Benjamin Franklin Hemphill, devoted husband, father, grandfather

Benjamin “Frank” Franklin Hemphill, 89, passed away peacefully at his home Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025, from complications of Parkinson’s Disease. He was born Jan. 21, 1936, in Lincoln, Neb., and was always proud of his Midwestern roots. 

Frank graduated from University of Nebraska and then received his MS in library science from Rutgers University in 1960. His first and only job in Baltimore was at Baltimore County Public Libraries, where he managed the Bookmobile and was later promoted to assistant director for facilities. Among the highlights of his career was his involvement with the interior design and décor of the new Cockeysville and Towson Libraries, where his talents in assessing community needs, planning for flexible and accessible technology, and integrating spaces that cater to diverse user groups while designing comfortable seating and natural lighting were realized. He retired from BCPL in 1990. 

Frank sat on multiple boards and committees in Baltimore during his 30-year tenure. In addition, he was an active member and leader within the American Library Association and, through that work, not only published articles and spoke at innumerable conferences based on his expertise about library buildings and their functions, but was also a key contributor to the 1983 revision of The American Library Association’s Guidelines and Standards for Public Libraries.

After his retirement, Frank’s expertise in library design led him to consulting with library staff and architects in over 30 public and private libraries across the country to ensure that the ALA standards and guidelines for library design, as well as the needs of the community, the library, and its patrons, were reflected in the architectural design of the building.

Frank’s intellectual approach to problems, his extensive knowledge on many subjects, his sense of humor, his charisma, and his bright-eyed laughter, as well as his ability to listen and support others in their thinking, will be missed. In addition, his love for his dogs and for driving both cars and motorcycles helped to define him throughout his life.

Frank retired to Rehoboth Beach and later to Fort Myers, Fla., where he could appreciate the beach, warmth, and sun. His homes were always open to his family, where all were welcome and enjoyed time together and building memories. 

Frank was predeceased by his parents, Benjamin Franklin and Arlene Dorothy Hemphill; and his brother, Paul Hemphill. Frank predeceased his older sister, Nancy Dawson, of Lincoln, Neb., by only two weeks. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Hemphill; daughters, Catherine Armstrong (Rick) and Laura Hemphill; his grandchildren, Brittney Hughes (Jason), Nick DeFelice (Kelly), Ben DeFelice (Christy) and Jacob Armstrong. He is also survived by nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Frank’s deep and unconditional love for and devotion to his family defined him. Each one brought joy to his life every single day.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21, at All Saints’ Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach.