Barbara Kemp

Barbara Mae Young Free Kemp, age 98, of Crestview, Florida, passed away on January 25, 2026, to join her Lord and Savior.

Barbara was born on January 4, 1928, in New Rochelle, New York, the only child of Alton P. Young and Ruth B. Young.

She briefly worked outside the home as a receptionist in a medical office, but her first and greatest love was being a homemaker. Barbara devoted her life to her home and family, finding joy in caring for those she loved. She enjoyed gardening, swimming, reading, playing games—especially cards—working puzzles, spending time with her family, and volunteering at church.

Barbara was a faithful member of Woodlawn Baptist Church. She volunteered faithfully until her late 80s, serving in the church nursery, helping with children’s programs including Vacation Bible School, and participating in local mission work. She also went on mission trips to Honduras, always eager to serve wherever she was needed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Kemp; her granddaughter, Katlyn Free Hulion; Heather Kemp; her son-in-law, Glenn Batton; her son, Jerry Kemp; and Sarah.

She is survived by her daughters, Carol Batton and Sheila Kemp Locke; her sons, James E. Free Jr. (Mary Ann), Keith Free (Teresa Epperson), Quentin Kemp (Kathy), Charles Kemp, and Keith Kemp (Terry). She is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

The family would like to extend special thanks to her devoted caregiver, Kim Reppert, for her care, kindness, and faithfulness.

A gathering of family and friends will be held Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Evans Funeral Home in Florala, Alabama, at 3:00 p.m., with Brother Bob McNeil officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Paxton Cemetery.