Edith McCray Kemp Bass

Edith McCray Kemp Bass, 88, of Lumberton, passed away on July 12, 2025, at the Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville. Born on May 5, 1937, in Bladen County, she was the daughter of the late Gaston Clyde Kemp, Sr. and Naomi Meares Kemp. 

Preceding her in death were her parents, children: Margaret Ann Bean, George Bean, Mary Ann Moore, and her siblings: Doris Jones (Gerald Richard "GR"), Nellie Kemp, Gaston Clyde Kemp, Jr. (Bobbie), Betty Rice (Charles), Jessie Welch (Michael), Robert Kemp, Charles "Chuck" Kemp (Hattie) and Horace Kemp.

A devoted homemaker, Edith dedicated her life to her family and ensured that her home was a place filled with love and warmth. She created countless cherished memories for her children and grandchildren, nurturing their growth and happiness with her unparalleled care and affection.

Edith is survived by her beloved children: Jim Bean, Carol Bean, John Bean (Sherry), and Robert Bean (Rebecca). She took immense pride in her role as a grandmother and is also mourned by her grandchildren: Ashley Brissel, Ashley Carter, Michael Smith, Roger Scott, Jr., Ian Bass, and sister-in-law, Cathie Kemp Hoover. Her legacy of love extends to her great-grandchildren: Morgan Bale, Kai Booker, Dameien Holmes, Ashton Carter, Breyton Carter, Kiri Orent, Cayson Deal and Archer Wade.

We honor the life of a godly, devoted mother whose love was both a quiet source of strength and a steadfast anchor. With an unwavering faith in God, she instilled in her children the sacred values of integrity, courage, and compassion. By example, she taught the virtues of humility, honor, and devotion. Her kindness flowed freely, touching not only her family but everyone she knew.

She was generous, sacrificing her own comfort to bring comfort to others. Her compassion was not just felt--it was lived, in every gesture, in every word, and in every action.

The family will receive friends from 1-1:45pm on Wednesday, July 16th at Bladen-Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown with a funeral service at 2pm. Reverend Lacy Norris will officiate the service. 

Her legacy isn't just remembered, it's alive - in the spirits she lifted, the hearts she embraced, and the souls she nurtured. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Funeral Fund of Edith Bass c/o Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home, PO Box 3150, Elizabethtown, NC 28337.