Beverly Lu Kemper

Beverly (Smith) Kemper, a devoted wife, cherished mother, beloved grandmother & great grandmother and dedicated educator, passed away peacefully at her home in the loving presence of her husband and two daughters. Born on June 26, 1936, in Salem, Oregon, Beverly's life was filled with warmth, kindness, and an enduring commitment to her family and community. Beverly was the daughter of Roy and LaVaughn Smith and grew up alongside her siblings, Janet, Carol, Robert and Richard. Her parents and siblings Robert and Janet, along with her son Charlie, preceded her in death. Her legacy, however, lives on through her surviving family: her devoted husband of 67 years, Ron Kemper, her sister Carol Ann Slocum, her brother Richard Smith, her daughters Kevin Zenchenko (Paul Zenchenko) and Kim James (Mark James), her daughter-in-law Jen Kemper, and her five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored deeply. Beverly's journey with Ron began on July 3, 1959, when they married in Salem, Oregon. Together they built a beautiful life, raising their two daughters and a son, and celebrated countless milestones during their 67 years of marriage. Her family was her greatest treasure, and her home was filled with the laughter and joy. A proud alumna of Oregon State University, Beverly graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and Health in 1958. Her passion for teaching began at Marshfield High School, where she inspired students from 1958 until 1964. In 1965, Beverly joined Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) as a respected teacher and later became the director of the Health and Physical Education Department, retiring in June 1991. Her dedication to education and her students left an indelible mark on countless lives. Beverly was a woman of many interests and talents. She enjoyed the serene beauty of fishing and hunting in her younger years and later found joy in living up Coos River, traveling and tending to her flowers in her yard. Known for her beautiful smile and remarkable work ethic, Beverly was a fabulous teacher and advisor. She was known for her organization and had reminder notes posted most everywhere. An active member of the Oregon State University Alumni Association and a committed participant in the Zonta organization, Beverly's contributions extended beyond her professional life. Her genuine kindness and organizational skills were admired by all who knew her. In accordance with her wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held to honor Beverly's life. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Inland Point and Hospice for their exceptional care during Beverly's final days. Beverly Kemper's life was a testament to love, dedication, and a true passion for nurturing the lives of others. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.