Obituary of Arthur Walter Hemmings

Arthur Walter Hemmings, 86, of St. Petersburg passed away April 15, 2023 at his home in St. Petersburg. Art was born May 16th, 1936 in Long Valley, New Jersey. He was preceded in death by his parents Jeanette and Walter Hemmings. Art is survived by 9 children, 11 grandchildren and 12 greatgrandchildren.

Art lived an exciting and colorful life before he found the Merchant Marines, at which point his life took on a global flair, and he loved to tell stories of his multiple trips to the orient and recounting the number of times he had gone around the world. After escaping the cold of New Jersey, Art moved to St. Petersburg in 1978 and found a community that he enjoyed being a part of. As his sailing days came to an end, Art found a new passion in helping guide the Marine Engineers Benevolent Association. He found purpose in his time at the MEBA union hall, giving advice, advocating for “his” sailors and enjoyed listening to and telling stories while have a beer or two with the members of his union.

Art enjoyed his time on the water whether it was traversing the globe or fishing in his boat. He loved baseball and playing the stock market. And while expressing how he felt wasn’t always the easiest thing in the world for him, he loved his sons and daughters.

Art will certainly be missed by his many friends and family. In lieu of flowers, Art’s family asks that a donation be made in Art’s name to St. Judes.