BOBBY KEMP SR. HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Bobby Kemp Sr. known to many as "Papa Kemp" was born and raised in Walton County, Florida.  Papa Kemp was a dedicated community leader and set an example for so many.  He spent countless hours volunteering his time to his community, he served the City of Paxton  as a City Council member for 45 years.

In 1977 Papa started as a volunteer firefighter with the City of Paxton.  In February 1987, Papa Kemp was hired on with the Walton County Fire and Rescue where he became an EMT and served in that capacity until December 2012 when he retired after 25 years.  During his tenure, he saw a lot of changes and provided thousands of Walton County residents with life-support services and other medical needs.  A news article published from Frontline EMS World in 2008 stated that Papa was the State of Florida's oldest EMT .  Papa loved his family and his community with all he had, his greatest passion was helping others. 

After Papa Kemp's passing in March 2021, the City of Paxton adopted Bobby Kemp Sr. day to honor him and his family for all they gave, not only for our town of Paxton but the surrounding communities and County.  This event will be held every year on the second Saturday in September.  A scholarship will be presented to two seniors selected by the Kemp Family from the proceeds raised at this event.

We hope you will make plans to attend Bobby Kemp Sr. Heritage Day, September 9, 2023 at the Paxton Agriculture Center.