remembered--it also points us forward in hope to an amazing celebration that is to come.
Praying that God will give you comfort for your sorrows today, hope for what is yet to come, and the assurance of His presence with you always."

Thinking of you and pray that knowing so many care, brings comfort and hope to your days ahead. Joe was such a shining light of God's Love and compassion and his example will live on! Your Love and Care were truly a blessing to him.

....from July 4, 2016....
WARM FUZZIES OF THE DAY:
1--Joe slept most of Monday and started waking around 5pm today. At one point, he opened his eyes, looked at me, and said, "How ya doin?"
2--His girls went to drop off their luggage and came back just before 9pm. He looked over at me and I said, "Look who's here!" He looked at Kathleen (Kate) and had the biggest smile!
3--Then I said, "Look who else is here" and motioned toward Helene. The smile I thought couldn't get any bigger,...did just that!
GOD IS GOOD! We still have a long way to go, but he still recognizes and responds....

Dear Chesta,...You've been in my heart and prayers over these past weeks. I pray that you've been lifted p knowing how much Joe meant to more people than I can imagine. He gave his life for others and always with a smile and a kind word. I pray God continues to comfort you as the weeks, months and years pass. Fondly,...

"As you remember your Husband...In God's love, there is a place for grief and a promise of peace.

Praying that God's love will comfort you, reminding you again and again that you are not alone."

" Perfect Peace--
The unknown stretches like an ocean far beyond our view,
But we can visualize that distant shore--A paradise of perfect peace where skies are always blue--
A place where we won't worry any more.
And how we wish that those we love could somehow find a way
To let us know they've made it safely there,
So we can let them go and know they really are okay...
Receiving all the love we send in prayer.

To wish you comfort as you grieve--a healing strength as you believe that life goes on beyond this shore and all of us will meet once more."

"Such a light to our Lives...Such a Beautiful Soul. Celebrating the homegoing of your loved one, whose life was so well-lived."

Joe was a one of a kind gentleman, a class act who leaves behind a legacy of kindness and good works. we were blessed to have known him.

Joe always embraced the joys around him. I will never forget the way he reassured me that my daughters' dancing during the church music was not a distraction to be stifled, but an expression of delight which in turn delighted those around. He enjoyed the impromptu "performance" every week, and my daughters adored him. He will be missed, but I know he will always be "watching the dance." --Julie Scarborough

A kind, gentle, loving man who served others unconditionally! Joe, there is no doubt you are enjoying peace and love in your heavenly home! God Bless you and all of us who will miss you dearly!

Dearest Chesta:
Sue and I pray for you for YOU to feel the STRENGTH HE is giving YOU in so many forms to include, family and friends. We LOVE Joe and will miss seeing you both together...What a great "Match made in Heaven"!! A few years ago I received a very unexpected note from Joe on a Linkedin website. It began: RARE FIND! and read "
Joe Hembrooke
Co-Founder & Treasurer at S.T.A.R.S. of West Orange, Inc. (Supplies to Assist ouR Students)

"We all know hundreds, even thousands of people in our lifetime but rarely do we find someone with the qualities that Jim possesses. You have to look very hard to find anyone with such a wonderful, caring, charismatic man who lights up a room every time he enters.

I know I speak for many who have known Jim over the years who will agree that God has touched all of our lives to have been a friend and admirer."
I was so touched by this note I have kept it for many years. What a VERY SPECIAL man!!!!
Much LOVE Chesta and Many Blessings......
Sue and Jim Densmore

Joe was a wonderful client of mine. I truly enjoyed our interactions and am sad to hear that he's gone. I know he's enjoying a peace that surpasses all understanding in a better place. I pray that those he left behind are comforted in this difficult season.

"There are certain people who touch the lives of those they know in a unique way. Knowing them brings us joy and inspiration, and when they're gone, memories of all they've done stay with us...Joe was one of those people to me. I'm grateful to have known such a special person. With Sympathy and Understanding...."
I was sorry to hear about Joe's passing. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

"When we lose someone we love, it's difficult to imagine anything that could ease the pain and sorrow that we feel so deep inside...but it's hoped that these few words of sympathy can, in some small way, play their part in easing your pain."

If you need us from the neighborhood, we are here to help.

"Your loved one is now home in a place where comfort and peace are the rewards for a life lived faithfully in the Lord--a life that was a blessing to others, and a life that brought happiness to many. May you find peace in your heart knowing that your loved one is with God today."
Much love,

"You have lost someone very special, someone who touched many hearts. And those hearts will touch many more. And in that way, your loved one will always remain a part of you, a part of everything."

I was deeply saddened by the passing of Joe (Pop-Pop). I can't imagine how difficult this must be for you. My heart goes out to you in your time of sorrow.
Though we do not keep in personal contact at this time I would like to let you know I think (thought) of you both often. I remember the great times we spent together. And what a wonderful Grandma & Pop Pop to my children you were/are.
Take care of yourself!
Be good to yourself!
Find solace in all of his memories!

"A Life so full of Love deserves to be honored...and will always be remembered."
As I shared with you in my email the morning Joe passed through the gates of Heaven...Words can not express the sadness I feel and the tears I shed right now. Joe was such an incredible man, an inspiration to so many, an amazing father and friend, loving husband, gracious provider and teacher, a supporter of life and motivation to everyone he met encouraging them to make tomorrow's dreams their future He will live on forever in all our hearts and will never be forgotten. Joe is and always will be up in Heaven shining his bright smile upon us and sending the warming rays of sunshine to brighten even our dreariest days.
I love you and send you supportive, strengthening hugs and prayers for healing today and always.
In Joe's memory I have made a donation online to Bread of Life Fellowship.

"I like to think of sunbeams as those we love reaching down to remind us they are not very far at all. wishing you moments where you feel wrapped up in teh warmth of your memories."

Sorry to hear about Joe. I pray for God's comforting Spirit to be with you in these days. In Christ's Love,...

I was shocked when I heard the news of Joe's passing. He was a good man, Charlie Brown!
I will remember working with you all with S.T.A.R.S. in West Oaks Mall, and seeing him and you at church I visualize him "organizing heaven" and greeting "newbies" with his big smile. He will be missed by all who had the good fortune of knowing him. With love and sympathy,...

We are so sorry abut your loss I feel I lost a friend.
Regards,...

"This is a fragile time...a time to be gentle with yourself and to give your heart permission to grieve, to feel, to remember.
Strength and hope will come again, but for ow...Do what you need to honor this sorrow, letting your heart and spirit heal."

We shall miss Joe so much but we know he is in the arms of our Father in heaven...Love,

"...It's hardest to say good-bye to those who are easiest to love."

Growing up in your pageant system was a true pleasure for me. Both you and Joe helped me to grow and mature. During those years Joe served as a father figure for me. He was always a strong presence for me. A wonderful man with a huge heart. With love,...

"When you lose the one you love, your life is changed forever.

Wishing you strength in the caring of friends and family..
...and hoping that time will gently soothe your sadness into peace."

You are in our thoughts and prayers. Joe was a great man and he will be remembered by many. Hugs,...

"Those we hold closest to our hearts never truly leave us.

They live on in the kindnesses they shared and the love they brought into our lives."
--Anonymous

Please accept my deepest sympathy for yor great loss. Joe was indeed fortuante to have had you in his life. Surely, your love and kindness brought him great comfort and happiness.
May God, in His mercy, sustain and console you in the days ahead.
Please be assured of my continued thoughts and prayers.
Most sincerely,...

"Grief is a journey whose mp unfolds one day, one moment at a time...."

I care so much about what you're going through, and my heart and support will be with you all along the way.

"In memories we find comfort. In time, we find peace...."

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. --Matthew 5:4

Please accept our sincere sympathy on the loss of Joe. We have countless fond memories from the years we have known Joe and your family.

'This is a fragile time....a time to be gentle with yourself and to give your heart permission to grieve, to feel, to remember.

Strength and hope will come again, but for now....Do what you need to honor this sorrow, letting your heart and spirit heal."

"We grieve the same as we love....in our own individual way.

Hoping that time is kind to your heart and brings you sweet memories in place of sadness."

"Like stars outshine the darkest night...Love outlasts a single lifetime."

"May the light of all you shared with someone so special help see you through this time."

"...though the voice is quiet, te spirit echoes still...."

What a beautiful man! You are so blessed. No words to say the way I feel at this time.

"HIS LOVE MADE YOU HAPPY. May you always treasure those memories.
HIS LOVE GAVE YOU STRENGTH. May you trust it will still be there to get you through each day.
HIS LOVE IS YOURS FOREVER...May its lasting beauty comfort your heart today and always."

"The pain of a loss reflects how deeply our hearts have loved."

"God knows the depth of your love and only He can bring the comfort your heart needs. I pray He will give you peace and strength as you go through this timem of grieving."

Though your heart must hold deep sadness at the loss of the one you loved, may it also hold the blessings of the life you shared and the love that will always be a part of you...

Praying that God will comfort your heart, uplift your spirit, and carry you through this time of sadness to a place of peace.

"The life given by nature is short; but the memory of a well-spent life is eternal." --Christopher Halloway

May memories comfort you and may hope guide your way to a brighter tomorrow.

When someone we love
passes on beyond life
in the world that we know
and is gone,
A beautiful sense of their presence,
like music remembered by heart,
lingers on....
When someone we love
finds a wonderful home
in a world only faith can reveal,
Our memories can be
like a song in the heart
with the power to comfort and heal.

In the quiet moments, may you feel the presence of your loved one, Joe, and the healing power of his memory.

We're given many gifts as we go through life.
Some we're allowed to enjoy for a long time, others only briefly.
But each gift has the power to change us, enrich us, to make us better people.

In your sadness, may there also be joy
that you had such a person to love.

It is hard for us to find the words to express how much you and Joe have meant to our family. You both took us in as part of your own family, and have been like parents and grandparents to our children. Joe was always so fun loving and enjoyable to be with, and make me feel like everything would always be alright. His love of our Lord has made a permanent impact on my heart--his profession of faith and actions of service touch me and I looked up to him as a role model for all men.
Your marriage with him showcased the great partnership you had and how you both drew strength from one another. An example of how God can bring two together to accomplish so much more as a married couple.
I am so grateful to have been a part of your lives together, and pray the Lord's comfort as you mourn this loss, but know he is seated at the side of our Lord, shining brightly with love and encouragement, watching your every step.
With love,...Beth & John

Our lives are but fine weavings
That God and we prepare --
Each life becomes a fabric planned
And fashioned in His care
We may not always see just how
The weavings intertwine,
But we must trust the Master's hand
And follow His design,
For He can view the pattern
Upon the upper side,
While we must look from underneath
And trust in Him to guide...
Sometimes a strand of sorrow
Is added to His plan,
And though it's difficult for us,
We still must understand
That it's He who fills the shuttle,
It's He who knows what's best,
So we must weave in patience
And leave to Him the rest...
Not till the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Shall God unroll the canvas
And explain the reason why --
The dark threads are as needed
In the Weaver's skillful hand
As the treads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned.

The heart remembers most what it has loved best....

I like to think of sunbeams as those we love, reaching down to remind us they are not very far at all.

In times of tears, remember the laughter.
In times of sadness, remember the smiles.
In times of loneliness, remember all you shared.

Hope it helps you to know you'll have those warm loving memories forever.

Remembering Mr. Joe is always a fun, kind, thoughtful memory. Mr. Joe always made me and my family feel welcomed, loved and a part of his family. We will miss him every day.

What a remarkable man and what a remarkable life. You will be missed by so many, including me. I was inspired by you and the life that you led. Thank you for being an educator's educator and for being such positive role model of humility and strength.

Remember him very well. Sorry to hear of his passing. Rick Clark class of 75.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Chesta and family. We are so thankful for all the hours spent building the S.T.A.R.S program for our children of Orange County. May God bless you and keep you and give you the strength you will need as you go through your time of bereavement. He will see you through.

Deloris Patterson of Dr. Phillips High School

With deepest sympathy from the administration, faculty, students and staff

My dad couldn't sleep last night and awoke to write this tribute to Joe Hembrooke. He wanted some help typing and tweaking - I think it's perfect!

I will be missing my good friend Joe. Joe always had a list of projects to do in the winter when we went to his home in Ocoee, so we would always go shopping at Lowes for materials and always seem to end up at Arby's! I will remember the many trips to Hard Rock in Vegas, Turning Stone, and Tioga Downs where we were always trying to win big. It was always an adventure and always a good time. Lots of great memories. RIP, my friend.
---Bud Putnam

Joe's Favorite Meal was ready and waiting for him in the Fellowship Hall after the Memorial Service.....

Today, we celebrated the life of a man who spent most of his life serving others. He was a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather to his family. He led in educational positions such as principal and then superintendent of schools in New York. He umpired for Little League teams and even served as an umpire for the Little League World Series. He was generous and kind and created a non-profit to support students living in poverty. He served on a Board of Directors to the Bread of Life Fellowship as well as the S.T.A.R.S. of West Orange. He provided encouragement and guidance and always left you smiling.He worked with the Chamber of Commerce, served as president of his neighborhood HOA and was just an amazing soul. He was a role model for people of all ages and I'm glad our paths crossed almost a decade ago. You may not have known the man but, you may have people in your lives that go out of their ways to serve and show compassion for others. I will miss Joe's loving spirit and every time I pass the Arby's on my way to the STARS center, I will think of him one more time,,, <3

My deepest sympathies are with you and your family. May you take comfort in all the wonderful memories you have of Joe. He leaves a big whole here on earth but OH what a glorious angel he is in the Kingdom Of Heaven. I hope this little song will bring you some comfort and peace. Love & Prayers to you my friend.

Heaven gained another angel today. Pop pop Joe was a wonderful man to Trent and I. Him and Grandma Chesta were by our sides through some of our darkest times. Trent loved swimming in the pool with pop pop, and he has been so great to him since the day he was born. Say hi to my mamaw for me, Grandpa Joe. We will keep Chesta and the rest of the family in our prayers. Love you ❤❤

So very sorry to hear this news, Chesta. Will always remember his wonderful smile and his dear, sweet soul. He will be missed by so many. May the good Lord hold you safely in His arms and carry you through this ordeal. Prayers and hugs for all of you.

We are so saddened by this. Trent and I loved Pop Pop so much. Thank you for all that you both have done for us over the last 10 years. Our prayers will be with you and all of your family. ❤❤

God bless Chesta, know you are in the thoughts and prayers of us all as you go through this hard part, you did your best and it was enough. You both put it in Gods hands!

Much love and prayers to you and your family, Mrs. H. Your union with Mr. H has had an enormously positive impact on so many of us for generations to come!

So very sorry for the loss of Joe. My prayers and love to you and the family. What a great person he was, will never forget him and all the wonderful things he did for me & many others.

Chesta I am so sad to hear of my dear friend Joe. I will say prayers for you and your family. He has the biggest heart and kindest ways of anyone I have ever met. so many have blessed by the work you and Joe do. I love you both

Chesta, I am deeply sadden to hear that Joe has passed. He was such a loving and giving man, and I know how much you two loved one another. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. xo

Joe was a pleasure to have known, one worthy to model in treading the paths behind 'The 'Rabbi', our Lord...now Dancing in the Book of Life. We pray your peace in such difficult time

Sweet Chesta my heart is filled with love for you today. My family and I wish you only thoughts of love and memories of the best times to get you through. We are so happy that Leslie and Eileen shared you and Joe with us. Your kindness and hospitality are unmatched.

Kerry and I heard the news today as we left the cabin. Kerry and I shared fond memories of you and Joe putting our engagement shower together. We are praying for you while we celebrate Joe's life.

Praying for peace and comfort for the days to come. He will always have a special place in my heart and I will cherish the memories of knowing him.

Chesta, Mr. Joe was the B-E-S-T! We will truly miss him... My the Lord comfort you during this difficult time. With love and prayers

Chesta Hembrooke my heart is breaking for you and your family! What a blessing Joe was to us all! My prayer will be for God's peace to comfort you during this difficult journey through grief. ❤❤

Today we celebrate a great man. I met Joe and his wife, Chesta, shortly after starting my career in Orlando through their work with the WOCC and their organization, S.T.A.R.S. They were with me for many of life's firsts (marriage, first house and child). They were always there to offer advice, to support me and make me smile when that was exactly what I needed. The best way, in my opinion, to honor Joe's life is to follow his example: choose love not hate, find the silver lining in every situation and be a good friend to all you meet. We will miss you Joe.

We will miss you Grandpa rest in peace ! All the struggles are over , you are flying high with the Angels in heaven now . We will always take care of grandma for you. Love you RIP

After visiting Joe's Obituary, I was much enlightened. As a neighbor of Chesta and Joes' for a number of years, I had no idea of the many ways in which Joe served his communitie(s). He Truely always wore thaat great wmile and was very much a positive and wonderful person. What a wonderful obituary and well deserved.

Chesta, That was a very nice obit. It brought back memories of growing up with Joseph in Brooklyn and then spending the first 20 summers of my life with him at Lake. I fondly remember one summer when we both tried out for the St Louis Cardinals. Joseph was 15 yrs old. He loved the game & I thought we were good. ( they thought differently!). My prayers r with u and his family.

What a great obituary, very informative. That smile will always be remembered. So very sorry for your loss, but we know Joe has been welcomed into the arms of the Lord. He has certainly done his part. Stay strong my sister. <3

Chesta Hembrooke, I am so, so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. I will remember him fondly for the love and talents he shared so enthusiastically with the West Orange community. My thoughts are with you during this most difficult time.

We judged w/him, George, at nationals in Disney and u know Rin won his NJ National Pre-teen before she won NJ American Pre-teen. He was so good to us! Sure he's comparing notes w/your beloved Dad!! Whom we miss with all our hearts!!❤❤

So sorry to hear about the passing today of Joe Hembrooke. Joe was my high school principal & became a good friend during the years he worked as a judge for my parents' pageants. RIP Joe !!

Remembering Joe Hembrooke today is bittersweet. This photo was taken about 12 years ago...during a different season of my life. Through the bends and twists and sometimes roads less traveled Joe remained an integral part of my and my family's life. It was an honor to know him and serve with him. Thank you Joe. You leave behind a legacy and a lot of fond memories.

Our hearts are with Chesta Hembrooke today. We wish we could be with you today to celebrate Joe's amazing life but we are definitely with you in spirit and will see you soon. I have loved reading all the posts of how Joe touched the lives of so many people like he has ours. He really lived life the right way - always with kindness. We have so many great memories over the years and have been blessed to know him. We'll miss hearing him call Chesta his "doll". My dad Robert Putnam will surely miss his company while gambling. Josh Updyke will miss jarring with him about who was better - Yankees or the Mets and just discussing baseball in general. He always met Emma with a smile and a "I think you grew 6 more inches". James Updyke and Greg could always be found in some deep conversation with him about what was going on in the world or just relaxing watching one of their 2 living room tv's. Thoughts and prayers to Chesta today as you say goodbye to your best friend. "I Did it my Way" is the appropriate song because that's exactly what he did and always with love and compassion. RIP Joe Hembrooke. ❤

So sorry, he was a great man and will be sorely missed! Loved working at STARS with Joe and Chesta.

Kate sorry for your loss

Our most sincere condolences to the Hembrooke family. Kate, we are so very sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your memories and hold dear the love and support of your family. We love you so very much. May God watch over you all during this very difficult time.

I graduated 1976 from hhds.....he was the principle......I liked him.....he was kind to me when I had it tough at home.....to me.....I thought he was great. he got me on the right path......and didn't know it then......im so sorry for ur loss......he truly was a good man....and principle. rest in peace mr. hembrooke. don farr.

To The Hembrooke Family, my deepest condolences to the family of a life well lived.

Got to kn=w and appreciate his joy of life, his enthusiasm and his love for doing for other. He will be missed.

Gary Fredericks
Son Realty
Horseheads, New York

I can hear Joe's voice as he walks into a room, "Hey, Doll, how ya doin'?" Joe was a blessing to so many. A true man of God.

I'm just in awe of Joe's many, many accomplishments and the literally hundreds of lives he touched throughout his life! You and Joe touched even more lives through your STARS outreach work, which I was blessed to help out in a small way. Your truly amazing husband will be missed by me, and so many, many people!

Joe was a great principal at Horseheads High where my brother, George and I graduated. He was always supportive of his students and staff. I graduated in 1975 and my brother in 1978.
Joe was also instrumental in working with my parents, George and Mary Jo Scarborough who lived in Pensacola, FL for many years with Outstanding Young Americans and American Coed Pageants. My prayers and thoughts are with you, Chesta and your family!! My father passed in 2011 and my mom now lives near my brother Joe in CT. May the Lord bless you and keep you! Love, Carol Scarborough Ward.

Chesta, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Joe will be missed. We know the angels are happy to see him..

Renford & Claudette Robinson

Chesta, I am so very sorry for you and your family's loss. I hope you find comfort in knowing so many people are praying for you all, The world will miss Joe's presence but will remember his kind and generous spirit always,
love you
Denise

i wanted to express my deepest condolences to you. Although I only met Joe a few times, it was all I needed to understand how great and how kind of a man he was. I am so grateful to have met him, and you, and know that you will continue to live his legacy! My prayers are with you and your family during this hard time.

We were close friends at Brockport, graduated same year, eventually worked in Horseheads, NY, then years after when he eventually became Superintendent. I'm sad to learn he was in ill-health, recently had surgery, but realize enjoyed life as a loving husband, father, and grandfather of a wonderful family. My sympathy to those he loved and valued for many years! I regret not visiting him in Florida but I will never forget our time together over many years.

Heaven gained a wonderful angel. RIP Joe Hembrooke. You will be missed and so many people owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to you and Chesta Hembrooke for giving us an opportunity to grow and shine. Thoughts and prayers are with the Hembrooke family!

Our loss is definitely heavens gain. Joe's love and dedication for Our Father as he served so many will always be remembered as an amazing legacy for others to follow. He was always a pleasure to work with and you were always greeted with his sweet smile. Love ya Mr. Joe!

I have a quote that hangs on my wall that reads "When I stand before God at the end of my life I would hope that I would have not a single bit of talent left and could say, 'I used everything you gave me.'"
I know that this is surely true for Joe Hembrooke! You both are examples of how to live giving away all your God given "talents" for the sake others! I am honored to have been a part of those who called Joe friend! His life (and yours, Chesta) gives me an example to strive for!

Very saddened this morning to hear of the passing of Joe Hembrooke. He was such an amazing soul and has done many great things for people over the years! Chesta and Joe started the S.T.A.R.S. of West Orange, Inc. 13 years ago to help students living in poverty to start school with the supplies they need to be successful. He will be missed!!

I'm so so sorry to hear of this! This breaks my heart... He was a great man and always great to talk to. He was always a pleasure to help out whenever he would come by Publix. My condolences to Chesta and the family. He will be missed.

My heart is heavy today as the world lost one of the most pure-hearted men I've ever met. Joe Hembrooke was like a grandfather to me, somebody I've known all my life who brought me and everyone he met so much joy! My thoughts go out to his entire family and especially to his wonderful wife, Chesta Hembrooke who together accomplished so many things and created so many charitable events and organizations. RIP Mr. Joe, the world lost one of its finest. <3

As I scrolled my news feed today, pondering joy-filled words to post, I came across the very sad news of this man's passing. I cannot begin to tell you all that Joe Hembrooke did for his church and community, and what he did for our family, especially our boys. I am deeply saddened, and know that he will be greatly missed by the innumerable lives he touched. I am certain he is hearing those precious words right now, "Well done, my good and faithful servant". My heart and prayers go out to Chesta Hembrooke, his loving and faithful wife, with an equally beautiful heart, and their many children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

RIP Joe Hembrooke
The world lost a great man today and its a sad day for all who knew Joe. All the times I had helped with the Backpacks or helping the store in the Mall. Joe was an amazing person and would give you the shirt off his back. This world will miss you, wish there were more of you here. Keep Chesta Hembrooke in your prayers as she lost her Best Friend today. I send my love and condolences your way Chesta!

So heartbroken to learn of the passing of Mr. Hembrooke. I have such fond memories of he and his wife, Chesta Hembrooke, from my days competing in Favorite Pre Teen and Favorite Teenager. My favorite memory of him is entering Disney World and he asked us which ride we wanted to go on first. Without hesitation, he took off with 15 8-12 year olds and we rode Thunder Mountain! His smile was priceless and his laughter was contagious. RIP, Mr. Hembrooke.

My heart has been heavy since being notified early this morning. To say this man was a true disciple of God is an understatement. I attribute the fact of me getting on my feet during a very dark time 17 years ago to Joe and Chesta Hembrooke. I was a single parent to a 7 year old and twin 1 year olds and had just lost both my parents. They welcomed us to a new Church family and wrapped their loving arms around us. They prayed with me and provided strength and encouragement until I could stand on my own. They ensured my children had Christmas when my life was upside down and that we had food on the table until I could re-adjust my plan. Earth has loss an amazing man, but Heaven has welcomed home an amazing Saint. Joe I know my parents greeted you in Heaven this morning to personally thank you for taking their daughter and 3 grand children under your wing! You were a father and grandfather image when that spot was void. Thank you for leaving a great legacy.
Friends- Please lift his wife Chesta, his family and friends who are left behind up in prayer as his entry to Heaven leaves a void here on Earth! Joe- You will forever be in our hearts.