Shirley Kemp

Shirley Jeanette McHan Kemp, 84, of Orange, TX passed away peacefully in her home Sunday morning, April 15, 2018, with family at her side. She was born October 29, 1933 in Weir, MS to Vivian Lowe McHan and James Arnold McHan. In 1951 she married her high school sweetheart, Billy Kemp. Starting a family and seeking new opportunities, the couple and their first son soon moved to Orange. They eventually had two more sons, and while Shirley cherished her role as a devoted and loving wife and mom, as the kids got older she decided to work toward a degree from Lamar University in Beaumont, TX. After graduating, she began her teaching career in Deweyville, TX and then continued at Little Cypress Mauriceville in Orange. She loved her students and teaching, and was gratified years afterwards when former students would greet her in public with a big smile and hug. Once all their children were grown, the couple was fortunate to be able to retire early. They traveled the U.S. and Canada extensively in their RV, and spent much time at their property on Sam Rayburn Reservoir with friends and family. They also enjoyed several international trips, often renting RVs abroad to fully explore their foreign destinations. They both made several life-long friends in the Ackerman, MS and Orange areas and enjoyed staying in touch with them over the years. Shirley was predeceased by her parents and husband. She is survived by her sons, Gary and wife Alice, Tracy and wife Mary, and Terry, five grandsons and seven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her two loving sisters, Ann Perry of Burnet, TX and Sue Fisette of Bridge City, TX. The family would like to acknowledge Southeast Texas Hospice of Orange for their extraordinary staff and compassionate care for Shirley, and for their emotional support for family members. Special thanks to Yvette Cotton who aided the family with gentle care and soothing companionship for Shirley over the last several months. As Shirley desired, remembrances will be private following her cremation. In lieu of flowers, donations to Southeast Texas Hospice of Orange would help other families be fortunate to receive the same level of care in their time of need.