Rachel Irene Kemp

Rachel Irene Kemp, 94, of Fairfield, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Jefferson County Health Center.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at First United Methodist Church in Fairfield. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Fairfield Community Center or Hospice of Washington County. Behner Funeral Home in Fairfield is assisting the family.

Rachel was born on August 22, 1931, in Douds, the daughter of Clarence and Ruth (Humphrey) Wiley. On August 23, 1953, she married Eugene Kemp in Leando. They shared nearly 60 years together before his passing in 2012.

A devoted wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend, Rachel spent her life caring for others and pouring herself into her community. She worked in advertising sales at the Town Crier in Fairfield and was a loyal partner to Eugene in his carpentry and handyman business. She was also a steady presence on the family’s Christmas tree farm, where her warm smile and friendly nature made everyone feel welcome.

Rachel had a gift for making friends wherever she went. She loved the simple joys of life—bowling, bingo, and sharing laughter with her many dear friends. She was a proud member of First United Methodist Church, the Heritage Club at First National Bank, and served faithfully on the Fairfield Community Center board.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Alan (Missy) Kemp of Urbandale and June Kemp of Fairfield; daughter-in-law, Sue Kemp; grandchildren, Stephen (Jennifer) Kemp, Jennifer (Anthony) Signore, Nikolas (Dana) Kemp, and Samuel Kemp; three great-grandchildren; nephew Linn (Mary) Vehslage; and niece, Kim Meeker.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene; her parents; her son, Neal Kemp; and sisters, JoAnn Wiley and Catherine Kann.

Rachel will be remembered for her kindness, her sense of fun, and her unwavering love for her family and friends.