Jerry W. Kemp
83, Columbia
Graveside services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 24, 2017, at Woodlawn Cemetery for Mrs. Jerry W. Kemp, 83, of Columbia, who died on Saturday, July 22, at her residence. Dr. J.D. Simpson, Dr. Bryant Barnes and Bro. Tom Thurman officiated at the services.
She was a loving mother and grandmother; her family said that she was the best mother and grandmother ever. She was the glue that held her family together and never uttered a bad word about anyone. She was a member First Baptist Church for over 55 years. She served as the director of WMU for 15 years at First Baptist Church. First Baptist Church recognized her for her tireless and devoted service to God through mission supports, promotion and study in February 2012. After being recognized by her church for her service, she quoted "Cooking and cleaning is work, serving our Lord is a joy." She was the tireless and devoted wife to Bob. He said, "He would make the living and she made it worth the living." At the birth of her oldest grandchild, Lee, she became known as "Munner." Her grandchildren loved her slightly burnt cookies. She was a graduate of Blue Mountain College with a degree in education. She taught English and Spanish.
She is survived by her two sons, Kevin Kemp (Ginny) and Christopher Kemp; one daughter, Carol Kemp Simpson (Dr. J.D.); one brother, Jesse Ray Wilkins Jr. (Callie); grandchildren, Kevin Lee Kemp Jr. (Catherine), Kailey L. Kemp, Robert Logan Kemp (Cameron), Chelsea E. Kemp, Christina L. Kemp, James Robert Simpson, Caroline Grace Simpson, Dawson Kemp Simpson, Anne Walker Simpson, Harrison W. Miller; great-grandchildren, Logan Holmes and Keaton George; brother-in-law, Dr. Russell L. Bourquein Jr.; nephews, Russ Bourquein, Robert Bourquein, David Bourquein, Jesse Ray "Trey" Wilkins III, Clay Eugene Wilkins and longtime friend and caregiver, Phylesia Ates.
In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations may be made to Camp Garraway 312 Camp Garraway Road, Clinton, MS 39056, Lottie Moon, or Annie Armstrong.
Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
