Extracted from The Augusta Chronicle (Augusta, GA)
Friday, February 25, 2007

Mr. Edward Earl Semple, 95, entered eternal peace on February 23, 2007 at his residence at Brandon Wilde. Mr. Semple was a native of Pineville, LA.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday February 26, 2007 at Westover Memorial Park with the Rev. Bill Harrell pastor of Abilene Baptist Church and Rev. Barry Daniel officiating.

Earl Semple lived an amazing life and was grateful for each day that he could serve others. He had a servant's heart for the Lord and finished his life in faithful service. Mr. Semple was a retired businessman who owned and operated Semple Television and Radio Service in Longview, Texas. He served in the Navy during World War II. Mr. Semple was an active member of Thomas Road Baptist Church and proudly served as Co-founder of Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA before relocating to Augusta, GA where he was a member of Abilene Baptist Church. He served as Grand Monarch of the Lion's Club where he was an active member for over 44 years. He also served as a Mason for over 40 years. Before his retirement to Lynchburg, Virginia, Mr. Semple served as President of the Chamber of Commerce in Longview, TX.

Mr. Semple was preceded in death by his loving wife of 75 years, Ruth Lofton Semple. He is survived by his daughter Dr. Bobbie Ruth ElLaissi of Tybee Island, GA; three grandchildren; Fathy ElLaissi of Evans, Ruthie ElLaissi Foss of Brooklet, GA, and Melanie ElLaissi of San Francisco, CA; as well as four great grandchildren; Jay Hendley, Jamie Foss, Will ElLaissi, and Sarah Jane ElLaissi.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Sunday February 25, 2007 at Platt's Funeral Home Belair Rd.

Memorials may be made to Liberty University Scholarship Fund or Abilene Baptist Church Building Fund.

Platt's Funeral Home, 337 N. Belair Rd., Evans, Ga. 30809.