Hilda Jane Reese Hemphill

Hilda Jane Hemphill, 76 a cherished member of the Calhoun City community and a beloved sister and friend, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2025, in Cleveland, Mississippi. Born on August 14, 1948, in Houston, Mississippi, Hilda filled her years with a passion for music, education, and service that touched the lives of countless individuals.

A proud graduate of Calhoun City High School, Hilda was a vibrant member of her class of 1966. Her talents shone through as a cheerleader for both basketball and football, and she contributed her melodic voice to the Glee Club and chorus. Her exceptional abilities were recognized when she became a part of the Blazer 3 Trio, which triumphed in the mid-south talent competition and graced the stage of the prestigious Ted Mack Show.

Hilda’s fervor for education led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Delta State University and she dedicated her career to teaching at Shaw and Calhoun City Schools. A true advocate for her students she inspired generations of young minds before her retirement.

Family and faith played a central role in Hilda's life. She was deeply involved in the activities of Calhoun City First Baptist Church. From singing in the youth choir as a young girl and later in the adult choir to spreading her love of music and faith with all who listened. Her commitment extended beyond the church as she engaged actively in various civic affairs in her community.

Hilda is survived by her sister Betty Alice (Danny) Lindsey of Cleveland, MS; stepson Kurt (Selina) Hemphill of Mobile, Al; and sister-in-law Olivia Reese of Calhoun City, MS.

Hilda was preceded in death by her husband Delbert Hemphill; father Benjamin Howell Reese; Mother Alice Maxine Robertson Reese; and brothers Dr. Andy Reese and Benjamin Howell "Hal" Reese Jr.

A funeral service honoring Hilda's life will be held at the Calhoun City First Baptist Church on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 2:00 PM with Bro. Fred Hartley and Dr. Chad Logan officiating. A public visitation will precede the service beginning at 1:00 PM on Thursday, also at Calhoun City First Baptist Church. Hilda will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Vardaman, MS. Jefferson Gilder, Jimmy Hardin, Patrick Knight, Bo Lindsey, Ben Reese, and Boyd Wayne Robertson will be serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearer will be Jimmy Ball a classmate and a special friend to Hilda and the family.

As we come together to honor Hilda’s remarkable life, we reflect on the joy she brought to all and the lasting legacy she leaves behind in our hearts. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered.

Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hemphill family during this difficult season of life and ask that you remember them in your prayers.