David Embry

Mr. David Lee Embry (Embrey) Sr. passed away Monday, May 11, 2026, at his residence in Lansing, Michigan. Age 75 years. He was born January 15th, 1951, in Talladega Alabama, to James Robert Sr. and Rosie Lee Embry. David was the second eldest of 12 children.

His parents moved the family from Alabama to Michigan in the mid 50’s. David attended public schools in Lansing, Michigan. David was a jack of all trades working as a contractor, car salesman, chef, artist, and auto mechanic. When he told his mom he did not like any of the BBQ sauce on the market she told him, “Well make your own” and that is what he did and “That’s a Wrapp” was born. David would hook up his double barrow smoker to the back of his car. He set up a food stand cooking ribs and chicken with That’s a Wrapp and people would line up to get a taste and often wanted to buy some sauce to take home. He also had a deal with several grocery stores in the area where they sold That’s a Wrapp.

David was part of the family Gospel group the Embry Gospel Singers. Where he sang with his mom, brother and sisters and touched the heart of many people for the Lord. He also found joy and peace when he went to some remote place with his fishing pole and bait. He could spend hours just his pole and the fish, many of which he would bring home and fry up for dinner.

David is survived by his five daughters, Amanda Hall, Erika (Joash) Wahonya, Laura Embry, DeAndra Embry, and Angela Embry; one son, David Embry Jr.; eighteen grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren. Along with his four sisters, Willie Mae “Sista” (O’Neil) Carter, Rosemary “Ma” Embry-Robinson, Linda Joiner, and Emily “Treacie” (Samuel) Childress, Yalanda (Kenneth) Frasier; three brothers, Stanley Embry, Ronald “Ronny” (Darlene) Embry, Douglas “Doug” Embry; many other relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was proceeded in death by his first wife, Patricia Embry and second wife, Peggy Embry; parents, James Robert and Rosie Lee Embry; four siblings, James Embry Jr., Parry Embry, Katherine Benson, and Dennis “Denny Boy” Embry.