Pat was born in Springfield, September 23, 1942 the daughter of Calvin Dale and Donna Ruth (Harris) Smith. Her parents, her brother, Fred Smith and her sister-in-law Nancy Smith preceded her in death.
Pat was a graduate of St. John’s School of Nursing where she earned her registered nurse certificate. She began her career as a surgical nurse at St. John’s Hospital. Pat served alongside her colleagues specializing in cardiac surgery. She served her entire career and retired from there. Pat would return to St. John’s after her retirement part time serving with the surgical care team and retire for a second time after several more years of service. Pat was a longtime member of West Side Christian Church.
Pat married George “Bob” Kemp in Springfield, August 11, 1988 and he survives. She is also survived by her step-children; Timothy W. Kemp, Troy (Becky Jo) Kemp both of Chatham, IL and Krystal Siddens, there are five grandchildren; Brook Burns, Cara, Jamie (Amanda Keaty) Kemp, of Janesville, WI, Devin Kemp of Berlin Germany, and Brock (Afton) Kemp of Madison, WI. She has four great grandchildren. Also surviving are her brother, Donald Smith of Franklin, KY, a sister-in-law, Mary Ann Smith of Auburn, IL and several nieces and nephews including Erica Smith of Springfield and Grant Smith of Ironwood, MI
The Kemp family will greet family and friends on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL 62711 from 9:30 am until the time of a funeral service at 11:00 am. Pastor Mike Harney will officiate. Burial will follow in Chatham Memorial Cemetery, Chatham, IL.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the Prairie Heart Institute at St. John’s Hospital 619 E. Mason St. Springfield, IL 62769.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West 217-544-5424
