Jay Harper Kemp

Coleman Funeral Home of Olive Branch It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Jay Harper Kemp, 68, who passed away peacefully at home on March 11, 2026. Friends are invited to a visitation with the family on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 12:00 pm until the time of the service at 2:00 pm at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. Interment will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery following the service. Bro. Michael Weeks will officiate. Jay was born in Lawrence, Kansas on November 26, 1957 to the late Thomas Andrew and Evelyn (Nelms) Kemp. He was a man whose life was defined by his deep love for his family, the outdoors, and the simple moments that brought people together. Above all else, he was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband who shared a special bond with his wife, built on years of commitment, laughter, and unwavering support. Together they created a home filled with love, strength, and memories that will be cherished forever. He was an incredibly proud father who loved his children beyond measure. His guidance, encouragement, and steady presence shaped their lives in countless ways. Whether offering advice, sharing stories, or simply being there when they needed him most, he was the kind of father every child hopes to have. One of the greatest joys of his life was being a grandfather. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and he treasured every moment he spent with them. Whether sharing stories, laughter, or simple everyday moments, he loved watching them grow and took immense pride in being their grandfather. The love he had for them was unconditional and will remain a lasting part of their lives. He also held a special place in his heart for his siblings. The bond they shared was rooted in a lifetime of memories, laughter, and support. Family meant everything to him, and those connections remained important to him throughout his life. When he wasn’t spending time with family, he could often be found outdoors doing what he loved most—hunting and fishing. Those peaceful moments in nature brought him joy and were often shared with family and friends. Whether it was early mornings in the woods or quiet afternoons by the water, those experiences were some of the moments he treasured most. He will be remembered for his kind heart, his love of the outdoors, and most importantly, the love he gave so freely to his family. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind. Though he will be deeply missed, the love he gave and the lessons he shared will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him forever. He is survived by his wife, Susan Rutherford Kemp; children, Chalet Kemp (Craig Kamyszek), Joshua Kemp (Simone), Cody Kemp (Alexandra); seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild; siblings, Dianne Barnack, Barbara “Babs” Moore (Jerry), Marilyn “Mari” Craddock (Bill Jr.), Andy Kemp (Paula). In lieu of traditional flowers, memorials may be made to the animal rescue charity of one’s choice or to Arbor Day Trees in Memory at https://shop.arborday.org, or to the charity of one’s choice. Online condolences can be written on his tribute wall at www.colemanfuneralhomeob.com.

Jay Harper Kemp

November 26, 1957 - March 11, 2026

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