A grandmother’s journey to embracing her gay son’s family

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Kimberly Holliman, who initially opposed her son RaShaun Kemp’s same-sex marriage due to her religious beliefs, has since embraced his family after witnessing their positive impact on their children and reevaluating her faith. Her journey of acceptance underscores the potential for shifting perspectives on LGBTQ+ relationships within traditionally conservative communities and supports broader advocacy for equal rights.

Kimberly Holliman, a grandmother from Ohio, has shared her personal journey of coming to terms with her son’s same-sex marriage and the family that has since grown from it.

Raised in the Apostolic Church, Holliman was taught that same-sex relationships were sinful, an upbringing that influenced her initial rejection of her son RaShaun Kemp’s sexuality. RaShaun came out more than two decades ago, which sparked anger and shame in Holliman, who feared the social stigma attached to having a gay son. Although she continued to pray and sought counseling, her acceptance was limited. When RaShaun announced in 2020 that he would marry his partner, Ken Kemp, Holliman again resisted, especially when her grandson Jaden was to move with them to Georgia.

Initially opposed to Jaden living with two fathers, Holliman’s perspective shifted as she observed the positive environment RaShaun and Ken provided. Jaden thrived academically, earning a full college scholarship and excelling in his new home. The arrival of RaShaun and Ken’s daughter, Brooklyn, further solidified the family bond, with Jaden embracing his role as a supportive older brother.

Reflecting on these developments, Holliman revisited counseling and deepened her spiritual reflection, coming to a new understanding of her faith and family. She concluded that her love for her son could transcend previous religious teachings and that judgment of others was inconsistent with her core beliefs. This reconciliation allowed her to embrace both her relationship with God and her support for her son’s family.

Since then, RaShaun has emerged as a respected community leader, serving as a state senator in Georgia. Holliman has witnessed the couple’s dedicated parenting firsthand, noting the stability and care they provide for their children, Brooklyn and Jaden. Time spent with other same-sex families has further expanded her perspective on gay parenting and relationships.

Holliman now advocates for equal rights and the freedom to marry, stating that her heart and mind have been opened through love and faith. She believes that “love is love” and supports the full acceptance of same-sex couples. Her story highlights the evolving dynamics of family acceptance amid changing social and religious attitudes.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.