Emma Bembry

Mother Emma Lois Bembry was born May 29, 1935, to the union of Alonzo and Clara Bembry. One of twelve, she was born and educated in rural farm country of Hawkinsville, GA.   Emma graduated from Hawkinsville High School and was affectionately known as “Lois” (Baby Sister).

As a child, she attended Lynwood Baptist Church in Hawkinsville, GA.

Following the great migration north, she moved to Detroit, MI.  Through the witness of Mable Crockett, she received Christ and was filled with the Holy Spirit in 1960.

She was united in fellowship with the Pentecostal Bible Way Church in Hamtramck, MI where she served in many roles for nearly 40 years under the leadership of Bishop Richard Crockett.   She was later part of Christ Tabernacle pastored by Bishop Bruce Leaman in Warren, Michigan and assisted in a church plant in Detroit, MI.

Although a single parent, she persevered through obstacles, pursued additional education, worked for, and retired from the Detroit Edison Company.   Her work ethic, commitment and diligence are evidenced in the legacy of her son and grandchildren. Mother Bembry loved to give back to others.  She taught Sunday School and impacted the lives of countless young men and women!  Many Sundays after church she would participate in services at nursing homes.  She loved to volunteer and gave of her time willingly at Beaumont Hospital in Michigan and Vista Hospital in Illinois.

Mother Bembry loved to sew and taught others to love and enjoy the craft of sewing.  She made many of her own clothes.  One word to describe Mother Bembry was “strong”.  Her faith in God was strong. Her love for the word of God was strong.  Her commitment to a holy lifestyle was strong.  Her tenacity to live a victorious life in Christ was strong.  Her teaching and leadership spirit was strong.  She persevered through sickness and was a strong witness for Christ.

Mother Bembry was preceded in death by her mother Clara Bozeman Bembry and father Alonzo Toby Bembry and nine other brothers and sisters. She leaves to celebrate her memory:  Pastor & First Lady Marvin & Darlene Bembry,  grandchildren -Marvin Bembry Jr., Tiffany Bembry, sisters - Thelma Love, Faye Kareem, nieces, nephews, cousins, members of churches in Illinois and Michigan and a host of other friends.