Thomas Watson Kemper Jr.

October 25, 1946 ~ February 14, 2024 (age 77)

Thomas “Tuck” Watson Kemper Jr, (77) was called home to our Lord on February 14, 2024. Born October 25, 1946, in Marshall, Texas to Thomas W. and Huberta J. Kemper. He graduated from Marshall High School in 1964 and went on to attain his degree from Stephen F Austin State University in 1969.  Tuck met the love of his life, Sally Irene Kemper in 1962.  They were married in 1968 at which time they began their life of adventure spanning multiple states and countries while serving as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Air Force during wartime and as a Southern Baptist Missionary. 

Since 1988, he has been a member of First Baptist Church, Longview, and for the last 14 years,  Arp Emmanuel Baptist Church, where he taught Sunday school and/or served as a Deacon continuously.  Right up through his weeks in the hospital near the end of his journey, he was still bringing nurses to know Christ. He knew his mission wasn’t over until he was called home. 

He bravely fought cancer while walking Sally through the stages of ALS for 2 years and has continued to fight for the last 2 years to be strong for his sons. 

Tuck is preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Sally of 53 years. He is survived by his children,  Chris Kemper; Ben Kemper, his wife Kristi; grandchildren Mason, Riley, and Reid; sisters Sue, Kathy, and his brother Jerry; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

The family will receive visitors on Monday, February 19, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Arp Emmanuel Baptist Church, with a funeral immediately following at 11:30 a.m.  Graveside services will be held at Grover 2 Cemetery located at 2283 FM 968 W, Marshall, Texas at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center at Longviewpaws.org