Leon Napoleon Hemphill

Leon Hemphill, of Smithville, was born March 5, 1931 to Oma and Edith Hemphill of Red Rock. He passed from this life on Thursday, February 19, 2015 at the age of 83 years. Leon served in the US Navy during the Korean War. He earned his barber’s license in 1956 and was a barber in Austin for many years. He later went to work for the MKT “Katy” Railroad in Smithville as a brakeman. After retirement, he opened a barber shop behind his home and had many loyal, regular customers. Leon was also well known as a lifelong musician and played with bands all across Central Texas. He is survived by: his son, Don and wife Sheri Hemphill; grandchildren, Matthew and Madison; a brother, Frank and wife Carolyn; sisters, Janell and husband Ralph, Wilma and husband Harry; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends. The family extends a special Thank You to Doris Hemphill for her loving care during Leon’s last days. Visitation will be 1:00pm Sunday, February 22, 2015 at Bastrop Providence Funeral Home with funeral services at 2:00pm at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Bateman Cemetery in Bateman.