Mr. Lelias Kemp

September 9, 1946 - January 26, 2021

Lelias Kemp, a loving Brother, Brother-in-law, Uncle, Great-Uncle, Cousin, and Friend stepped from this life into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, January 26, 2021. As he did in life, he made this journey alone except for the love and comfort of Jesus. Although he never had material possessions, wealth, or even the love and companionship of his own family being single, he was wealthy beyond anything he could have ever imagined. He had true friends that were like a brother and loved him and shared their lives and their families with him. (Howard Pruitt, Larry Terrance, Bill, Pete Watson, and others). He was loved by his neighbors and all children that ever had the privilege to be blessed by him. He gave to his neighbors and children in his neighborhood and his family. Through the years he spent his small amounts of money to help the poor although by most standards he was considered poor himself. He had no greater joy than to be able to give to those in need or those he loved. He always gave to others even when he needed things himself. He quit school in his Senior year to go to work and put food on the table for his mom and dad (who were disabled) and his four brothers. He loved giving gifts to his nieces and nephews growing up and wanted nothing more than to spend time with them. He was saved in 2009 and baptized in the river at his brother Rick’s house, although he had already spent his life doing the things JESUS teaches us all to do. Some would say he lived a sad, poor, life, but those that knew him would say when he met Jesus he was told, “Welcome Home, my good and faithful servant in whom I am well pleased.” Lelias was preceded in death by his parents, James and Frances Kemp; and brother, R.G. Kemp. He is survived by his brothers, Rick (Renee) Kemp, James Harold Kemp, and Nicky (Sharon) Kemp; and several nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, January 28, 2021 at Oak Hill Cemetery. Luke Parker will officiate. Special thanks to lifelong friend, Howard Pruitt; and also to Larry Terrance, Sonny Taylor, and Mike Moon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to 12th Street Baptist Church: Taste of Hope Fund. Due to COVID-19, masks will be required for attendance, and we ask that all attendees socially distance.