Known for her gracious spirit, competitive drive on the golf course, and deep devotion to family and friends, Betty Sue Hollingsworth Kemp lived a life filled with warmth, friendship, and lasting relationships.
Betty Sue Hollingsworth Kemp, 90, passed away peacefully at her home on April 24, 2026, in Russellville. Born Oct. 17, 1935, in Logan County, she was the daughter of the late Walter L. Hollingsworth and Virginia Bell Nealy Hollingsworth.
A graduate of Russellville High School, Betty Sue remained closely connected to her hometown throughout her life. She was also a member of First Baptist Church in Russellville,
Betty Sue was an avid and accomplished golfer who enjoyed many years on the course and won numerous championships throughout her life. She was a member of several golf clubs in Florida and spent many winters in West Palm Beach and Jupiter, Florida. She was also a longtime member of the Russellville Country Club, where she played an important role in organizing and leading the Ladies Golf Association. Over the years she captured multiple club championships and was part of several four-person teams that won state titles. A particularly proud achievement was recording three holes-in-one during her golfing career.
In addition to golf, Betty Sue greatly enjoyed playing bridge and treasured the companionship of her beloved bridge club, whose members were among her closest and dearest friends.
Betty Sue lived a full and active life until a serious fall in 2012, from which she never fully recovered. After another serious fall in 2018, her health continued to decline.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Joane Hollingsworth Russell, and two brothers, Hugh L. Hollingsworth and Raymond Hollingsworth, all of whom resided in Logan County.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert “Bob” Kemp of Russellville; her children, Suzanne (Bobby) Marshall of Russellville, Robert Kemp Jr. of West Palm Beach, Fla, and Dr. John David Kemp of Columbia, S.C.; and her grandchildren, Shelly Leigh Drake of Russellville and Jackson Kemp of Paducah. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Eddy Russell of Russellville, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to Tammy Bradley-Ford, who lovingly assisted Betty Sue’s care for the past 15 years.
Celebration of her life will be held on Wednesday, April 29, at First Presbyterian Church, 159 West Sixth Street, Russellville. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. and continue until 1 p.m., when the family will hold a brief Celebration of Life service in Betty Sue’s honor. Burial will immediately follow the service at Maple Grove Cemetery in Russellville, Pastor Josh Hill of First Presbyterian Church officiating.
Pallbearers: Lynn Kemp, Robin Russell, Jay D. Joines, Austin Ford, Tony Gerbo, Fount Shifflett, Mike Riley.
Honorary pallbearers: Bob Ballance, Jerry Humble, Ike Duncan and Lee Robey.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to First Presbyterian Church, 159 West Sixth Street, Russellville, KY 42276, or to Hosparace Health of Barren River.