Gail G. Kemp

She was born in Queens on Aug. 22, 1936, the daughter of Arthur and Lillian (Ahearn) Gilmore. Much of Gail’s childhood was spent in Brooklyn before the family moved north and eventually settled in Plattsburgh.

Gail graduated from St. John’s Academy in 1954 and then attended the State University of New York College at Plattsburgh, where she was active in her sorority. She earned a bachelor of science in home economics education in 1958 and a master of science in education in 1966.

Before teaching third and fourth grades at the Peru Central School District, Gail briefly taught at the Queensbury School, Glens Falls. Before her retirement, Gail became a computer specialist who helped teachers incorporate technology into their classrooms.

After retiring, Gail indulged in two of her lifelong passions: travel and photography. Many of her trips were photographic workshops that inspired her art. Not only did she exhibit her works and enter competitions throughout the North Country, she established Gail Kemp Photographs, through which she sold framed photographs and notecards.

Family was always important to Gail. She treasured the time spent with her granddaughters, attending their performances and taking them on travel adventures. She enjoyed the opportunities to catch up with her nieces and nephews and learn about their activities as they grew and expanded their families.

Gail supported a variety of local and national organizations. She served for many years as an alternate on the Town of Plattsburgh Zoning Board of Appeals.

Survivors include her son Terrance (Lynne) Kemp and grandchildren Rachel Kemp and Jessica Kemp. She is also survived by her cousin Edward (Judy) Ahearn and many nieces and nephews. Gail was predeceased by her parents, Arthur and Lillian Gilmore; her brother, Michael (Margie) Gilmore; and her ex-husband, Frank Kemp.

Gail’s family is grateful to those who provided support during her long illness, including long-time friends, home caregivers, the staff of Pine Harbour Memory Care and Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, and Rudy.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Oct. 16, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the R.W. Walker Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church. Burial will follow in Gilliland Cemetery.

Those wishing to remember Gail are encouraged to make donations to a nature, arts, historic or civic organization of their choice. To share a memory of condolence with the family, please visit www.rwwalkerfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court St., Plattsburgh.