David Eugene Kemper, 87, of Burleson, Texas, a former Scioto County area resident, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, at Texas Health Huguley Hospital. He was born February 17, 1939, in Scioto County, Ohio, to the late Forest “Bud” and Ethel “Peg” (Coriell) Kemper, David lived a life marked by dedication to his family, service to his country, and integrity in his work and relationships.
David was a proud 1957 graduate of South Webster High School, where he formed the foundation for a lifetime of faithful commitment to learning and to his community. Shortly after his graduation, David answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Marine Corps. David retired from USEC and attended Union Free Will Baptist Church. He was a local, state, and national officer of Shawnee Kookin Kampers of NCT, and a member of Western Sun Masonic Lodge #91, Wheelersburg.
David is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Joyce (Keaton) Kemper; two children, Kathryn Renee Kemper Link (Jonathan), Matthew David Kemper (Kimberly); five grandchildren, Cole (Rachel) Kemper, Hunter Kemper, Megan Hines, Jeff Hines, Kira Link; two great-grandchildren, Madelyn Hines, Harper Kemper; his sister, Helen Ruth Foster, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his brothers, Raymond Kemper, John Kemper, and sisters Charlene Wagner Cooley and Wanda Jean Kemper Wright Kallas.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 8, 2026 at Union Free Will Baptist Church with Pastor Zack Conkel officiating. Burial will be at Vernon Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday at Erwin-Dodson-Allen Funeral Home in Minford from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church. Masonic rites will be conducted by Western Sun Lodge #91 at 7:00 p.m. Friday. Military graveside rites will be conducted by James Irwin Post No. 622 American Legion and William A. Baker Post No. 363. Online condolences may be sent to www.edafh.com.
