05/27/2026
It was our honor and privilege to serve Mr. Michael; he will be greatly missed by the Visiting Angels family!
On behalf of the City of Mount Holly, Mayor David Moore and the Mount Holly City Council announce with profound sadness the passing of long time City Attorney Kemp A. Michael, whose remarkable legacy of public service, leadership, and devotion helped shape the City of Mount Holly for more than fifty years.
A native son of Mount Holly, Kemp A. Michael dedicated his professional life to the community he loved. Appointed City Attorney in the early 1970s, he faithfully served the City until his retirement in 2022. During his decades of service, Kemp became far more than the City’s attorney, he became one of the principal architects of modern Mount Holly, leaving an enduring imprint that can be seen from one city limit line to another.
Throughout his distinguished career, Kemp zealously protected and advanced the City's interests with wisdom, integrity, and unwavering dedication. He guided Mount Holly through forty three annexations, including the historic annexation of Catawba Heights, successfully defended critical municipal actions on appeal, negotiated conservation easements protecting hundreds of acres along the Catawba River, led the legal acquisition of the Mount Holly Municipal Complex, assisted with the downtown streetscape bond referendum, and tirelessly worked to advance the City’s greenway system through years of careful negotiations.
No matter the challenge or the circumstance, Kemp approached every matter, large or small, with the same commitment to excellence. From landmark development projects to everyday municipal matters, his practical counsel, steady leadership, and thoughtful judgment earned the trust and respect of generations of elected officials, employees, and citizens alike.
Kemp’s dedication to service extended well beyond City Hall. Even during serious personal health battles, including years of dialysis, a kidney transplant generously donated by his son Allen, and later cancer treatments, he continued serving his clients and community with extraordinary perseverance. He performed pro bono estate planning work for dialysis patients and families in need, advocated for organ donation awareness, and never allowed adversity to diminish his commitment to others.
His community involvement was extensive and impactful. Kemp served as President of the Mount Holly Rotary Club, where he founded the Rotary Children’s Christmas Party that continues to serve local children today. He dedicated fourteen years to the Gaston County Board of Education, including service as Chairperson, and contributed to numerous civic and charitable organizations throughout Gaston County. He also coached youth basketball, mentored countless young people, and quietly provided legal assistance to many individuals and organizations in need.
Above all, Kemp was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He treasured his family and rarely missed an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren in all of life’s moments. His kindness, humility, love of community, and appreciation for the simple beauty of everyday life left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Mayor David Moore stated, “Kemp Michael’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of Mount Holly. His leadership, vision, and steadfast service helped guide our City through decades of growth and progress. He was not only an exceptional attorney, but also a trusted advisor, mentor, and friend to many. Mount Holly is stronger because of Kemp Michael’s lifetime of service, and his contributions to this community will never be forgotten.”
The Mount Holly City Council joins Mayor Moore in extending heartfelt condolences to the entire Michael family.
The City of Mount Holly honors and celebrates the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Kemp A. Michael, a man whose dedication, compassion, and vision forever changed the community he so deeply loved.
📸 Photo Credit: Michael, Elting & Anders
