Richard Kemp

“...but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)

Richard Kemp was born on April 23, 1947 in Demopolis, Alabama. He passed away peacefully, on June 24, 2026, at Slidell Memorial Hospital in Slidell, LA.  He was 79 years young.

Richard was the eldest of nine siblings.  From a young age he displayed a kind heart and a deep love for family and loved ones.  He was friendly, laid-back, and always a pleasure to be around.  Employed as a truck driver, he enjoyed traveling throughout the United States.  Whether on the road or at home, he carried himself with quiet dignity and compassion.  He formed lasting connections through his kindness, humility, and peaceful nature.

He met and married "Janie" Ethel Robinson in 1992.  He relocated to Carriere, MS, making it his hometown and joined the New Hebron Baptist Church.  The couple built a beautiful life together filled with travel, good food, laughter, and cherished memories.

Richard was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charlie and Sussie Kemp; mother, Mrs. Mittie Kemp Rayby; sister, Joyce Kemp; brothers, William Earl Raby and L C Raby.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 34 years, Janie Ethel Kemp; his daughter, Aneka (Michael) Montgomery of Alabama; two stepsons, Michael Robinson of McNeil, MS and Anthony Neudeck of Kansas City, MO; sister, Betty Jo Hunt (Tom); brothers, Harold Kemp (Lorette), Derrick Rayby, Conie Le Rayby, Herman Rayby, all of Demopolis, AL; a devoted special cousin, Gwendolyn McMeans of Mobile, AL; and five grandchildren, Raylun and De'Mari Mongomery, Jaylon, Javaris and Jaiyah Robinson.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Brown’s Funeral Home, 1011 Rosa Street, Picayune, MS 39466. The funeral service will take place at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 3, 2026, at New Hebron Baptist Church. 111 Byrd Road, Carriere, MS 39426. Viewing will be from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Entrusted to Brown’s Funeral Home. Register Book, Obituary and driving direction can found on out website at www.brownsfuneralhomepicayune.com