Hersel T. Kemp, 88, of Brookdale of Marietta, OH formerly of New Martinsville and Paden City, WV passed away Thursday, March 24, 2016.

Hersel was born February 13, 1928 in Bens Run, WV, son of Dory and Anna (Beagle) Kemp.

He was a graduate of Sistersville High School and was a 48-year member of the Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 565 of Parkersburg. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

In addition to his parents, Hersel was preceded in death by daughter Debbie Lynne Kemp, his wife of 65 years, Neva Tice Kemp; brothers Chuck, Alphy and Glennen and sister, Bethel Turner.

Surviving are his son, Tom (Marsha) Kemp of Pittsburgh, PA; two grandchildren, Katie Kemp of Columbus, OH and Jonathan Kemp of Atlanta, GA; sisters Voleen Baker of Martinsburg, WV, Betty Kneier of Cleveland, OH, Gladys Frohling of Parkersburg, WV; brothers Con (Betty) of Mantua, OH, and Gary (Sharon) of St. Marys, WV – nieces and several great-nieces and nephews– extended family and a host of longtime friends, his beloved Brookdale of Marietta family and his loving nurses Tana and Katrina (and staff) of Medi-Hospice.

Hersel will be remembered most for his quick humor, jokes and stories, and always lending a helping hand to those in need. He loved traveling the tri-state area to watch his grandchildren play sports, attending fairs and festivals, camping, golfing and tinkering.

Friends received 11 a.m. until time of the service 2 p.m., Wednesday, March 30, 2016, at the Paden City Christian Church in Paden City, WV with Jeff White officiating.

Interment to follow in Paden Memorial Gardens in Paden City, WV.

The family asks, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the charity of your choice.