Sept. 28, 1918 - March 20, 2009

Ed N. Hembree, 90, of Albany passed away Friday at his residence.

He was born in Lafayette, the son of E. Clinton and Nettie (Parliment) Hembree. He graduated from high school and began his career as a meat cutter. He married M. Laverne Newsom in McMinnville on July 17, 1940. In 1943, Ed was called to serve his country in the U.S. Navy and served as ship's cook until his honorable discharge in 1945. Ed worked his entire career as a meat cutter in various positions from managing meat departments for Safeway, Piggly Wiggly and Paul's Grocery to owning markets in Sweet Home, Springfield and Jefferson. Ed retired on Dec. 31, 1979.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, woodworking, reading Western novels and Native American history, and listening to western music. Ed was very much a people person.

Ed was a past member of the Elks Lodge, Masonic Lodge, Albany VFW and American Legion.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 69 years, M. Laverne Hembree of Albany; daughters Judy Guzeldere and Barbara Stone; sister Mary Jean Davies; three grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

At his request, there will be no public services. AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling arrangements (www.aasum-dufour.com).