Search by Name

Search by Name

Shala Kemp Obituary

Shala Marie Kemp, born June 6, 1973, was greeted by numerous loved ones when she entered heaven's gate on July 9, 2010.Shala was the devoted wife of Steve Kemp, often saying, "he was the best thing that ever happened to her." She greatly enjoyed praying and reading her Bible daily with Steve at her side. She loved her family and talked with them daily; she knew how to use the phone. An enjoyment for NASCAR and pinball came together with a NASCAR pinball machine; she had her own car and raced well. Taz, Spirit, and Hape were her babies, Rottweiler babies. She cared for them dearly, giving them their own rooms. She was an avid national news watcher, making sure everyone was aware of what was going on in the world.Shala is survived by her loving husband, Steve Kemp of Moore; mother, Elizabeth Sue Pratt of Norman; grandmother, "mom," Pat Coley of Oklahoma City; grandfather, Lewis Jordan of Moore; sister, Serena Graham of Norman; brother, Shawn Staats; uncle, David and Kim Rivers of Blanchard; aunt, Jane Roby of Norman; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and cousins, and a special cousin, "my girl," Jenny Roby of Norman. Services will be officiated by her uncle, Reverend David Rivers. Pallbearers will include her husband, Steve Kemp; her son, Steven Kemp; brother-in-law, Mike Graham; cousins, Jeremiah Rivers, Joshua Roby, and Cassie Rigsby; along with Laura Walker, daughter. Honorary pallbearer, Jordan Roby.The services are under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home and will be Tuesday, July 13, at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will begin Monday, July 12.The family wishes to thank the ICU nursing team at Southwest Medical Center for their tender care during her short illness.Shala is now experiencing the love of a true Father; He welcomed her into his arms.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Oklahoman on Jul. 12, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Shala Kemp

Not sure what to say?





Scott Renfroe

October 11, 2024

I lived in Oklahoma City for over 20 years in that time I just by random met and came across this most wonderful and unique woman named Shala Statts. For about 6 months I was her secret admirer and she was my best bud. For someone who had experienced such an distraught and depressing childhood this produced one of the most sweet and caring women I've ever met in my entire life! I experienced some of those most wonderful times with her when I knew her! We had parted ways and I'd moved to South Florida. I missed her and even went online to try to see what she's been up to when I discovered her passing. I 'm heart broken Shala you were such an special person and shone such an bright light on my life I will forever miss you my wonderful friend! RIP sweetie!

Sara Miles

July 9, 2018

I have loved this chick since I was 15...miss you dearly and I know you are at peace until we meet again!

Corinna Hutchinson

July 10, 2011

Shala, I cant say we were the best of friends, I cant say we had great times, but I can say you were always you, the best you knew how to be, maybe if we had met under diffrent circumstances, but it is what it is. I have to say I was shocked and my heart broke when I was given this by our mutual friend Russ. I can only hope and pray that your family has answers and peace of mind now. One day I hope to see that pretty smile again, Rest in Peace beautiful girl!

Michelle Warehime

June 21, 2011

I'm very saddened to hear of Shala's passing. I hadn't heard from her in almost 18 years. We sort of lost touch after I got married and started having kids... But I've thought about her often and missed her presence in my life and hoped that one day our paths would cross again... So it breaks my heart to hear that she left this world all too soon. She was a truly good friend with so much love and compassion for others. When we were younger I would marvel at how caring and nurturing she was for someone her age... It didn't matter who it was or how old they were, she always took it upon herself to nurture those around her like a little mother hen. She made everyone feel loved and special. She was a truly amazing person and I'm grateful to have known her.

Russell Baldridge

June 21, 2011

Shala and I were close friends twenty years ago. In the summer of 1991 we lived in N.W. Oklahoma city. It was one of the best summers of my life and I reflect back fondly on it. I was blessed to have known her. She was a wonderful, giving, caring, soul and our world will be a bit dimmer in her absence. My father was just talking about her a few months back. He passed away in a motorcycle accident on April 9. We were all very good friends. I am sure they are reunited, and in a much better place.
Steve, my condolences go out to you and your family. I am sure this last year has been no picnic as I can relate to your loss. You and your family will be in my prayers.

KAREN KRISE

September 20, 2010

it seem like yesterday i would go down to there house to make sure the girls were up for school i loved them like they were my own R.I.P BABY GIRL

karen krise

September 19, 2010

my heart goes out to shalas family i knew shala when she was a little girl she was like a daughter to me we kept in touch thru myspace and then lost contact with her she was a sweet girl and i will miss you dearly r.i.p baby girl serena if you read this sweety please call me 315-389-4027

Amy Krise

September 19, 2010

I Have been a Long time Friend of Shala and Have some very found memories of her and i. she was My Big sister. I was a only child and spent many hours, days and sometimes weeks with her, Serena and there brother shawn. I Last spoke to shala just before she married and was so happy for her and more happy that she had found me over the years. I Have searched for her many times but cam up empty handed and when i do locate her only to hear the worst. Steve i never meet you but I do know shala was So happy and eager to marry you.you did complete her in every way. Shala I love and miss you and you will always be in my heart.. R.IP

Sara Miles

July 27, 2010

I will miss her...so glad i got a chance to know her on this earth!

Harvey Conner

July 14, 2010

Steve, I am truly saddened to hear about the passing of your wife. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

April Franklin

July 14, 2010

I am saddened to hear about your loss, Shala was a great friend when we were in school together at Bridge Creek. She was there when you needed someone to talk to. She was a good hearted person then and now i am sure. I was glad to know her. It sounds like she had a great life! April Franklin (Clark)

July 12, 2010

It only seems like yesterday when Shala would grab at my glasses when she was just an infant. Gods ways are higher and greater than we could ever imagine.

Janet Oliver

July 12, 2010

Steve, We are so sadden to hear of your loss. We never had the pleasure of meeting your beautiful wife but knowing she was married to you speaks for itself. You are a wonderful & thoughful person.
She will be truly missed by all who knew her.
Please let us know if we can do anything for you.
You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
With sincere sympathy, David & Janet Oliver

Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results

Make a Donation
in Shala Kemp's name

Memorial Events
for Shala Kemp

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Shala's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Shala Kemp's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more