Steven Kemp

Steven T. Kemp, 78, of Missouri City, TX, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025. Born on November 11, 1946 in Houston, TX to Samuel and Florence, he enjoyed spending his childhood in Galveston. He joined the US Coast Guard in 1964 and served during the Vietnam War.

Steve was a lifelong musician. Known in recent years by his stage name, Stevie DuPree, he was a soulful singer and songwriter and was a talented blues harmonica player. He was a member of the Houston Blues Society, serving as vice president in 2011. He was also the representative for the solo/duo category of the Houston Blues Society at the International Blues Challenge held in Memphis, Tennessee for the years 2008-2010. Stevie DuPree has released several albums and was nominated for multiple awards. His legacy will live on in the stories and soul from his lyrics.

In addition to performing, Steve was also a talented custom guitar builder. It was common to receive one of his unique, handmade creations as a gift for almost any occasion. The care and detail was evident in every one of these magical instruments.

Steve was also an avid fisherman. He was known to frequent the piers around Galveston, always with his sweetie, Juanita, and always hoping the specs were running.

With a passion for Houston sports, Steve was a lifelong Astros fan.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie; his children, Colin (Julie) Kemp, Casey (Tobye) Kemp, and Libbie (Tom) Drinkwater; and his grandchildren, Jade, Aiden, Kassidy, and Xilah. His passing was preceded by his parents and his brother, Pat.

A celebration of life will be held on April 5, 2025, at the VFW in Missouri City, TX, where friends and family will gather to honor his memory and legacy and, of course, boogie down.