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VELMA KEMP Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for VELMA KEMP
becky punzo
June 24, 2012
You were my favorite teacher at airline park elememtary school when i was in second grade and them my principal at Riverdale. You taught my brothers also. You were a great educator who was clearly dedicated to your profession and to children. Thanks and sympathy to your family
Vikki Nettles Swearingen
April 23, 2012
I just found out about Mrs. Kemp and am deeply saddened. She ran a very tight ship and reminded us every day that we were "young ladies" and that there was nothing we couldn't accomplish if we tried hard enough. Thank you Mrs Kemp - I wonder if the Angels will allow you to measure their hemlines............
March 27, 2012
A dear friend of Aunt Velma's and a former student teacher have suggested to me that the Jefferson Parish School Board be petitioned to re-name Riverdale in Aunt Velma's honor, Velma T. Kemp High School. I am not a resident of Jefferson Parish, and for me to initiate such a change would seem to be self-serving. If you are interested in pursuing this project, please be in touch with me via this site. Also please share the idea with your Facebook friends. If enough are in favor of the idea, perhaps we can achieve it over the summer. Thank you so much.
Lori Kraus
March 20, 2012
We Kolleens should remember her announcements at the beginning of our school day. I forget a lot nowadays, but I could never forget, "Shamrocks and Shillelaghs to you!" What a pleasure to read about all of her accomplishments here in her memory book. Makes me wish I had known her better. And to think she lived her final years here in Houston... I live in neighboring Cypress. We all should take this to heart and make sure the ones we love & admire know our feelings while they are still with us. We could all benefit from such relationships & learn how to live our lives with their grace, knowledge and inspirations. What a rich a beautiful life!!! Thank you, Mrs. Kemp! We were all blessed by your existence, love & your inspiration. They dont make 'em like you anymore!!! Surely heaven is now rejoicing!!!
Lori Raines Kraus
Cypress, Texas
Class of 77
Lori Kraus
March 20, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was The Original Kolleen!!
Lori Raines Kraus
Class of 77
Tina Wood
March 16, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was a formidable presence at Riverdale. Too bad kids today don't have that. She ran the school with an iron fist, something sorely needed today. May she rest in peace...T Wood class of 1967
Janene Damiano
March 15, 2012
R.I..P. Mrs. Kemp... you will be missed by all..... GKHS Class of '77
Beverly Smith
March 15, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was a great help to me during some very difficult trying times with my family, she offered me help in a situation well above the call of duty and I will always be very grateful to her. On the lighter side, we, the students of Riverdale were always aware of the proper length of our skirts... to not be above two inches of the knee and I can still see her cruising the halls, yardstick in hand, ready to measure anything that looked too short. She will be well remembered by many. May God bless your family. Sincerely yours, Beverly Smith, President Senior Class '68 Riverdale High.
Janet Parratt Tessier
March 15, 2012
I feel honored to have attended Riverdale High as a new school in 1967 where Mrs. Kemp was principal. Although I attended a public school, I feel the education we received there at that time was excellent. Had it not been for the strict rules of Mrs. Kemp, many of us would not have grown into the "young ladies" that she strived to create. I remember running out the back door of the bus in fear that my dress would not touch the ground as I kneeled to pass her inspection :)
My deepest condolences go to her family and loved ones. May God surround you with His majestic love and lead you through your loss. Although Mrs. Kemp filled our hearts with fear at times, she always had our highest respect.
Janet Parratt Tessier - Class of 1967
Sherron Pogue-Bumgardner
March 15, 2012
Deepest sympathy to the Kemp family. She will definitely be remembered by many as the principal that wanted all her girls to be "young ladies". Kneeing to make sure your skirt touched the floor and measuring your hair to make sure it wasnt teased "too high" was something done every morning. She watched as we all walked into school. It was like she had eyes everywhere.She did not miss a thing. I enjoy sharing memories of those times with my family.Sherron class of 1967 Riverdale High School
March 14, 2012
March 14,2012
Mrs. Kemp was Principal of Riverdale HS when I began teaching. I, as a 20 year old new teacher, was excited and a little frightened to begin my teaching career. I remember Mrs. Kemp standing in front of the faculty on that first day and starting her welcome with the words "Welcome to the best faculty in the South." I knew immediately that no one was better suited to lead us. I also taught under her guidance at Grace King. She shaped and influenced me as a teacher and I will always be gratful to her. After 45 years Mrs. Kemp is still a model I look up to ... May she rest in peace.
Vivien Oliva, RHS and GK 1967-1978
Jane LaBruyere Strahan, GK 1970
March 14, 2012
I read a poem today that reminded me of Mrs. Kemp. After reading some of the posts left I knew this poem was perfect.
The Dash Poem by Linda Ellis
http://www.thedashmovie.com/linda
Mrs. Kemp has a dash that lives on in the memories of many Lassies and Kolleens. She helped to shape many young girls into women.
Belle Butler Burnthorn
March 13, 2012
I remember Mrs Kemp fondly. She was my 3rd Grade teacher at Airline Park Elementary School. Every day as we left class she would give us a hug. I felt very loved by her. Later when I entered High School she was my principal at Riverdale High School. The Class of 1969 loved her. Such a remarkable role model for us.
My mother wrote a poem for her back in 1960:
TRIBUTE TO MRS KEMP
by Edna Butler 1960
The old school clock upon the wall
Will soon stand still until the fall
Minutes slowly ticking by
How we wish that they would fly
But a little we will grieve
For Mrs. Kemp we have to leave
She was always full of fun
When our lessons we had done
Many times we thought to shirk
Laze awhile, get out of work,
But Mrs. Kemp knew we must learn
For love and knowledge was her concern
Laying the foundation true
Of strong Americans me and you
So our thanks to you this day
Mrs. Kemp we want to say
Thank you for your kindly heart
A tear, a smile, then we must part
The ticking clock says we must go
Goodbye teacher, we love you so.
Belle Butler Burnthorn (Lake Charles, La)
Estella Lain
March 12, 2012
To the Family of Mrs. Velma T. Kemp:
You have my deepest sympathy and heart-felt prayers. In 1969 I joined the Biology faculty at Grace King High School (my first teaching assignment). Mrs. Kemp's leadership style, guidance, and direction had a major influence on my career as an educator/administrator. She was the Best!!
Aileen Keeley
March 11, 2012
Glenna, what a legacy to have a mother who helped form history and led the way for other female educators. It is remarkable to have been a part of that time period when she embraced her love of excellence and definitely proved women can accomplish anything when they use their talents and put their heart into it. Grace King's first graduating class celebrated our 40th reunion and not one student failed to remember her name. To me, that spoke volumes. She instilled values in many, many young ladies and it was an honor to have known such a remarkable woman.
Antoinette Catoire Villio
March 11, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was my high school principal for 3 of my 4 years at Grace King. She was an AWESOME principal!! She was sorely missed our senior year. The Class of 1976 loved her!! She will always be remembered by our class. My sincere condolences to her family. She was a great lady!! Shamrocks to You, Mrs Kemp!! Antoinette Catoire Villio
Susan Lotz
March 11, 2012
As the Principal of my High School- Grace King, our classmates might call her the "Iron Lady" of the 1970's....she was a very caring principal who wished..."all of her girls were safe!"
March 10, 2012
I, like many others, went to Riverdale under Mrs. Kemp's supervison, but by the time I graduated, she had moved on to Grace King High. She was one terrific woman and I want to send my deepest sympathys to her daughter and let her know she had a very special mom.
Susan Tavares Willis Johnson
March 10, 2012
Thank you Mrs. Kemp for providing us with a role model that was unwavering in her beliefs. Surely it was tough to stand up for what she felt was right, while hearing hundreds of girls complaining, daily. I understand now that we need more educators with her dedication and vision. We were under her influence during the racial unrest and feminine movement of the late 60's and early 70's. The South was divided in many ways but her guidance kept us on the course of self-respect, knowledge and peace. It was an era when most girls only went to college to find husbands and we were not expected to have full time jobs other than raising our families. Last November, the class of 1971 celebrated together at our 40th reunion. It was wonderful to see that so many of us have gone on to become not only smart Moms, but business associates, teachers, entrepreneurs and artists. I could fill a book with my feelings about Mrs. Kemp, but hopefully it will suffice to say THANK YOU for touching so many lives with your wisdom.
March 10, 2012
I graduated from Riverdale in 1967 and still remember her greeting on the intercom, Good Morning, Young Ladies.
As I recall, this generally resulted in a groan from the young ladies. By current standards, we went to school in the Medieval Ages - clear nail polish, no pants, no sandals, no boys and you better not be late! She set a standard for excellence in education that we all took for granted and now know how hard it is to achieve. Reading about her background in the obituary, you know why.
There are people and institutions that help a person define themselves. For this, I give Mrs. Kemp and Riverdale my thanks.
God bless Ms. Kemp and her family at this sad time.
Marilyn L Prince
Rose Holden Bean
March 10, 2012
The Kemp Family
Mrs. Kemp was by far my most memorable principal. Her love for the girls at Grace King and her ability to impart seamless wisdom and discipline to both the AM and PM shift was noteworthy. I'm a Lieuteant Colonel currently deployed to Afghanistan. I was speaking with a group of Soldiers that was complaining about how strict their high school principal was. I shared a few stories about Mrs. Kemp to include her dress code policy and her ruler. Her reply for non-compliance of her dress code policy was almost always a comment such as "young lady, call your parents and have them bring you another set of clothing". Their reply was "what kind of school was that? My response was Velma T. Kemp's all girls school. What a legend! So many memories. My prayer is that God will continue to bless and keep the members of her family and extended school family that benefitted greatly from her tulelage. "Shamrocks To All"
Diane Chun-Groce
March 9, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Glenna & family. Mrs. Kemp was a force to be reckoned with, and she commanded respect from all who walked the halls of Grace King. Her morning announcements will stay etched in my memory, and I'm sure she's keeping watch still. Rest in Peace Mrs. Kemp...you did a fine job.
Karen Cox Kieffer
March 9, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was the stem of the Shamrock's . She touched so many lives and a piece of her will live thur the lives of all the Shamrocks that she guided thru the years. Prayers to all family member and friends. Karen Cox Kieffer (Folsom, La )
Lesha Schreiber
March 9, 2012
Kemp Family
May God bless your family at your time of your lost.. May she rest in peace in God's arms.. Lesha Slocum Schreiber class of Grace King 1978
Peggy King
March 9, 2012
Thank you to the many friends, past students and teachers who shared our family's celebration of Aunt Velma's life today. Your posts are so appreciated. As someone who was in high school in BR at the same time many of you were attending either Riverdale or Grace King, I "heard about her" often (smile) from you at conventions (remember FTA and SGA conventions at the Capitol House in BR?). Seeing her in the loving hands of many of her past students and teachers as she was laid to rest truly was an inspiration that will remain with me forever. And special thanks to Loretta Brehm, Mary LeBlanc, Cyndi Duke, Nila Surgi, and Dusty Manson for performing the Delta Kappa Gamma Ceremony of Remembrance. Leigh, you did a wonderful job capturing her life in your beautiful obituary. We missed you. Again, many thanks to you all and love to my family!
Virginia Francois &Jefferson RetiredTeachers
March 9, 2012
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Mrs Kemp worked very hard with the Jefferson Parish Retired Teachers' Association. Because of mrs. Kemp and others like her - we are still achieving many of our.goals.
Melinda larsen
March 9, 2012
We agree she was a legemd om her own time. We are never able to look at a 12 inch ruler without thinking of Mrs. Kemp and her rules about short skirts and tall hair. RIP Mrs. Kemp you continued to prove you were a great leader during the Kennedy assassination by keeping everyone calm and by keeping girls calm during segregation issues and feminist movements.
Margarette Duke Galley class of 65
Melinda David Larsen class of 72
Diana Stetler Seely class of 72
March 9, 2012
I will never forget skirt check with the
ruler and the fun days at Grace King.
First graduating class 1970.
Deborah Ann Phillips
RIP Mrs Kemp
Peggy Sapir
March 9, 2012
My sincerest sympathies to the family of Mrs. Kemp. I went to Ella Dolhonde & was a Freshman at Riverdale in 69. My Mother was also a friend of Mrs. Kemp. She was a teacher for a while at Ella Dolhonde and was the Chaplain of the Retired Teachers Assn. I will always remember & respect Mrs. Kemp. She was a dedicated educator & made the students have a healthy respect for discipline. I too shall never forget her affinity for the infamous ruler & short skirts.
She was an excellent example for the students to follow and was a good person.
Judy Luchsinger
March 9, 2012
It was an HONOR for me to serve as one of Mrs. Kemp's Pallbearer's today. I was extremely fortunate to have taught with Mrs. Kemp at Riverdale High School and Grace King High School. Mrs. Kemp encouraged her students to strive for excellence and expected her teachers to put forth their best efforts EVERYDAY! I would like to share one particular memory with you of the many that I have while teaching with Mrs. Kemp. When at Riverdale, we were headed to Baton Rouge for the State Literary Rally with two busses of students. One of the bus drivers was driving exceptionally fast! Mrs. Kemp whipped her big Oldsmobile around the bus and motioned for the driver to pull over. She said to the driver: "We will get to the Rally but we will not BREAK SPEED LIMITS in doing so."
REST IN PEACE, Mrs. Kemp.
Sandra Ducote Dearie
March 9, 2012
RIP, Mrs. Kemp....Grace King class of '73
Rainell Saurage- Price
March 9, 2012
Many fond memories of Mrs. Kemp from my years at Riverdale. She gave us pep talks when needed and was always there for us. A wonderful person and an outstanding educator. My sincere condolences to her family.
Jo Anne Azzarello Martiny
March 9, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was a legend in her own time. She will always be remembered for her ruler for short skirts but she was a huge influence on all of her students. RIP Mrs. Kemp. Riverdale 1969.
M'Liss Mitchell
March 9, 2012
I have alot of memories of Mrs. Kemp all during high school. One was at Riverdale when the entire school gave her and her husband a cruise at the end of the year. A total surprise to both Mrs. Kemp and her husband. Even though she was strict, the whole school respected her immensely. Later, I knew her at Grace King where she was the principal and I was a student, both part of that first graduating class of 1970. Too bad the girls of today's generation will not know her. I will remember her, as will many other generations fondly. Glenna, your mother was the best and will be missed,.
Myla Gilman Kreinik
March 9, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was a great "Lassie". She was a role model to me while I was a student at Riverdale. I know she will be missed by all whose lives she touched.
Barbara Begault
March 9, 2012
My condolences to the family of Mrs. Kemp. I attended Grace King High - 1975 graduate. RIP Mr. Kemp.
Susan Baio Hummel
March 9, 2012
I remember Mrs. Kemp as my third grade teacher at Ella Delhonde and finally my principal at Riverdale High School(69'). She was a strong woman respected and admired. I'm sure she paved the way for many young women in her profession by her dedication and love of teaching. Little did I know at the time, I would become an educator as she was for many years. She was a beacon for all women to look up to. We will miss you, Mrs. Kemp, but you will not be forgotten. Thank you.
Leslie Sanborn Kelly
March 9, 2012
Velma Kemp treated her students with dignity and respect by expecting the best from them. I was blessed to have had her as principal during my time at Grace King. I treasure the memories of her morning admonitions, pep talks, and lessons on manners given over the PA system after the Pledge of Allegiance.
March 9, 2012
So many fond memories of her as our principal and educator, never will forget the 'yardstick' rule for skirt hems! She instilled in us the true spirit of many fun-filled days. Barbara (Mader) Gaignard, GKHS '71
March 9, 2012
Mrs.Kemp, You gave us very high standards and very long skirts! I cherish those days at RHS.
Jeannie Kunz Liford - Class of '69
'
Gloria Tabor
March 9, 2012
Some say that you never know what you have until it is gone. There are many women who are feeling this sense of loss now, probably more than any of us ever expected. Mrs. Kemp, or Velma T, as we referred to her behind her back, was a woman who touched and influenced so many lives. Although we were young girls, she always addressed us as "Young Ladies" because that is what she expected us to become. Thank you, Mrs. Kemp for helping us become the women that you envisioned. I hope that we didn't disappoint you! My deepest condolences to you, Glenna and all of your family. May you rest in peace on a soft bed of shamrocks, Velma T!
Gloria Beach Tabor
GKHS Class of 1975
Jeanne Renton
March 8, 2012
My condolances to the family, I am so sorry for your loss! I was in the 1st graduating class of Grace King, 1970! Mrs Kemp ran a tight ship, I know we gave her a run for her money! :) A smile comes to my face when I think about Mrs Kemp sewing paper ruffles to our skirts when they were a bit too short! I will always remember my time at Riverdale & Grace King with fond memories!
Suzanne Bazajou
March 8, 2012
Mrs. Kemp's influence and guidance was the driving force behind the excellence at Grace King High School. Following her retirement, during my years there, she was honored in so many ways...respected by many and loved by all. What an excellent woman...
Suzanne Bazajou, Class of 1978
Z Suzanne Broussard
March 8, 2012
Have and will always remember Mrs. Kemp as one who understood me, who listend to me during my study hall senior year, and treated and talked to me as an adult.
March 8, 2012
I remember Mrs. Kemp from Ella Dolhonde and Riverdale. I graduated from riverdale in 1962. We had the largest graduating class of all. I believe it was 862 young ladies. Mrs. Kemp will be sadly missed. Class of 69" Audry Sequeira Barousse.
Lena C Wimprine
March 8, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was a lady with Class of her own. She was the greatest Educator I have ever known. She taught her Kolleen's well. She taught us to be ladies, she taught us to be smart ladies and ladies with class. She had a sweet wonderful side to her, but again she had a iron hand. She kept you in line in her own way, but you still had all the respect in the world for her. She will never be forgotten. She will always be remembered for her "Good Morning Kolleen's" How are you this morning?" She was a treasure in her own? I know she made her family and friends proud. I have never got to meet her family but I am sure she is going to Heaven with a big smile on her face because she knows her family is very proud of her, because she has influenced many many people in her lifetime. She is a Special lady and will be a Special Angel Looking down on us all. She will be missed by all.... GKHS Class of 1977
Cathy Maher Richard
March 8, 2012
I had the pleasure of knowing this wonderful lady and her family. She was like a grandmother to me as a child, and she was a role model for us to follow. She was generous to me and my family. I will never forget all the fun I had with her and her family. Thanks for all the wonderful memories. I know she is happy to be reunited with her husband in heaven. Prayers to her family!
March 8, 2012
I remember kneeling after getting off of the bus to make sure our skirts were long enough.. You provided a sense of dignity! Proud to be a Riverdale grad '69!
Kathy Torroll
March 8, 2012
RIP Ms. Kemp.....
Cindy Smith
March 8, 2012
Condolences to your family. Thank you for teaching a bunch of Jefferson Parish girls to be young ladies. My daughters are young ladies, too. You affected more than one generation. We'll think about you at our 40th reunion in May.
Cindy Smith - GK Class of 72
March 8, 2012
Condolences to all of Mrs. Kemp's family and friends at their loss. I remember Mrs. Kemp well not only as a member of Riverdale High School's first graduating class (1964), but also as one of Riverdale's first college graduates to return "home" as a teacher of Mathematics at Riverdale for five years. She was a strong leader to have been a successful Principal at the new unique all girls' public high school in the 1960's. This Lassie bids you a farewell. Judy (Perkins) Raviotta, (Goochland, VA)
Michele Cook Burton
March 8, 2012
I did not appreciate Mrs. Kemp while I was at Riverdale, but many times since then I have been grateful to her for the high standards she had for "her girls". The world should have more teachers/principals like her. Condolences to her family. Rest in Peace, Mrs. Kemp
angela shelley
March 8, 2012
mrs. kemp was an inspirational, classy lady! i attended riverdale high the year it opened & have nothing but fond memories of the way she interacted with students...what a well-lived life!
March 8, 2012
My prayers to the family. May your memories keep you smiling. Lynda Villarrubia Matthews, Riverdale, Class of '66.
Brigitte Boraks Becker
March 8, 2012
What an inspiration Mrs. Kemp was to all of us who had the distinct honor of her guidance. I'm a Riverdale graduate of 1969, my thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Candace Broecker Penn
March 8, 2012
Moving to Metairie from Maryland as a junior, I was quite surprised one September morning to be called into Mrs. Kemp's office and finding her standing with her ruler measuring the shortness of my dress, and being reprimanded. She was stern and adamant about being a lady. Senior year, she managed our foray into split schedules of morning and afternoons fearlessly. Quite a force of nature! Many fond memories of times at GKHS. Class of '71. Mrs. Kemp, I hope you are running thru shamrocks.
March 8, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was a Great lady and principal of Grace King. We were her "Young Ladies" and she ruled us with a yardstick for our hems. I have many memories due to her,
Thanks Mrs. Kemp
Sharon Parrino Murry c/o 1970
Wanda Ruiz
March 8, 2012
My condolences to the family.
Patti (Flores) Lazarre
March 8, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was admired and an inspiration to all of the students while I knew her at Riverdale and at Grace King. She had so much to give and gave with all of her heart. Much love to all of her family.
Linda Morrison Slaughter
March 8, 2012
Deepest sympathy to Mrs. Kemp's family. She truly made a difference in the lives of the young women in the Riverdale Class of 1964. May she rest in peace; she was a great mentor.
Beverly Favalora
March 8, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was the most caring, thoughtful and amazing woman. I had the pleasure of knowing her my time at Grace King High School. Each morning she would come over the P.A. sytem with her standard greeting, "Shamrocks to All". I will never forget her and to you, Mrs. Kemp, "Shamrock to You"! My prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Grace King High School Class of 1975
Linda Oncale Soniat
March 8, 2012
What an accomplished woman! Truly an inspiration to all of your students @ Riverdale. You gave us your strength and your sense of humor. Thank you! Dance on, Bonnie Lassie, You will be missed.....
Linda Oncale Soniat, Riverdale Class of '64
March 8, 2012
Little did we realize as young girls what an impact this wonderful lady would have on our lives. She was stern when needed as well as compassionate, and did have a great sense of humor. She was definitely the heart and soul of Grace King and we were privileged to have known her and to have been her last graduating class. Rest in God's loving embrace, Mrs. Kemp, where all things are Irish and meadows full of shamrocks to you!
Kathy King Willmott
Grace King Class of 1975
Mary Mormino Alack
March 8, 2012
I loved Mrs. Kemp. She was my principal at Grace King High School from 1968 to 1972. She ran the school like a private girl school. I remember when we would get off the bus, she would measure our skirts to make sure they were the proper length. We never have problems at the school. What a wonderful person and contribution she made to all she touched. Loving memories and God Bless to the family.
Jolene Murden Salito
March 8, 2012
I remember the first time I went to her office at Grace King she looked up from her paper work and told me make it short but factual. So I did and got my punishment and left her office. I was not one to see her office much but she remember the visits very well. At our 20 year reunion she was standing at the door when I walked in and she stopped her conversation an came and called me by name and hugged me . She always made an impression on me and it is funny to think I must have left my hard headed stubborn , determination mark on her! She will be greatly missed buy a lot of girls she touched! My prayers for her and her family.
March 8, 2012
Goodbye to a grand lady. I spent 3 years with her at Riverdale. My condolences to her family. RIP, Mrs. Kemp!
Sharon Hayles Corbett ~ Winter Park, FL
RHS Class of 1969
Janice Rackley
March 8, 2012
I can still hear Mrs. Kemp's voice coming over the loud speaker every morning addressing us as "Young Ladies . . ." She was my principal and a member of my church. My prayers are with her family.
Janice Fredericks Rackley
March 8, 2012
Mrs. Kemp was my 3rd grade teacher at Ella Delhone and when I went to Riverdale she was the principal. She was a great teacher and principal. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Regards,
Sandra Landry Terminie
March 8, 2012
I have very fond memories of Mrs. Kemp, probably because I spend quite a bit of time in her office till she left for Grace King. At first it was not my choice, but after I got to know her, I'd just visit on my own. She had a lasting impact on my life. She and her family will be in my prayers.
Robin Fairfield Negrotto (Carriere, MS)
Evelyn Hopes
March 8, 2012
The simple fact of so many responses indicates the influence Mrs. Kemp had on her students. My prayers are with the family at this time and may she rest in eternal peace, knowing her job was well done.
ROSE NAQUIN-CAMPISO
March 8, 2012
MY PRAYERS AND HEARTFELT SYMPATHY GO OUT TO MRS.KEMP'S FAMILY.I WAS AT RIVERDALE IN THE LATE 60'S AND YOU BETTER BELIEVE AS A YOUNG LADY YOU BETTER ACT LIKE ONE.MOST OF US WERE SO AFRAID OF MRS.KEMP,YOU WOULD ALMOST HOLD YOUR BREATH WHEN YOU PASSED HER OUT OF FEAR OF BREATHING TOO LOUD.BUT ONCE YOU TALKED WITH HER ONE ON ONE YOU REALIZED SHE WOULD ALWAYS BE THERE TO HELP YOU.SHE ENCOURAGED ME TO JOIN THE GLEE CLUB AND I LOVED IT.MAY GOD REST HER SOUL.SHE MADE A GREAT IMPACT ON SO MANY OF US.
Dee Derbes Muenzler
March 8, 2012
Who could ever forget you. I remember you fondly as a fair and gracious lady, one who let us know how special we all were and as a 1964 first graduate of Riverdale, we talk of you with respect at our reunions. Rest in Peace
Deirdre (Dee) Derbes Mather-Muenzler - Baton Rouge
Susan Vrbaskovich
March 8, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the Kemp family. I have really great memories of her at Grace King. Class of 1976 - Susan Schloegel Vrbaskovich
Margaret Goodman
March 8, 2012
My career as a teacher and an administrator started at Riverdale in September 1962 where as a first year teacher, I met Velma. I moved with her from Riverdale to Grace King, where I remained until I became the English Consultant. Velma modeled teaching for me with her sense of "doing what is right" for every student and teacher she worked with. She was patient and caring with me and I have never stopped appreciating the lessons I learned from her. I last saw Velma at a Grace King Reunion prior to Katrina and am thankful that we shared happy memories and a LIVELY conversation at that time.
Denise Riviere McCarthy
March 8, 2012
mrs. kemp made a very big impact on my life. you were the best!! you guided us well when you were at grace king. you are gone but not forgotten. you can be among all the shamrocks now..
March 8, 2012
At the time I just felt Mrs. Kemp was stern and rigid. Now after many years I realized that she did know best. I wish I had thanked her in person for all she did for the girls of Grace King. She helped make me the women I became. I would like to thank her family now. Rest in peace Mrs. Kemp.
Kathie Fiorito Clinton (Grace King Class of 1972)
Cheryl Lucia
March 8, 2012
I have such fond memories of Mrs. Kemp from Grace King..Her morning greetings on the school PA...she sure was a no-nonsense lady and taught hundreds of young girls to be true ladies. I still remember her ruler for measuring the height of your skirts!!! May she rest in peace. She gained much respect through the years and will be fondly remembered. Class of 75!!!
March 8, 2012
Remembering Mrs. Kemp fondly. I was in the first graduating class from Riverdale High School, and were treated like young ladies, what a great experience.
Colleen Rigdon Bowen
March 8, 2012
Rest in peace, Mrs Kemp. As a member of the 1st graduatiog class of Riverdale High School, I have many fond memories of you. Thanks for doing your best in trying to keep us on the straight and narrow way.
Cathy Bevinetto Smith
March 8, 2012
Glenna, I am very sorry for the loss of your mom. Your mother was feared and revered by so many young ladies of East Jefferson. Thank you very much for sharing her with us all. Although others may disagree, we believe that she saved her best graduating class for last, GK Class of 1975! She became an inspiration to many of us! We feared her in 1971, but by May 1975, we came to respect and love her dearly, an admiration that continues today and always. Shamrocks to you Mrs. Kemp!
As you are laid to rest, I picture you dancing around a pot of gold with Papa Kemp in a field of shamrocks surrounded by leprechauns and Kolleens who passed before you. The words to the music playing...We sing your name with praise & deep devotion, you gave to us, your loyalty and love; within these walls, we learned to share together, the times of joy, of triumph, of tears; your bright star illumes our lives forever, we sing our praise to you...Mrs. Kemp!!
Dianne Swiber
March 8, 2012
Like so many others who have written here, I had nothing but respect for Mrs. Kemp. She had a challenging job at Grace King, running a large school split into to morning and afternoon shifts. She damanded excellence from everyone and she set the example for us. It was obvious that education was her passion. I extend my deepest sympathy to all her family and thank God for sharing her with us for so many years. The number of lives she was able to touch during that time is immeasurable. May she rest in peace among the angels.
Dianne Swiber (Grace King Class of 1974)
Janet D'Arcangelo-Triche
March 8, 2012
Great memories from GK days. Mrs. Kemp to me was very nice and stern. She had professional class about herself . She was admirable. I last saw her at our 20th class reunion 1994. Class of '74
Colleen McCarthy
March 7, 2012
When I think of Grace King, I think of Mrs. Kemp. She was the soul of the school. May you rest in peace in a bed of shamrocks!!!!! Class of 77
March 7, 2012
Mrs. Kemp had a way of making us believe in ourselves. We were proud to be ladies....and proud to be brilliant.
Ann Alderete
Grace King High School
Class of 1974
Glenda April Castro
March 7, 2012
I know they say you can't go home again . . . But Mrs. Kemp built the school that made me. I am so thankful that she followed her heart from her childhood days of playing school. Mrs. Kemp demanded respect but she returned it as well. Oh, how little did we know during those years that we recognize so quickly today. She treated us like young ladies and in return expected us to act the part. I ran into Mrs Kemp and Mr Kemp at a parade about 15 years ago and she knew me right away. Heaven greeted you with an armload of shamrocks!
Adaline Villneurve Rutherford
March 7, 2012
Mrs. Kemp will be remembered as a strict but loving principal. May her light continue to shine in all of us...especially those who chose to become educators. Shamrocks to you! Class of 1978 and teacher at Lake Harbor Middle School in Mandeville, LA.
Melanie Coleman Rotherham
March 7, 2012
Mrs. Kemp will always be remembered as the heart and soul of Grace King. One classy lady that gave her most to all us girls. Shamrocks to you !
LaVerne Mars
March 7, 2012
Just the mention of your name brings back so many fond memories of my days at Grace King. I always had a lot of respect for you, Mrs. Kemp and I admired your courage. My deepest sympathy for the Kemp family. You are all in my prayers. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Charlene Eickel Sirman
March 7, 2012
Mrs. Kemp, you were responsibe for helping many girls become productive young (and now old-er) ladies who have given back to others with skills and grace that you helped them learn. Thank you for being there for us - even if it was with a ruler for our skirts! God broke the mold when he made you! And I thank Him that He gave you to us. Shamrocks to you, Mrs. Kemp! Class of 72
Beth Maffe-Ortiz
March 7, 2012
My memories of Grace King back in the 70's could not go with out remembering Ms. Kemp. Was strict but fair. RIP
March 7, 2012
Thanks for the memories. Glenna, remembering you and your family in our prayers tonight. So much time has passed, but will always remember you on our senior class trip to New York. Hoping they days ahead are eased by all the memories you and yours will share. Cherylyn Corb Cernobyl, Class of 1964
Amy Robichaux
March 7, 2012
May God give your family the strength they need to get through this trying time!!! What a wonderful Principal and person...may you rest in peace..Shamrocks to you!!!.Class of 1977
Jo Ann Nunes
March 7, 2012
Deepest sympathy to Mrs. Kemp's family. As our Principal from, 1962-1964, she was tough, but well respected. She served our Class of 1964 well!
Angel Thoman
March 7, 2012
"Good Morning Kolleens" What an honor the students of Jefferson Parish Schools had with a Teacher and Principal as Mrs. Kemp. I am very grateful to have had Mrs. Kemp as my principal and in later years a few telephone talks. I know she touched many young lives and hearts with wonderful memories. Deepest condolences to the families.
Thank you and Shamrock to you! Mrs Kemp
Angel Chedville Thoman GK Class of 74
desiree roth
March 7, 2012
Mrs. Kemp, our high school principal at Grace King was such a special person. All fellow Kolleens will have fond memories of Mrs. Kemp. Desiree Roth Harrison GK Class of 1976
Sandy Wise-Villafranco
March 7, 2012
You were a GREAT principal, Mrs. Kemp! Shamrocks to you and may the angels be with you. Class of 1976 will lucky to have you. Condolences to the family.
Nancy Brown
March 7, 2012
Rest in peace Mrs. Kemp. She took her role as principal of Grace King High School very seriously and is one of the few people I can truly say earned every ounce of respect. Didn't know that as a teenager but appreciate it now. God bless the Kemp family.
Virginia Zeigler
March 7, 2012
What a brave and strong soul! She demanded excellence from teachers and students. She insured the quality of our education. But it is the example of a strong, capable woman, that inspired many of us Grace King Colleens to follow in her footsteps. I honor you, Mrs. Kemp.
Alice Barber Heck
March 7, 2012
Mrs. Kemp you will be missed. Thank you for the memories and times we shared. My deepest condolences to Glenna and your family.
May you be laid to rest on a bed of Shamrocks.
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