Friends and supporters from across the state will be hosting a benefit called “Kemper’s Time,” which will consist of a BBQ lunch followed by a dance on Saturday, January 28th for longtime Brownwood resident William Kemper “Kemp” Croft who was recently diagnosed with stage II lung cancer.
Award winning BBQ cookers have organized the lunch benefit, which will be held from 10:00am- 2:00pm at Carroll Fire and Safety’s parking lot, at the corner of Main (Hwy 377 S) and West Baker. The public is invited to make a donation, eat on sight or carryout. The BBQ lunch will include brisket, beans, pit potatoes, and “fixin’s”.
The Dance, featuring the Buck Nelson Band, will begin at 8:00 pm and last until midnight at the Grand Starz Bingo Hall on Belle Plain in Brownwood. Admission to the dance is only $10 per person or $15 per couple.
All donations go directly to the “Kemper’s Time” bank account. More information is available by calling Dennis Carroll 325-642-1176 or Jason Persons 325-647-7722.
Kemper has a long history of personal contributions to fundraising for others in need and often “rallied the troops” whenever someone was in need, according to event organizers. He has cooked BBQ for people all over the state during fundraising events, some of which include:
Cross Plains Fire Relief
FROG – Greenleaf Cemetery
Mark Garvin
Larry Jessup
21st Calvary Battalion
BJ Karnes
Shannon Stone
Many more families after several individuals’ deaths or funerals
Kemper is a lifelong resident of Brownwood and recently retired from the State School.
“Whenever/wherever need – known or unknown persons – for years Kemper has risen to help and has given the shirt off his back to help a friend,” stated organizers. “The tables have turned now, and Kemper needs help.”
Kemper’s sister, Vonne Cornett explained Kemper’s situation.
“In November of 2011, Kemper was diagnosed with Stage II Lung Cancer. He has never used tobacco of any kind, and like many of us, was shocked to find this hateful disease can strike anybody at any time. He’s a fighter, though, and in less than a week after his surgery, he was back at work. He is currently doing chemo therapy in Dallas at UT Southwestern Hospital. The chemo therapy, however, can cause even the strongest “Oak” to bend. We all know someone who has suffered through Chemo therapy and the effects it has on one’s daily life. Even Kemper, who ordinarily does the work of ten men, has been slowed down. Cancer doesn’t care if the bills are paid, if there’s enough gasoline in the truck to go to Dallas, or the right kind of cancer fighting food in the fridge. His friends DO CARE.”
Donations are also being accepted at Western Bank across from Home Depot. Anyone who wishes to help Kemper may contribute money to the account that has been set up at Western Bank.
Many supporters have begun rallying to help Kemper by organizing these events and making donations or contributions, which include:
Pee Wee Croft (Kemper’s brother)
Dennis Carroll
Jason Person
Michael Reed of Austin
Keith Hetzel – donated a hog to the benefit
Hibler & Son Processing of San Saba – donated complete processing of meat.
Harlen Scott of Odessa – donated all the brisket for the BBQ
Louis Zapata, President of the Iron Horse Riding Club has organized benefit rides for Kemper
“Several local businesses have also contributed paper goods, tables, chairs, money and time to make this event a success,” said Cornett. “I have personally been notified by phone and email, that friends and supporters will be attending the BBQ benefit and dance from Odessa, Austin, Abilene and the metroplex area.
Cornett stated that this outpouring of support has meant a lot to her family and Kemper.
“Even folk who have never even met Kemp, but know of his tremendous contributions to the cause of others have expressed a willingness to help,” said Cornett. “Bill (Kemp) is a very humble and compassionate person and this outpouring of friendship and support is almost overwhelming.”
