Gary Lee Kemp

Lexington– Gary Lee Kemp, 73, peacefully passed away on October 24, 2024, at Trios Hospital after a long battle with health challenges. Born on June 30, 1951, in Heppner, Oregon, he was the son of Stanley M. Kemp and Wilma (Billie) Harshman.

Gary graduated from Lexington and Heppner schools in 1969, then went on to Blue Mountain Community College. In 1970, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany, later serving in the Oregon National Guard upon his return to the states.

Back in Heppner, Gary met the love of his life, Marcia (Bedortha) Kemp. Together, they built a beautiful life, celebrating 50 years of marriage and raising two amazing daughters.  Gary retired in June, 2007 from the Morrow County Road Department.

A lifelong member of the Heppner Elks Lodge and American Legion Post-Ione, Gary also served as a city councilor and enjoyed his time at the Willow Creek Country Club. His commitment to community and service was evident in everything he did.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his wife, Marcia Kemp of Lexington, and their daughters, Tina (Philip) Joyce of Hermiston and Toni Parish of West Pasco, WA. Gary's legacy also lives on through his grandchildren: Julianna Joyce (WSU-Pullman), Kellen Joyce (MSU-Bozeman), Megan Joyce (OSU-Corvallis), Madison Parish (Woodbury-Burbank), and Natalie Parish (Tri Cities Prep-West Pasco). He is further survived by his brother, Steve Kemp of Patterson, WA, his sister, Sherry Kemp of Pendleton, OR, and his brother-in-law, Tom (Carrie) Bedortha of Pendleton, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the Morrow County Health District, Home Health, Lexington and Heppner Fire Departments, Pioneer Memorial Hospital, Pioneer Memorial Therapy Services, and Trios Hospital for the exceptional care and support they provided during Gary's final months.

A celebration of Gary's life will take place on Saturday, November 30th, at 4:00 PM at the Heppner Elks Club. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to BPOE Lodge 358, Heppner, Oregon. Join us in honoring a remarkable man whose spirit touched so many lives.

Private burial Lexington Cemetery with military honors officiated by Stuart Dick.

Sweeney Payton Mortuary is handling the arrangements.  Please leave your condolence messages for the family below.