Charles Kemp

Charles Leon Kemp, Jr. aka known as (Bird) was born July 31, 1932 in Chicago, IL to Charles Leon Kemp, Sr. & Ora Kemp, who both preceded him in death. Charles graduated from McKinley High School in 1952 & shortly after graduation, he entered the United States Air Force and proudly served for four years of service. He received an honorable discharge in 1956.  He then enrolled and attended Herzl College on Chicago’s Westside and later attended Triton College in River Grove IL.

At the tender age of 12, he started listening to Jazz music and enjoyed it. His favorite musician was Charlie Parker aka (Bird), that’s when his friends started calling him Bird.  Until this day, his family and friends still affectionately call him Bird.

Charles had accepted Christ as his savior and attended Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Woodrow Wilson Taylor with the rest of his family. Charles became a devout member of Living Word Christian Center in Forest Park, Illinois under the leadership of Dr. Bill Winston where he attended services with his youngest Brother, Curtis.  Charles also became a devout member of the Church of God in Chicago under the leadership of Minister Ricky Dukes

Charles initially worked for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and later for the Social Security Administration where he helped many people.  He finally retired briefly from the Social Security Administration. He then returned to work as a school bus driver.

Charles spent 89 years of life – seeing the world, working in different professions and deeply loving his family.  Charles was born into Eternity October 6, 2021.

Charles was preceded in death by his Father Charles Kemp Sr., Mother Ora Kemp, Brothers, Julius Cesar Kemp, aka Tony (Annette), Curtis Kemp & Sister, Doris Kemp-Schweikle (John). He leaves to cherish his loving Brother, Jesse Kimp (Earlene) & sister Jean Kemp-Wright. A host of nieces, nephews & friends.

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