One of the best ever left the range - Philip Hemphil suddenly died this morning!

I don't even know where to begin - I and we all have lost one of the best and nicest human been and top 10 precision shooters!  It is devastating and unfair!

I got to know Philip while attending his Clinic in spring of 2020.  We became friends then, and Philip was curious about Aperture Rings.  Once he tried, he became early adopter and supporter.  We have stayed in touch ever since.  He was always the most supporting person, this gentle giant!  And always polite and greeting with a smile and always adding "Sir!" to greeting! 

I feel, that I lost part of myself!




AP

This is a terrible loss.

I know I'll be only one of many, many tributes to Phil, but I feel obligated to express my sorrow at his passing. I was not his intimate, just an acquaintance. But, I was around him enough over the last 10 years to know him as a fine, humble man. I'll always remember this many-time Police and Bullseye champion helping prepare and serve lunch to us at Mid Carolina Gun Club. God bless his soul and his family. RIP. 

Russell Gill

Sad news. I got to shoot next to him a few times and as well as being a great guy, he kept me laughing throughout the matches. A wonderful sense of humor.

Stephen

We are indeed diminished.

A gentleman indeed, to be missed.

Condolences for the family and friends

When I got that call this morning, I was driving and had to pull over. I still have a heavy feeling in my chest.
I had the pleasure of meeting Philip at my 2nd or 3rd match.
I shot between he and Mr Charlie that first day and I had no idea who he was other than a friendly guy with a firm handshake.
Over the last 7-8 years, he came over and shot with us every chance he had and brought Mr Charlie and Lamar often.

After we shot together a couple of times, we found we had a lot in common other than shooting and we have spoke or texted regularly since. He was always there to help with advice and encouragement.
Our conversation usually wandered from shooting to grandkids and then turkey or squirrel hunting.
We had several conversations about the blessing GOD had given us and am happy to know he woke up this morning in Heaven.
I am honored to call him a friend.

He will be missed……..

I often spent time in his shadow.
RIP, Great One.

Condolences to his family.

I’d been meaning to call him to talk bullseye. This was on my mind regularly, life was getting the way. I regret not following up with him immensely.

https://www.ssusa.org/content/legends-philip-hemphill-1952-2023/

When the CMP was running 2700 Bullseye Matches, Phil shot in one of the Talladega matches, and shot an outstanding 22lr match that day. I got his permission to get a hard copy from the range.





this is Phil's at the end of the 22lr Match, on a 25 yard reduced target. His 90 shot composite group is nicely centered.





this was the 22lr he used that day