(From Simpson Funeral Home)With hearts full of cherished memories and eyes filled with tears, we announce the passing of a remarkable man, Keith Hembree. He passed away on October 19, 2025.
Born on July 1, 1971, in Grove, Oklahoma, to the late Walter Hembree and Linda Hembree - Stapleton, Keith was a beacon of love, humor, and strength to all who knew him. His compassionate spirit, quick wit, and generous heart made him a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
He attended Webb City High School with the class of 1989. Soon after, on December 1, 1989, Keith married the love of his life, Linda Hembree. Together, they shared a beautiful journey built on partnership, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Keith was a devoted and proud father to his daughters — Ashley Duncan, Melinda Hembree, Tara Tindal, and Keyla Husby — always encouraging their dreams and celebrating their accomplishments. His family was his greatest joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
Keith dedicated 28 years of his life to a career in retail, serving in management at O'Reilly in Carthage with loyalty and pride. His commitment to excellence was recognized with a training award from O’Reilly’s, a testament to his work ethic and leadership. He proudly served in the 203rd Corps of Engineers in the Missouri Army National Guard from 2009 until his retirement in 2021.
Outside of work, Keith found peace and happiness in the simple things — fishing, golfing, singing, and experimenting with his 3D scanner. These hobbies reflected his curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for life’s quiet moments.
A favorite quote that perfectly captures Keith’s spirit is by Ralph Waldo Emerson: “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
Keith truly lived well. His kindness, strength, and unwavering love touched everyone around him.
Keith dedicated 28 years of his life to a career in retail, serving in management at O'Reilly in Carthage with loyalty and pride. His commitment to excellence was recognized with a training award from O’Reilly’s, a testament to his work ethic and leadership. He proudly served in the 203rd Corps of Engineers in the Missouri Army National Guard from 2009 until his retirement in 2021.
Outside of work, Keith found peace and happiness in the simple things — fishing, golfing, singing, and experimenting with his 3D scanner. These hobbies reflected his curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for life’s quiet moments.
A favorite quote that perfectly captures Keith’s spirit is by Ralph Waldo Emerson: “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
Keith truly lived well. His kindness, strength, and unwavering love touched everyone around him.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda Hembree; daughters Ashley Duncan (spouse Ron Duncan) and granddaughter Akayley Duncan and bonus granddaughter Nevaeh; Melinda Hembree; Tara Tindal (spouse Joshua Tindal) and grandson Brayden Tindal; Keyla Husby (spouse Cory Husby) and granddaughter Erica Husby; his mother Linda Hembree-Stapleton; brother Randy Hembree (spouse Bonnie Pettit); sister April Coleman (spouse Tommy Coleman); and many nieces and nephews who adored him.
Keith’s life was one of purpose, laughter, and love — and his memory will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
A visitation will be held on Friday, October 24th from 6-8pm at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 25th at 11am at the Purcell Baptist Church, located at 403 N. Main St, Purcell, MO 64857. Pastor Scott Simmons will officiate. Burial will follow at Weaver Cemetery.
Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family invites relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share memories and photos of Keith — reminders of the beautiful life he lived and the countless hearts he touched.
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