Brian Joel Kemp

Brian Joel Kemp, known affectionately to friends and family as Brian, was a man who lived his life to the beat of his own drum-quite literally. Born on April 11, 1980, in Lansing, MI, Brian's zest for life and infectious laughter began spreading joy from the moment he arrived. On March 22, 2025, at the age of 44, Brian played his final encore in Charlotte, MI, leaving a melody in our hearts that will resonate forever.
Brian was the beloved son of Rheda Wilson and Joseph (Lorrie) Kemp. As the fourth born of his siblings-Valerie Kemp, Stephanie (Robert) Theodorou, Emanuel (Ashley) Kemp, and JoAnna (Cedrick) Giddens-Brian orchestrated a lifetime of mischief and memories. His many nieces and nephews will miss their fun-loving uncle, who always had a joke up his sleeve and a smile on his face. He also leaves behind many friends who loved him dearly, especially longtime friends, Gerard Richardson and Cortney Welz.
A man of many talents and interests, Brian was a maestro on the drums, a social media blogging wizard, had a love for photography and a sports enthusiast who bled the colors of his favorite teams, the New York Giants and the University of Miami. His love for theater was as grand as the performances he adored-always front row, clapping the loudest, laughing the heartiest, and perhaps singing a little off-key.
Generous to a fault, Brian gave not just his resources but his time and energy to anyone in need. His intelligence shone through in witty banter and thoughtful conversations, and his creativity was as boundless as his love for a good halftime show.
In the style of a true comedian, Brian lived by the words of the great Robin Williams: "You're only given a little spark of madness. You mustn't lose it." And lose it, he did not. Brian's spark of madness illuminated the lives of all who knew him, making the mundane magnificent and the serious, side-splitting.
Brian's life was a performance that earned a standing ovation. His curtain call may have come too soon, but the joy and laughter he brought to the world are as timeless as the classic comedies he loved. So, let's not say goodbye; let's say, "Intermission," because the memories of Brian Joel Kemp will continue to play on the grand stage of our hearts. Curtain up, light the lights, Brian, take your bow.
The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Delta Chapel, 6301 West St. Joe Highway, Lansing. Visitation will begin Monday at the funeral home at 1:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to National Alliance on Mental Illness-NAMI Michigan (namimi.org or 401 S Washington Square #104, Lansing, MI 48933) in Brian's memory, to support mental health awareness and assistance.