Kemp Funeral Home will host its 4th Annual Art & Jazz Gala on Nov. 9, celebrating art, live music and organ donation awareness while marking 25 years since CFO Jacquie Lewis-Kemp received a lifesaving kidney from her brother.
The event runs 3-6 p.m. at 24575 Evergreen Road in Southfield. Admission is $20. Proceeds support MOTTEP, the Minority Organ Transplant Education Program.
“We think we can thank the community for supporting us and coming to the funeral home - not on a sad occasion,” said Lewis-Kemp during an appearance on “Live in the D.” She’s a transplant recipient who, along with her husband, has helped turn the funeral home into a gathering place for art and culture.
Jeff Lewis, who donated his kidney to his sister 25-years ago, said the experience reshaped their bond and their mission. “It’s given us a similar cause to fight for - we obviously both believe heavily in transplant,” he said.
Stephen R. Kemp, Jr., president of the funeral home, said the gala underscores the power of donation and the home’s community focus. “I figure people are sad enough - I don’t need to make them sadder,” he said, noting the space is designed to be bright and welcoming and to “celebrate the life rather than mourn it.”
The gala will feature live jazz and local artists, with all proceeds benefiting MOTTEP’s outreach on organ and tissue donation.
To watch the segment, click on the video above.