Kemp David
Kemp is a native of New Iberia, Louisiana and a third-generation funeral director and embalmer. Following in the footsteps of his father, Royal David, he attended The Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service in Houston, Texas where he earned his Associative Degree in Mortuary Science with honors. Through his attendance, Kemp, along with his classmates and instructors, touched the hearts of Houstonians by caring for those families whom had not the resources to provide decent and respectable burials for their lost loved ones. By reaching out to those who had little, Kemp’s volunteer work with the Harris County Bereavement Services burned a caring desire into his heart to provide the softest touch to all those he meets.
While attending school in Houston, Kemp was afforded the honor of working for Geo. H. Lewis and Sons Funeral Directors where he was given the opportunity to assist on such funerals as the famous Paul “Red” Adair, the oil-well firefighter, as well as many other dignitaries and community members. Working in Houston, Kemp gained much experience in various cultures and religious rites such as Reform Jewish, Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, which also happens to be his choice of faith, and many others. Also, while working for Geo. H., Kemp gained much insight into offering unique options for various Funeral Services and Memorial Services for cremations making them more meaningful to those families he served. His tenure allowed him to learn and appreciate just what it takes to offer dignified service beyond expectations.
Following graduation, Kemp returned to Lafayette, Louisiana to work for Martin & Castille Funeral Home, a longtime family owned funeral home which was a staple to the City of Lafayette. While working for Martin & Castille, he made it a point to care for every family with the respect and dignity each deserved, carefully preparing the final farewell of each family’s most cherished loved one. While residing in Lafayette, he had the privilege of helping with a variety of community organizations such as the Healing House for abused Children, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Death and Dying Class as well as being a past member of the Optimist Club of Lafayette. This community outreach further inspired Kemp, in that his service to his fellow community members was not just a calling, but was a way of life through giving.
In addition to his commitment to providing respectful and dignified funerals and memorials, Kemp also is a veteran of the United States Army. He has served with 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Louisiana Army National Guard, enlisting before even graduating from high school in July 1995. He graduated basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and attended school at the Home of the U.S. Cyber Center of Excellence in Fort Gordon, Georgia specializing in communications. He attended Officer Candidate School and received his commission as a Signal Officer, 2nd Lieutenant, in 2010. Kemp continues his military service to this day as he is a staff officer assigned to the 2nd Squadron 183rd Cavalry Regiment, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Virginia Army National Guard.
Kemp is married to Trisha Marie David, formally of Lafayette, Louisiana, and has three wonderful children, Hannah Elizabeth, Ethan Jude and Kayden James and three beautiful grandchildren, Harper, Leon and Jet. Family and God is his inspiration and is what gives him strength to help others in their moments of need and bidding that final farewell in the most dignified way possible making Kemp truly a valued asset to the Funeral Profession and to Rocky Mount.
From the moment we contacted Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Services, we were met with compassion, professionalism, and a level of care that brought us tremendous peace during a difficult time. Every detail was handled with grace and dignity, and their team ensured our loved one was honored in the most respectful way possible. Our pastor, who has officiated many services over the years, shared that this was the most kind, professional, and organized service he had ever been a part of—and we couldn't agree more. From the quiet support behind the scenes to the seamless coordination of every aspect of the ceremony, their attention to detail was unmatched. We are deeply grateful to the entire staff at Wheeler and Woodlief. They made a painful experience easier with their warmth, guidance, and dedication. Thank you for helping us celebrate a life well-lived with such honor and love.