Jewell Lee Hemphill passes away at 94

DOWNEY - Jewell Lee Hemphill, a fan of gospel music who, with her husband, supported several ministries, died Jan. 8 at The Villa retirement home in Downey. She was 94.She was born in Amarillo, Tex. and lived most of her life in and around Clayton, N.M. In 2004, she went to live with her sisters in California. Her final days were spent at the retirement home. She is survived by her sisters Virginia and Robena Beckner of Downey; nieces Charlene Ikard and Sandra Etherley; nephew DeWayne Beckner; great nieces Jaylene, Alicia, Nicole, Yamizel, Tara and Danae; great nephews Bradley, tanner and Geoffrey; six great-great nieces and nephews; and many cousins. Funeral services will be held Saturday. She will be buried at Clayton Memorial Cemetery in Clayton, N.M. ********** Published: January 16, 2009 - Volume 7 - Issue 39