Jackson W. Kemp

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Sunrise: July 9, 1928

Sunset: June 26, 2020

Services: Tuesday, July 7, 2020 11AM

Viewing: 10AM

TL Hutton Family & Friends Funeral Services

 

Jackson William Kemp was born on July 9, 1928, to the late John “Babe” Kemp and the late Viola Hammond Kemp at the family homestead on Palmer Street in Riverside, NJ.  He transitioned to paradise on Friday, June 26, 2020, just a few weeks shy of his 92nd birthday.  Jackson grew up in the time of segregation and attended the Progress Street School.  Jackson’s grandfather, John Kemp, Sr., was one of the only African-Americans in the area to have his own store during that time which afforded Jackson many advantages; however, this did not prevent him from being quick to share what he had with his friends, both black and white.

On May 2, 1950, Jackson married the love of his life, the late Helen B. Kemp affectionately known as “Peggy”, and from that marriage, the couple had (6) children:  Dean, twins - Rodney (deceased) and Randall, Edward, Jacqueline and Annette.

Jackson served in the Navy during the 1950’s; and when he left the military, held various construction jobs until being disabled due to a back injury incurred while working.  This back injury led him to undergo surgery in the early 70’s and was the precipitant of a life-changing experience that set him on an entirely different course.  Although he had grown up in church and as an adult served as Trustee at First Baptist Church in Riverside, NJ; this one event left an indelible mark upon his soul which  deepened his faith and commitment to God.  One could liken it to the conversion that Paul had on the road to Damascus.  Following this renewal of faith, Jackson became a life-long spiritual pillar and staple at First Baptist and eventually became Deacon and held that post until his death.

Over the course of his life, Jackson had a large appetite for living it to the fullest; and always seemed to find favor with people and make the kind of impression that one could never forget. He had a personality larger than life and was indeed a force of nature.  He was always one to speak his mind and his truth whether others liked it or not.  Jackson was no stranger to the art of hustling and was a master at getting what he needed when he needed to provide for his family.  He was not afraid to show his sensitive side either, often being that person who cried while watching soap operas or a sad movie.  He let the tears flow and his emotions show without abandon.  He had a big heart and was always ready to lend a helping hand. In his later years, Jackson enjoyed going to Resorts International Casino in Atlantic City and was endearingly given the nickname of “Action Jackson” by the staff and his friends there at the casino.  He was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Jackson was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen “Peggy” Kemp; his only sibling, Wilton Kemp; son, Rodney Kemp; nephew, Devon Kemp. He leaves to mourn, his children: Dean Kemp; Randall Kemp (Lisa); Edward Kemp (Betsy); Jacqueline Kemp (Michael); Annette Best (Andre); sister-in-law, Yvonne Long; brother-in-law, Cordell Wise; niece, Denise Lott; daughters-in-law: Nancy Kemp and Nancy Smalls; a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.