Dr. James A Kemp, Iii

Dr. James A Kemp, III, passed away peacefully at his home on April 24, 2024 under the care of St. Anthony’s Hospice. He was born in San Diego, CA on April 1, 1945 to Winona and James A Kemp, Jr. He was a graduate of Mt. Miguel High School in Spring Valley, CA. Jim earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Meteorology and Mathematics at Florida State University. Remaining at F.S.U., he completed his Masters of Arts Degree in Slavic Languages and earned his PhD. In Education Administration and Foreign Language Education. He was a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Kappa Delta Pi and Alpha Mu Gamma honor societies.

Jim began his 45 year career in education as a high school science and math instructor and department chair in Monticello, FL. He was Program Director at the Florida Department of Education for 8 years before accepting a position as Assistant Superintendent of Schools at Danbury, TX. Jim served as Superintendent of Schools at Haskell, TX and at Royal I.S.D. in Pattison, TX. He was Superintendent of Schools at Stuttgart, AR before accepting a position as Superintendent for the Covington, Kentucky Public Schools. Prior to his retirement, Jim led Webster County, KY schools as Superintendent for over 10 years. Jim was a member of numerous professional and community organizations throughout his career including the KY School Board Association where he served as Regional Secretary.

Jim was a member of Henderson First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed growing chestnut trees, model railroading, train watching and was a member of the Madisonville, KY chapter of the National Railroad Historical Society. Above all else, Jim loved spending time with his grandsons.

Jim is survived by his wife, Catheryn; three sons James A Kemp IV of Los Angeles, CA, Richard Morley Kemp of Atlanta, GA and Mark Jones (Alison) of Evansville, IN. He also leaves behind his two grandsons, Jack and Wyatt Jones; sister Patrice Ellen Perkins, nieces, grand-nieces and nephews.

The family will treasure the many prayers and expressions of love and support from Jim’s church, family, friends and loved ones during his final battle with Parkinson’s Disease. A private memorial service is planned for a future date.

Tomblinson Funeral Home Henderson Chapel is handling arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to First United Methodist Church, Henderson, KY, St. Anthony’s Hospice Henderson, KY or The Parkinson’s Foundation.