Beverly Newton Kemp

In the early morning hours of August 16, 2023 Beverly Derie Newton Kemp, 79, passed away at NMMC-Gilmore in Amory.  Beverly was born September 23, 1943 in the Peaceful Valley Community in Itawamba County to the late William "Bill" Newton and Una Sloan Newton.  Moving to Monroe County at an early age, Beverly graduated from Hatley High School Class of 1961.  She enjoyed a long time career of 42 years in the banking industry.  Beverly never met a stranger and was the friendly voice that always had a smile on her face that her customers recognized and loved.  She worked at First Citizens Bank, Deposit Guaranty, Eastover and Magnolia Financial all in Columbus.  Her kind nature and good humor will be fondly remembered.  A devoted Christian, Beverly was a member of Meadowood Baptist Church and lived each day with her favorite scripture as her guide for life: The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation, Psalm 118:14.  She enjoyed watching worship programs on TV, socializing with family and friends, traveling to the Smoky Mountains, attending Bluegrass Festivals.  Born into a musical family, she enjoyed singing in a trio as a teenager with her sisters, Gail and Linda.  Losing her father many years ago, she would often recount the fond memories she had of helping him outdoors as a child and the nickname "Scout" that he had given her.  

Beverly is survived by her beloved husband of 37 years, Melvin Kemp; sister, Gail Carter (Bobby), Amory; brother, Perry Newton, Amory; sister in law, Ginger Bussey; brother in law, Carl Kemp; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Beverly is preceded in death by her 2 sons, Barry and Kevin Sims; sister, Linda Iris Little; mother in law, Bessie Kemp; sister in law Linda Kay Newton.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at Meadowood Baptist Church with Dr. Lloyd Sweat officiating.  Burial will follow in Memorial Gardens of Columbus.  Pallbearers will be Carl Kemp, Jason Bussey, Rush Holcomb, Tim Little, Mike Huffman and Tex Falvey.

Visitation will be at the church prior to the service on Saturday from 10:15 AM until the service hour at 11 AM.

Condolences may be shared at clevelandmoffettfuneralhome.com.