Mack Hemphill

Mack Hemphill, 75 of Champaign, IL, transitioned from this life at 1:06'am, Monday, December 2, 2019 at CU Rehab Center in Savoy.  Mack was born June 8, 1944 in Greenville, Mississippi to James Hemphill Sr., and Ida Poole.

Mack attended Urbana Schools until 1959. He then relocated to Champaign and attended Central High School. Mack was a track star. At Central, he qualified for State in the Pole Vault Competition and earned 3rd Place.  Mack attended Southern Illinois University for one year. 

During his working years, he was employed by General Cable and Meadow Gold. He also drove the school bus and lastly worked for the University of Illinois Food Services. Mack retired from the University in 1999 after 17 years of service. 

Mack had a contagious smile and loved joking around.  He was never in a hurry. Mac walked with a smooth glide and dip in his step! Mack had a unique way of expressing himself; he used his hands to get his point across. 

Mack leaves to cherish his amazing memory, his children: Yusef Hemphill (Shalawn), Telese Hemphill, Mia Hemphill, Felicia Harvey- Hemphill and Denise Hemphill; his siblings: James Hemphill Jr., Minnie P. Pearson-Phillips, Barbara Simpson, Jonnie Lee Hemphill, Robert James Hemphill, Jonnie Lewis Hemphill, Delores (Ricky) Hendrick, Shirley Ann Clinton, Debra Ann Armstrong, Gele Mobley,  several grandchildren, nieces, nephews and close friends. 

Mack was preceded in death by his parents: James Hemphill Sr., and Ida Poole, and 2 sisters: Annie Belle Bishop and Fatima (Fannie) Shabazz.
A Visitation will commence from 2-3'pm, Friday December 6, 2019 at Leek & Sons Funeral Chapel Urbana.

 

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