Richard J. Kemp, 87, of Belmont, died on Monday, August 18, 2025, in his home surrounded by his family. He was born June 18, 1938, in Belmont, the son of the late Jay B. and Ruby L. (Vancuren) Kemp. On November 21, 1970, in Scio, he married Mary Lou Brown, who survives.
Dick graduated from Belmont Central School in 1957. He entered the workforce, initially working several years as an auto-body repairman in Belmont. He found his second career with Friendship Dairies, retiring in 1996. Outside of his employment he was an avid hunter, collector and antique-er. He was a great resource to as a handyman, both in the home and for automobiles but most of all he will be remembered as a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary Lou Kemp; three children, Corinna Pinney of Farmersville, NY, Aaron Kemp of Danville, VA, and Mark Kemp of Belmont; a granddaughter that they’ve raised, Brooke (Jessie) McAvaney of Rochester; nine additional grandchildren, Lee Bailey III, Dylan Baker, Shanae Baker, Tyler Kemp, Jonathan Kemp, Benson Uplinger, Alexis Kemp, Lelia Kemp, and Raider Kemp; six siblings, Beverly (Curtis) Burnell, Lois Eck, Wayne (Sandra) Kemp, Rosalie Taylor, Dale Kemp, and Reverend Carl (Linda) Kemp; as well as several nieces and nephews, and the family dog Oliver. In addition to his parents, Jay and Ruby, he was predeceased by: a sister, Barbara Jane Kemp; a brother, Dale Kemp; a brother-in-law, Ray Taylor; and the family dog, Bruce.
Friends are invited to call on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Onley-Foust & Embser Funeral Home of Belmont, 17 Schuyler Street. A graveside service will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 11 am in Forest Hills Cemetery with Deacon Frank Pasquale presiding. Please consider memorial donation to the SPCA Serving Allegany County, 5440 NY-19, Belmont, NY 14813.
To leave online condolences please visit www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com .
