James "Jimmy" Maynard Kemp

James (Jimmy) Kemp, of Caldwell, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on May 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda, with whom he shared nearly sixty years of marriage; their sons and daughters‑in‑law, Jimmy and Priscilla, Leonard and Melissa; their daughter Michelle and son‑in‑law Robbie Chmelar; his brothers Leonard West and Larry Kemp, who also served in the Army; and his sisters Annet Simmons and Theresa Zamora. He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren and great‑grandchildren, including several namesakes who carry forward his legacy with pride. He also leaves many nieces and nephews who love him dearly.

He and Linda opened their home and hearts to others throughout their lives, fostering and mentoring nearly 30 children, young people, and family members. Their home was a place of refuge, guidance, and unconditional love.

He is preceded in death by his sister Charlene Scott, who had served in the Army.

James and Linda were married on December 23, 1966—Linda’s birthday—a date he honored every year with gifts of jewelry to celebrate both her birthday and their anniversary. His devotion to her was one of the defining joys of his life.

A proud veteran, he served in the United States Air Force for six years. His patriotism continued long after his military service through his involvement with the local American Legion’s Disabled American Veterans (DAV) chapter.

His faith was the foundation of his life. He loved the Lord deeply and found joy in singing praises and worship. He dedicated 55 years to serving in the Assembly of God’s Royal Rangers, a calling he first felt while in the Air Force. He poured his heart into mentoring boys and young men, teaching them to grow into Godly men, husbands, and fathers.

A gifted heavy‑duty diesel mechanic, he worked for Mustang, Texcon, J & J Transportation, and friends throughout the Cooks Point community. He especially treasured the time spent teaching his grandsons—Justin, Ty, and Jared—the art of “mechanicing,” passing down both skill and confidence.

His commitment to community ran deep. He served on the Cooks Point Community Water Board, mentored students in the Caldwell High School Ag program, and umpired Little League baseball in Angelina and Burleson Counties. Wherever he went, he invested in people.

Above all, his greatest joy came from time spent with his grandchildren and great‑grandchildren. Their laughter, milestones, and everyday moments were the memories he cherished most.

James lived a life of service, faith, and steadfast love. His legacy endures in the countless lives he touched, the young people he guided, and the family who will forever carry his spirit in their hearts.

Pallbearers: Justin Kemp, Ty Kemp, Nathan Wright, Jared Stevenson, Burtis Morse and Howard West

Honorary Pallbearers: Kaylor Koonse, Roy Norman, Tim Walkoviak, Donald Stokley and Cary Smith

In lieu of flowers you may make donations to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) local chapter # 86 mailing your check to Tina Smith 7345 CR 135 Somerville, TX 77879 on the memo write James Kemp.