Mary Christine "Tenna" Hemphill

Age 91; died December 3, 2014 in Ocean Springs, MS. Teena was a resident of Pass Christian, MS. She was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Annie Lee Richardson, a sister Annie Lee ""Babe"" Schlatter, a brother Clarence ""Rich"" Richardson, and her husband of 63 years Melvin Hemphill. She is survived by her daughter Merrye Lynn Brennan of Pass Christian, MS; her son Melvin ""Buddy"" Hemphill and wife Mary Jane of Cleveland, MS; a sister Mable Richardson Savoie of Bell Rose, LA; two grandchildren Jan Brennan and husband Wayne Friedman of New York, NY; and John Brennan and wife Sara Beth of Little Rock, AK; four great-grandchildren, Alex and Madeline of New York, NY; and Jack and Will of Little Rock, AK; and eleven nieces and nephews.
Teena was born in Norwood, LA, lived and received elementary and high school education in Centreville, MS. She attended LSU for one year before marrying Melvin Hemphill in 1942. She returned to College at Delta State University in 1967 where she earned a master's degree in math education. Until she retired, Teena enjoyed teaching math at Rosedale High School in Rosedale, MS. She was a dedicated teacher and life-long learner. She was a loyal member of the United Methodist Church, especially the United Methodist Women.
She served in several conference offices of the Mississippi Conference of the United Methodist Church, among them Conference President of the United Methodist Women, Chairperson of the Conference Council on Ministries, delegate to General Conference, and representative of the Women's Division on the Board of Global Ministries. She taught studies, Sunday school, and served in any capacity that was needed in her local Church. Most recently she served as Treasurer of First United Methodist Church of Pass Christian, MS.
Teena was a fantastic cook, loved her yard and gardening, and above all her family. A memorial service will be held January 2, 2015 at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of Cleveland, MS where friends may call one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to United Methodist Senior Services at Seashore Highlands Greenhouse, 12170 Highland Way, Gulfport, MS. 39503; or Delta State University Foundation, Melvin Hemphill Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 3141, Cleveland, MS 38733.
RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Rd., Gulfport, MS served the family. An online guestbook may be signed and tributes may be offered at www.riemannfamily.com