Otis Neil Kemper, born on September 7, 1941, in Trinity County, Helmic, Texas, to James Otis Kemper and Rosa Belle (Tullos) Kemper, passed away on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, in Lufkin, Texas.
Neil attended school in Centerville-Groveton, Texas, during his childhood years before his family moved to Groveton, Texas, where he graduated from Groveton High School in the class of 1960. After graduation, he attended Stephen F. Austin University.
In 1962, Neil met the love of his life, Shirley (King), and they were wed on August 24, 1962, in Groveton, Texas, at the Groveton Church of Christ. Neil had a special gift for serving the Lord, working primarily as a minister, and sharing God's word for over fifty years until his retirement. In addition to his ministry, he worked in the housing industry to help others and spent numerous years in the insurance industry.
Mr. Kemper was a man of many interests. He loved motorcycle riding, mowing the yard, cooking, and gardening, and was especially known for his successful produce. He enjoyed studying with people and always treasured visiting with them. Neil was knowledgeable about historical facts and loved sharing his wisdom with others.
Neil is survived by his daughter, Sandra Perez, and her husband, Rafael, of Groveton; his son, James Kemper, and his wife, Melissa, of Groveton; his son, Thomas Jason Kemper, and his wife Pam, of Groveton; his daughter, Dana Ayala, and her husband, Juan, of Groveton; his grandchildren: April Perez Bray and her husband, Sean, Kelby Perez and his wife, Bethany, Weston Osorio-Cavness, Brandon Kemper, Alysse Cavness, D'neilia Casas, Fernanda Ayala, Kirsten Garbs, and David Ayala; and his great-grandchildren: Giosue Velazquez, Armani Velazquez, Jaslene Velazquez, Katherine Bray, Emma Bray, Declan Bray, Sienna Casas, and Isla Lynette. A host of other relatives and friends also survive him.
Mr. Kemper was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Kemper, in 2021; his son, Neil Kemper, Jr.; his mother, Rosa Belle Kemper; his father, James Otis Kemper; and his sister, Roselle Kemper.
The family will receive visitors on Saturday, August 31, 2024, beginning at 9 AM at Groveton Funeral Home in Groveton, Texas. Funeral services will begin at 10 AM at Groveton Funeral Home, with Pastor Dr. Keith Jones officiating and Pastor Tony Goins assisting. Interment will follow in Bennett Cemetery.
Pallbearers will include Brandon Kemper, Kelby Perez, David Ayala, Giosue Velazquez, Armani Velazquez, and Scotty King.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Groveton Church of Christ, Centrailia Church of Christ, or the Groveton Ex-Students Association.
________________________________________
This tribute captures the essence of Mr. Kemper's life and the legacy he leaves behind.