Earl Kempton

Earl Kempton, age 96, entered into the open arms of Jesus on November 20, 2020. Earl grew up in the great outdoors: hunting white tail deer, elk and fishing. He loved cats, dogs and even a squirrel that ate from his pocket. A perfectionist, he could do anything teaching his children the value of hard work. Earl fought for our freedom. Just out of high school he was drafted serving 1942-1948 as an Aviation Machinist in the Navy during WW II where he earned the nick name “Soda Pop”. Recalled by the Navy during the Korean War he elected to join the Air Force and served from 1948-1953. Earl fought to see the flag wave – not burned and to stand for our National Anthem – not kneel. He earned several Navy medals: American Area Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal, American Defense Service Medal, Victory Medal World War II, and Good Conduct Medal. Air Force medals: Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal. After completing over 20 years civil service he continued to work at Ingalls Shipyard to the age of 84. Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Angie and Alma (WW I veteran); and wife, Betty. He is survived by his two sons, David (Darlene), Danny (Danielle) and two daughters Colleen and Kathy; and stepchildren Pam, Eddie and Donna. He was blessed with many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was far from perfect but knew the perfect one, accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9-13). He was a strong Christian to the end and loved the Lord with his whole heart. Life is but a whisper, where will you spend eternity - heaven or hell? It’s not goodbye, but until we see you again. Psalms 23 1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday December 8, 2020 at 10:30 at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, FL with military honors. Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview. Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

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