Retired CMSgt Oris A. “Red” Kemp, of Bossier City, Louisiana was born in Kimball, West Virginia on July 12, 1931 and departed this life on Saturday, October 31, 2009 at the age of 78. Oris officially served his country for 22 years, achieving the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the highest enlisted level of leadership in the United States Air Force. His tour of duty spanned both the Korean and Vietnam Wars and included assignments in Thailand, Guam, England, Canada and several U. S. locations. He retired from the Air Force in 1974, however his love of service for country and freedom was exhibited by his years of relentless efforts on behalf of the Veterans of Foreign Wars since his retirement. He served as State Commander and in countless other roles on behalf of the VFW. He attended over 4,000 funerals and events on behalf of the 12th District Honor Guard, conducting full military funerals for fellow veterans. Oris played a vital role in bringing the Northwest Louisiana War Veterans Home to its present location in Bossier city, LA and the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemeteries in Keithville, LA. Oris was a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is survived by his children, Oris Kemp, Dianna Kemp Nussbaum, Laurie Kemp Amantia, Edmund Kemp, Carol Kemp, Eric Kemp; respected spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Oris also leaves behind his sister, Katheryn Bivens; his aunt, Oleita Weeks; and his extended family as well as many dear friends. Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4th. Services will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2009, in the Chapel of Osborn Funeral Home with the Chaplain Jim Brooks of Overton Brooks VA officiating. Military Rites will be conducted by the 12th District, Dept. of LA, Veterans of Foreign Wars-Honor Guard at 1:00 p.m. Thursday at the NW Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, 7970 Mike Clark Rd., Keithville, LA. A reception at the VFW Post 4588, 1004 Jeter St., Bossier City, LA 71111, will immediately follow. For those desiring, contributions in memory of Oris A. “Red” Kemp can be made to the 12th District Honor Guard, c/o VFW Post 4588, 1004 Jeter St., Bossier City, LA 71111. Ret. CMSgt Oris A. “Red” Kemp has now passed true to his beloved Air Force motto “UNO AB ALTO”-One Overall-in the hearts, memories and love of family, friends, servicemen and countrymen to his final flight amongst the heavens.
Print Obituary