OBITUARY: Betty Kemp

Betty Ruth Kemp, born on December 10, 1934, in Campaign, Tennessee, has departed from this life. Known for her kindness, dedication to her work, and the love she held for her family, Betty’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was an esteemed member of the Southern Baptist Executive Committee, where she devoted nine years of her life as an Editorial Assistant. Her diligent work ethic and commitment to her faith were an inspiration to her colleagues and loved ones. Betty’s immense joy in life was found in her favorite pastimes, which included traveling, tending to her beautiful flowers, sewing, and needle stitching.

Betty was a proud and active member of the PWM John B. Garrett O.E.S. 271. Her service on the Board of Directors of Castle Heights Military Academy as the Dean of Girls was another testament to her dedication to community engagement and her passion for guiding young lives. She was a woman of faith, guided by the verses of the Southern Baptist tradition, particularly the verse in Proverbs 31:25, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” Betty’s life epitomized this verse, as she was indeed a woman of strength, dignity, and grace.

Betty is survived by her beloved family members, including her daughter Karen Moore and son-in-law Gary, her son Billy Jr, her granddaughter Mandy Rankin and grandson-in-law Daniel Rankin, grandson Quinten Moore, and her great-granddaughter Kaylee Rankin. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, George and Vida Wigington. What mattered most to Betty was watching her family grow through the years, from the annual family gatherings of nieces and nephews and their families. She enjoyed hosting at her home in Nashville and eventually in Lebanon. She was very active in her grandchildren’s lives and enjoyed watching her grandchildren and great-granddaughter accomplish significant milestones in their lives. Betty’s love for her family was unwavering, and her presence will be deeply missed.

We invite you to leave your memories and share photos of Betty on the memorial page. Your shared memories and photos will serve as a testament to the incredible life that Betty led and the impact she had on all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A private family graveside service will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family request donation be made in her honor to the Tennessee Baptist Children’s home in Franklin.