**In Loving Memory of Garry Curtis Kemp**

January 3, 1931 - March 10, 2024

Garry Curtis Kemp, a beacon of love and faith, passed into eternal rest on March 10, 2024 at the age of 93. Born to Pearl and Lawson Kemp, and raised alongside his sister Betty in Hazel Park, Michigan.  Garry's high school years were marked by a passion for basketball and countless hours spent alongside his father, tinkering with cars.  Garry's remarkable journey through life left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A testament to courage and duty, Garry proudly served his country from 1951-1954 in the United States Air Force.  Garry was an Intelligence Operations Specialist, responsible for gathering vital information that was used for military operations during the Korean War.  He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant and earned the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. But his legacy extends far beyond his military service.

Garry loved deeply. His deep and abiding love for Jesus shaped and created the foundation upon which he built his relationships and his entire life. His love for his family knew no limits and can be best described as sacrificial. When his first wife, Bonnie, was diagnosed with cancer, the family was living in Denver, Colorado. Bonnie just wanted to be closer to her mother and sisters residing in Vivian, Louisiana. Garry, working for Martin Marietta (presently Lockheed Martin), gave up a vested career, took a lesser-paying job in Camden, Arkansas, enabling Bonnie to live a very fulfilling and joyful life for many more years in the presence of her loving family. His life was a tapestry of selfless acts, underscored by his unwavering commitment to his loved ones, even in times of personal hardship.

Beyond the call of family and career, Garry was a devout follower of Christ. His faith was the cornerstone of his existence, guiding his every action and decision. An enthusiastic participant in his church choir, his hobbies included studying the Bible, enjoying the great outdoors through hunting and fishing, and cherishing time spent with friends and family amidst laughter and love. Garry's humor and jovial nature made every moment with him a memory to treasure.

Garry was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Pearl and Lawson Kemp; his sister, Betty (Bruce) Thompson; his first wife, Leila (Bonnie) Yvonne Kemp and his second wife, Willie Jean Kemp.  Garry married the love of his life, Bonnie Burney on January 13,1954 and remained happily married until her passing in1986.  After a decade, Garry remarried Willie Jean Ezell on December 15, 1996 and remained happily married until her passing on November 14, 2021.

He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and joy among his beloved family:  children Karen (Fred) Gowdy, Kris Flores, Scott (Lynne) Kemp, Deidre (Darrin) Pierce; grandchildren Brieanna (Preston) Mercer, Clay Pierce, Kristen (Eddie) Smith; Michael Kemp, Mitchell (Morgan) Kemp, Matthew (Carman) Kemp, Alexandria Kemp and great-grandchildren Micah Mercer, Dean Smith, Avalynn Kemp, Annistyn Kemp, August Kemp, Kayden Kemp. Stepsons Darrell (Tonya) Ezell and Gerald (Donna) Ezell.   Each of them embodies a piece of Garry's immense love and spiritual legacy.

Garry's remarkable journey through life left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His departure is deeply mourned by a devoted family and an extensive network of friends and acquaintances, all of whom were immeasurably enriched by his presence in their lives.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the compassionate caregivers at Dudneywood Assisted Living, Silver Oaks Health and Rehab Nursing Home, and especially his dear friend Margie Burnell from Sweet Home Elderly Care and OCMC Hospice, who provided Garry with love and comfort in his final days.

As we prepare to bid farewell to Garry, let us gather not in sorrow, but in gratitude for the precious moments we were blessed to share with him. Let us carry forward his legacy of kindness, devotion, and laughter. Though he has left our side, his spirit and teachings remain with us, guiding us towards a life lived with purpose and love. Well done good and faithful servant. Rest in peace, dear Garry, until we are all reunited in eternal joy.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 12:00PM at Mount Gilead Cemetery in Vivian, LA. A visitation will be held at Proctor Funeral Home on Friday, March 15, 2024 from 5:00PM-7:00PM. Proctor Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.