Obituary of Thomas P. Hemple

Legendary local auto enthusiast, collector and mechanic Thomas P. Hemple, 97, of Bridgeton died unexpectedly on Sunday, August 7, 2016 at Inspira Medical Center-Vineland. Born in Greenwich Twp., he was the son of the late Joseph Hemple and Anna Dalton Hemple and was the husband of Dorothy “Dot” Richey Hemple. He was predeceased by his first wife, Mary Dare Hemple and had been a lifetime resident of the Fairfield Twp. and Bridgeton areas. For many years Tom had been self employed as an auto mechanic and auto salesman and had also previously worked for the Pennsylvania Glass and Sand Co. in Downe Twp. He was a longtime member of the Regional Model A Club and specialized in his passion of antique and performance cars. In addition to his wife Dot, he is survived by his four children, Thomas A. Hemple (Joan) of Fairfield Twp., Beth Richey of Bridgeton, Wayne Hemple (Donna) of Fairfield Twp. and Russell Hemple (LuAnn) of Millville; his sister, Anna Harriet “Ann” Beckett, 5 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Tom was predeceased by his siblings, James Hemple, Ella Mae Pettit, Mary Rolley, Melwood Hemple, Bertha Mae Billings, Carl Hemple, Robert Hemple, Joseph Hemple, Kurk Hemple, Clarence Hemple and William Hemple. Funeral services will be held at the PADGETT FUNERAL HOME, 1107 State Highway 77, Upper Deerfield Twp. on Saturday morning, August 13th at 10 AM. Friends will be received at the funeral home on Friday evening from 6 to 8 PM and on Saturday morning from 9 to 10 AM prior to the services. Interment will take place at Overlook Cemetery in Bridgeton. Written condolences can be sent to the family at www.padgettfuneralhomes.com.