Carol M. Kempker

Carol M. Kempker, 81, of Hannibal, MO, passed away at 5:45 PM, Sunday, May 18, 2025, at her home in Hannibal, MO.
Funeral Services will be at 11:00 AM, Thursday, May 22, 2025, at James O'Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal, MO. Rev. Tim Goodman will officiate. Burial will be at Holy Family Catholic Cemetery in Hannibal, MO.
Visitation that will be from 9:30 AM AM-11:00 AM, Thursday, at the funeral home.
In honor of Carol please wear bright colors to her services.
Carol was born December 10, 1943, in Jefferson City, MO to Roy H. Booth and Lucille Mary Biele Booth.
She was married to Gilbert L. Kempker on October 2, 1965, at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Jefferson City, MO. He preceded her in death on July 25, 2013.
Survivors include her son, Mark Kempker (Shani) of Hannibal, MO; two brothers, Lawrence Lee Booth (Ruth) of Mesa, AZ, and John Edward Booth of Swansboro, NC; one sister, Mary McHargue (Mike) of New London, MO; sister-in-law, Esther Kempker of Jefferson City, MO; three grandchildren, Travis Kempker (Fiancé, Carsyn Mertgen), Trent Kempker (Fiancé, Jillian Standbridge), and Jeff Niffen (Sammi); two great grandchildren, Tucker Niffen, and Evie Niffen; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, Carol was preceded in death by her parents; sister-in-law, Karen Booth; two brothers-in-law, Thurman Kempker and Omar Kempker (Louise); and nephew, Collin McHargue.
Carol was a homemaker.
Her love for life was evident through her many interests and hobbies. She enjoyed playing bingo and was a regular at the senior dances held at the Armory. Carol's evenings were often filled with the Andy Griffith Show, Golden Girls, Bonanza and Gunsmoke. A cherished mother and grandmother, Carol's devotion to her family was the centerpiece of her life. She spent countless hours with her son, whether they were playing ball or going to the movies. Her skill in the kitchen was unmatched, with her famous cherry pie being a much-requested treat at family gatherings. Carol treasured her friends at Beth Haven West Apartments, and the joy of being part of a community there. Carol's love for her grandchildren knew no bounds. She cherished every moment spent with them, each game played, and every story told. Carol will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Carol was Christian by faith and a member of Oakwood Christian Church.
Pallbearers will be Travis Kempker, Trent Kempker, Sean McHargue, Jeff Niffen, Hal Liller, Aaron Bramblett, and Chade Liller.
Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carol, please visit our floral store.