Martha Helen Kemp

Martha (Marty) Helen Kemp, daughter of Leo (Scottie) and Helen (Kitty) Kemp, sister of Kathy (Kemp) Haines, passed away Sunday, March 17th, 2019 at her residence in Smyrna, GA. 

Marty, a Breast Cancer Survivor, courageously lived for many years with the unique challenge of reduced cognition resulting from multiple genetic neurological conditions. Marty was born September 22, 1951 in Winfield, KS where she lived until completing her Undergraduate Studies in Child Development at Kansas State University. A lifelong student, Marty’s education included multiple Graduate Degrees in Special Education with emphasis in teaching those with Visual Impairments, as well as training in Orientation and Mobility for the blind.  Her career led her from Kansas to Austin, TX,;Greeley, CO; Phoenix, AZ; New York City, NY; and ultimately, Bridgeport, CT.

Marty spent her life committed to helping people with unique physical challenges, but she was also known to have a passion for creative expression.  A lifelong member of the Catholic church, Marty often sang for her parish choir. She loved drama and as an adult even pursued formal training in educational Theatre at NYU. Her family members across the country would look forward to receiving her handmade Christmas ornaments every year. She was also proficient at  many musical instruments, including guitar and piano. She also volunteered for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Girl Scouts of America for many years.

Marty is survived by her niece Felice Jerrells (husband Aaron), Nephew Scott Dougherty,  grandniece Ania Jerrells and grandnephew Aaron Jerrells all of Atlanta, GA.

The Funeral Mass will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle Church - 4300 King Springs Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30082 on Friday, March 22nd at 2:00pm. She will be laid to rest permanently with her sister and parents in Winfield, KS at St. Mary's Cemetery on Friday, March 29, 2019 at 12pm. Arrangements are in care of Shelley Family Funeral Home of Winfield.

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