T.J. was born on October 18, 1929 to Fred and Idell Kemp and went to be with his heavenly father on Friday, July 9, 2021 after several years of declining health.
T. J. retired from The Atlanta Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Gainesville, GA as a manager in 1984 after 39 years of service and was an avid Coca-Cola memorabilia collector. Following retirement he owned and operated T. J.'s Snacks until 1997.
He was an active member of Chicopee Baptist Church and enjoyed being involved in church activities. He was a member of the Bereavement Ministry. T.J. also enjoyed singing in the choir and in the congregation and with his wife, Grace. Together they also used their vocal talents on many occasions singing gospel and country songs. T.J. also enjoyed singing karaoke. T.J. was an active member of the community. He was a member of the Rotary Club, Community Clean Council, and Special Olympics Committee. He was also proud to be a Master Mason of Masonic Lodge #219 for almost 60 years.
He and his wife loved to travel. Together they went on several cruises and were able to explore many states and countries. T.J. also had a passion for automobiles. He enjoyed riding around in his convertible. He also enjoyed playing competitive games such as horseshoes, dominoes, cards, and Monopoly.
T.J. was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Patricia Kemp and his son-in-law Phillip Escover.
T.J. is survived by his beautiful wife Grace of whom he adored, of 36 years; two daughters, Jeanene Escover of Gainesville, and Lisa (Douglas) Collins of Gainesville; four grandchildren, Courtney (Jeremy) Baldwin, Jordan, Copelan, and Cameron Collins all of Gainesville GA. Additional survivors include Tony Kemp and Steve Kemp along with several other relatives. He is also survived by a special friend, John Schoolcraft.
Visitation will be Saturday, July 10th from 5:00-7:00 and services will be held Sunday, July 11th at 2:00 in the chapel of Little Davenport Funeral Home with burial at Alta Vista Cemetery.