He was a retired Industrial Engineer, entrepreneur, and business owner, United States Air Force Veteran, and member of First Baptist Church of Monticello. Gene had many hobbies and interests including fishing, playing golf, dancing, reading, restoring antique cars, training squirrel dogs and hunting, studying the Bible and teaching Sunday School, restoring airplanes and piloting, cooking and grilling, and studying World War II. He was also a stock car racer in his younger years. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by two daughters, Natalie Kemp Graves and Rebecca Socia.
Gene is survived by his wife, Linda Ann Kemp of Monticello; a son, Tommy Woods of Monticello; grandchildren, Matthew Dunn of Hampton, Haley Woods Chambliss of Star City, and Jordan Socia Nolan of Banks; two brothers, Paul Kemp and wife Judy of Madison, IN and Tommy Kemp and wife Carolyn of Hanover, IN; one sister, Marcia Cranfield of Kentucky; great-grandchildren, Trevor, Conner, London, John Haze, and Luke (on the way); numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and many brothers and sisters in Christ.
Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 23, 2022, at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Chapel with Rev. Kelly Jones, Rev. Gary Carter, and Rev. Kenny Worbington officiating. There will be a visitation from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Sunday evening at the funeral home. Burial will be in Campground Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations made to your favorite charity.
You can sign Gene's guestbook page at www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(18)
Maria Daniels
Monticello, AR Wednesday, May 25, 2022 Linda just now read about Gene's passing. You and family are in my prayers.Jimmy & Cheri Price
Maumelle, AR Wednesday, May 25, 2022 I just saw where Gene had passed away. I am so so sorry to hear that. I have so many fond memories of Gene. Cheri & I will join so many that are praying for Linda and the family.KC Gage
Monticello, Tuesday, May 24, 2022 Mr Gene was a friend to my father but I got to know him when he would come into my business for parts. He was always working on a new project whenever he came through and we’d talk for a little while. He always impressed me with his knowledge of so many different things. My condolences to the family on on their loss.Judy Holaway
Jonesboro, AR Monday, May 23, 2022 Linda and Jordan I am so very sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.Sherri Risher Hunter
Houston, TX Monday, May 23, 2022 Here’s a fun memory! You came to Houston to visit mama and daddy. Drove your beautiful convertible and so it would be protected you parked under the awning behind the gate. I guess you left the keys in it. My brother Jack was 4-5 years old decided to sit in your car and pretend he was driving! He did in fact, drive it into the side of the house! Im sure you’re having an awesome reunion this morning! We’ll see you soon! ❤️Gary Matheny
Monticello, AR Sunday, May 22, 2022 The hurt is deep for us who have known Gene, he was admirable person for strength in humanity with his fellow man, so willing help friends with problems real or imagined, dedication to family and friends was exemplified in his many acts service to his Church and community. He was my friend for 50 years I am honored for that.Gloria Ryburn
Monticello, AR Sunday, May 22, 2022 Linda, I was so sorry to hear . Gene and Ronnie were friends for many years. And I’ll always remember you both for helping me through my sorrow. Prayers for you and family , Love and GOD bless youGary Matheny
Monticello, AR Saturday, May 21, 2022 The hurt is deep for us who have known Gene, he was admirable person for strength in humanity with his fellow man, so willing help friends with problems real or imagined, dedication to family and friends was exemplified in his many acts service to his Church and community. He was my friend for 50 years I am honored for that.Lydia Lowery
Collins, AR Saturday, May 21, 2022 I am sorry to here about Gene passing. Sending prayers.Joyce yates smith
Monticello, AR Saturday, May 21, 2022 So sorry for the families loss. Remember when I met you all; “the descendants of the Yates family. “ praying for all.Wayne and Tonya Hudgens
Hot Springs, AR Saturday, May 21, 2022 So very sorry for your loss, keeping your family in our prayers.Sonny and Alice Hill
Warren, AR Friday, May 20, 2022 Linda and family, our hearts are saddened by Gene’s passing. We will never forget the great fellowship we had with you all over the years. Our love and prayers are with you.David Matheny
Springdale, AR Friday, May 20, 2022 My prayers and thoughts for the family during this season.I am thankful for, and will always remember Gene for being a true friend to my father over these 50+ years or so.
God Bless.
James and Kathy Berry
Monticello, AR Friday, May 20, 2022 Linda and FamilyWe are so sorry for the loss of Gene. James loved his teaching in Sunday School. We both count Gene as one of our good friends. You are in our prayers.
Love you
James and Kathy
Gloria Dickinson Browder
Monticello, AR Friday, May 20, 2022 Oh Linda I’m so sorry you lost Gene. I cherish the friendship with you and Gene. I’m praying for you at this sad time.Billy Collins
Little Rock, AR Friday, May 20, 2022 Linda Mary & I enjoyed our times at Calvary with you & Gene. You & family are in our prayers. Billy CollinsTiara Hobbs Robinson
Greenbrier, AR Thursday, May 19, 2022Matthew, to and your precious family, and Aunt Marsha, I am so very sorry for your loss. I have so many memories of Mr. Gene. Good ones. Aunt Marsha, coming to visit you all those years ago was one of the highlights of my life. Many memories of Mr. Gene during that trip. And Matthew, Stephanie and boys, how blessed he was to have y’all. As y’all were blessed with him. My prayers will be with you all. He will be so missed.
James Gathings
Monticello, AR Thursday, May 19, 2022 Linda I am so thankful for the lunch and to see how excited Mr Gene was about he and Mr Joes fishing trip on Tuesday! Anyone that had the opportunity to meet and get to know him , admired and respected his love for and approach to life , his Lord and his family! I consider my self blessed to be one of those people. I will always cherish my limited times and unforgettable visits with him being a sound friend and great example.I know that you will rely on the sound faith that the two of you shared for strength and that your Lords arms with his will carry you forward.
You have my deepest condolences and assurance as from all who knew Mt Gene of our never ending support!