Susan Kemp Dedian

1931 - 2021

DEDIAN, Susan Kemp, 89, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2021, at Manorhouse in Richmond. Sue was born on July 13, 1931, in Waukegan, Illinois, to the late Hebert and Helen Roos. She was predeceased by her first husband of 32 years, Dr. Verbon Eric Kemp Jr. She was also predeceased by her second husband of 28 years, Charles Dedian. After graduating from college, Sue and Eric married in June 1953 and eventually settled in Richmond, Eric's hometown. Sue continued with her education and went on to receive a M.Ed. and an Ed.D. in Special Education all while raising three children. Sue retired from her career in 1985 when Eric passed away. Several years later, Sue met Charlie and they wed. Sue loved to shop, cook, sew, needlepoint, travel and spend time at Virginia Beach. As Sue aged, she loved being with her grandchildren as much as possible. Family was everything to Sue. She was known as Gaga to many, especially from her days volunteering in the Deep Run High School clinic. Sue is survived by her children, John Kemp (Erin), Sally Edwards (Drew), Susie Ellington (Dave) and Melissa Burke (Kevin); grandchildren, Kristen Valentin (Julian), Lauren Peck (Evan), Taylor Kemp (Brittany), Kemp Edwards, Zach Edwards, Eric Ellington (Tiffany), Rachael Ellington, Ryan Burke (Lisa), Allison Burke; as well as nine great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Sue is also survived by her devoted sister, Sally Vaden (Donny), to whom she was especially close. Mom, Gaga, you will be missed but never forgotten. The family wishes to thank the staff of Manorhouse for their compassion and care. There will be a celebration of Sue's life in the future. Donations may be made in Sue's memory to the Shady Grove Family YMCA.