John Shanley Embree

Lt. Col. John Shanley Embree, United States Air Force (ret.), of Sherwood, passed away on Jan. 16, 2022, at the age of 90. He was born in Princeton, Ind., on Oct. 03, 1931, to Mary Iona and Morton Embree. He attended high school in Princeton, received his undergraduate degree from Omaha University in 1966, and received his Master's Degree from Webster University while in the service in Arkansas. Jack met the love of his life, Winifred, while serving in Evreux, France, where she was working as a civilian teacher for the military. They married on June 23, 1962. He served in both the Korean War (U.S. Army Infantry Division) and the Vietnam War (U.S.A.F. Navigator for C-130s), and was awarded many honors, including the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, Air Medal, and several Meritorious Service Medals. Later in his military career, he served as Squadron Commander of the Operational Maintenance Squadron. He retired after more than 25 years of combined service (21-plus years in the U.S.A.F. and 3-plus years in U.S. Army). Following his retirement, he continued to serve his country as the Director of the Arkansas Veterans Home in Little Rock. He loved his country and was always known as a man of integrity and courage. Jack also truly enjoyed his retirement; especially spending time with his family, friends and neighbors. He loved a good Western book and was very handy. In fact, he made sure his daughters could drive a manual transmission automobile and change their own tires, and always taught them to be strong and independent. He was preceded in death by his wife, Winifred Embree; his parents, Morton and Mary Iona Embree; his sister, Miriam Embree; and his brother, Morton Embree. He is survived by his three daughters, Ruth Haefner (Chris), Paris Embree (Michael Sternberg), and Amy Embree (Richard Friess); four grandchildren, Andrew, Lauren, Braedon, and Casey; and his sister, Barbara Green. Jack was truly loved and will be missed by all. A funeral will be held at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W. Maryland Ave., North Little Rock, on Thursday, Jan. 27, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Arkansas State Veterans Home, 2401 John Ashley Dr., North Little Rock, Ark. 72114. Arrangements by Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home. Please visit www.smithfamilycares.com for online guestbook.