It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Murray James Kemp on July 3rd 2025 at home surrounded by his family.
Born on November 11, 1952 to July 3, 2025, Murray was born and raised in Blackburn Hamlet on the family homestead, then slowly migrated west to the Richmond area, where he and Judy built their home on a 50 acre plot of land. There they would raise their family on a small farm with a variety of animals and birds as well as a large garden. They were proudly married for over 50 years.
Murray is survived by his wife Judy (Brewer), his children Shannon (James) Bailey, Adam, Chris, his grandchildren Natasha, Brooklyn, Belle, Ben, Duncan, Mason, Matae, Piper, Jack, and Fletcher, as well as his great grandson Antonio.
He was predeceased by Parents Eldon and Lois Kemp, his brother Gord, and his Granddaughter Gwen.
Murray was passionate about all aspects of his life. He was an amazing natural athlete throughout his lifetime. His love for sports started at Gloucester high school, where he was awarded Best Boy Athlete Award in his senior year. This led a lifetime of playing and coaching hockey and baseball. His true passion though was hunting, spending as much time as he could in the bush and fields, always accompanied by a dog.
Murray was a dedicated member of Local 96 IUEC for his entire career as an accomplished elevator mechanic, a trade that suited his skills perfectly. Through the union he started and managed his world champion bed racing team raising thousands every year for local hospitals. He was always proud of being able to represent the union in a positive light.
A celebration of Murray’s life will be held at the Richmond Legion Sunday July 13, 2025 from 1-4 pm.
In lieu of flowers donations to Diabetes Canada or to the SIDS foundation would be appreciated.
Digital Guestbook
Dan Hunton
Steve Harding
I worked with Murray at Valley Elevator and again at Kone. I also had the pleasure of working with his son Chris for 5 years at Caital Elevator. I hope I was able to teach Chris some of the knowledge Murray taught me. RIP Murray.
Deborah Cook
I first met Murray when an interest in training my English Setter to hunt birds in the field for CKC Tests or NAVDHA Ottawa Tests. He was a very kind & knowledgeable man. So sorry to hear of your passing. Condolences to Judy & your family. You will be truly missed.
June Whyte and family
Such fond memories of Murray! Truly a chip off the old block! Murray like Uncle Eldon was a strong father and a strong community man. My sincere thoughts are with his whole family!!!
James Hector
My first real introduction to Murray was at a Union meeting where I answered his call for runners for the bed races. That was the start of a great friendship. Murray touched the heart of every one of us. He was an amazing soul. Heart felt condolences to the family. RIP Murray ~
Dianne Rossy
My sincere condolences to you Judy and your family on the death of Murray- a wonderful husband, father and friend. May his memories be a blessing.
Claude Asselin
sympathies to all the family for your big loss. I have good souvenirs of training my dogs at its place, he was very generous.
Danny W Kemp
I was working at a Butcher Shop in Brockville, and we had lunch together, and Murray had me laughing! So sorry to Judy, and Family for the loss!
Bernie, Tess, and Troy Martin
Murray was a wonderful person, he will be missed. Sending our love to Judy and to the family.
Frank & Andree McNeely
Deepest sympathies to the Kemp families.
RIP Murray 🙏
Murray took me under his wing as a young apprentice many years ago and I was lucky for it to continue as a young mechanic. He was a great teacher with lots of patience and never shied away from taking time to help whether it was 1 pm or 1 am on a trouble call. He was also just a fun person to be around at work or at play. Rest in peace Brother.