Remembering LaBreeska Hemphill

The Homecoming family is sad to lose another great member this week.  LaBreeska Hemphill passed away in the early morning hours of Wednesday, December 9, after a prolonged illness.  She was 75 years of age.

LaBreeska was the matriarch of the veteran gospel group The Hemphills, where she served alongside her husband Joel for more than 50 years.  “For over 50 years, my bride and companion, stood with me through ups and downs, joy and pain, tears and prayers, and I will miss her greatly,” reflects Joel. “Although we have lost her earthly presence, I know I will see her again. I know where she’s headed, and that’s what counts! I love you, sweetheart, see you soon. You’ve finished well.”

The legacy of LaBreeska Hemphill will live on through her family – Joel Hemphill, Joel Hemphill Jr. (Joey), Trent Hemphill (Hemphill Brothers Coach Company) and Candy Hemphill Christmas (The Bridge Ministry / Resting Place Church).

“We are sad to hear that Labreeska Hemphill has slipped from our Gospel Music community; we are glad to know that she has instead slipped into the arms of Jesus. The death of a saint of God is only sad on this side of the very sheer veil.  On the other side there is great rejoicing and no more pain.  We believe that there is eternity on both sides, as we are all learning to recognize and embrace the eternal in every moment.  Soon for us all, the material will let go and the eternal will flood in with no veil to filter it! LaBreeska was a dear and unselfish lady who loved her Lord, her family and all of us who were brought into her life.  We shall miss her…but not for long.”  – Bill and Gloria Gaither

NEW DETAILS ON SERVICE PLANS:  

A celebration of LaBreeska Hemphill’s life will take place this weekend in Nashville, TN and West Monroe, LA. Both services will be open to the public. Please see full details below.

As we remember her wonderful contribution to gospel music and to the Homecoming series, we offer up this beautiful video clip featuring LaBreeska singing on “I’m Longing For Jesus to Come Back.”  Watch the video here.