In an industry notorious for controversy and mistrust, Claudette Kemp was considered the exception.

The former insurance executive-turned-artiste manager was remembered for her uncompromised professionalism during her thanksgiving service on July 19 at Boulevard Baptist Church.

Kemp, who died June 9 at age 75, was known to many music business players as the long-time manager of Capleton. But her commitment to humanitarian causes was also highlighted throughout the service.

Speakers, from Capleton to Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Steve McGregor, recalled her dedication to improving the welfare of people and their communities.

Capleton described Kemp as, “One of the best human beings I met in my life.” He added that, “She was always on di battlefield; she was a real fighter. An’ she do it without fear; she do it with love, honesty, discipline, diligence, and humility.”

McGregor told the packed church that he met Kemp in 1998 when he was the inspector in charge of Rockfort Police Station.

At the time, the area was affected by sustained violence which resulted in as many as three murders a week. He said she got involved with his precinct, reopening a canteen there which helped to lift staff morale. Kemp also went into the Rockfort community and encouraged especially women to be empowered.

“We brought down the crime rate to nil and we could not have done it without Claudette Kemp,” said McGregor.

Entertainment Minister Olivia Grange, represented by Howard McIntosh, recalled Kemp’s concern for artiste welfare. She said she fully supported the establishment of a comprehensive insurance scheme for entertainment industry players, many of whom have fallen on hard times.

The service was also attended by Kemp’s 94 year-old mother, who lives in Canada, her four children and two grandchildren.

The industry she served for over 40 years was strongly represented. Those in attendance included musicians Frankie Campbell, Dean Fraser, and Earl “Chinna” Smith; music producers Mikey Bennett, Gussie Clarke, and Clive Hunt; artistes Mr G, DiMario McDowell, Pam Hall, Nadine Sutherland, and Romain Virgo.