J C Kemp

J. C. Kemp, 93, of Perry, Florida passed away peacefully on November 19th, 2025, in his hometown. He was born January 16th, 1932, in Perry, where he spent nearly his entire life rooted in the people and places he loved.

JC proudly served in the United States Air Force from around 1952 to 1960. After completing his service, he began a long and dedicated career with the Florida Department of Transportation, retiring on November 31st, 1994. He approached his work with the same determination and grit that defined his character throughout life.

Those who knew JC will remember him most for his larger-than-life personality. Charismatic, stubborn and endlessly fun-loving, he had a gift for drawing people in with his stories, his humor, and his unmistakable presence. His passions were simple and sincere - fishing, good company, an eye for a pretty woman, and the occasional cold Miller. He lived his life on his own terms and enjoyed every moment of it.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace C. Kemp and Mamie Murphy Kemp; his siblings, Shirley Kemp and Claude Kemp; and his nieces Sherry Feagle and Jennifer Tamme.

He is survived by his daughters, Vickie Howell (Shannon Howell), Amy Bayes (Michael Bayes), and Sonja Borklund; his granddaughters, Makaila Howell, Gracie Bayes, Casey Borklund and grandson Michael Borklund; and a large loving extended family of nieces and nephews: Joy Proudman (Shawn Proudman), Scott Kemp (Balinda Kemp), Lisa Swindle, Lee Tamme, Kimberly Tamme, John Tamme (Kasey Tamme), Caitlin Proudman, Savannah Kinsey (Cade Kinsey), Justin Kemp, Ethan Proudman, David Reischl, Kiley Tamme, Trenton Bell, Elizabeth Tamme, JC Swindle, Gage Bell, Arie Trujillo, Claudiah Kinsey, John IV (LJ) Tamme, and Kash Kinsey.

JC will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him - and by the many who were lucky enough to hear one of his unforgettable stories.

A "Celebration of Life" will be held at a later date to be announced.