Mary M. (Blayz) Kemp, 92, of Concord, passed away peacefully at home on February 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Mary Kemp lived a life of grace, kindness, and warmth. Known for her elegance and generous spirit, she made everyone feel welcome and valued. She was deeply loved by the late Robert Kemp, her husband of 61 years. A devoted mother, Mary is forever cherished by her five daughters: Carolyn Kemp and husband Eric Broege, Margaret Carlson and husband Mike Zeitouny, Elizabeth Wiza, Amy Sweeney and husband Joseph, and Katherine Flood and husband Ryan. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Henry Broege, Charles and Clayton Carlson, Madeline, John, and Evelyn Sweeney, Nicholas Wiza, and William and Sarah Flood. Mary is also survived by her younger brother, Charles Blayz. She is reunited with her late grandson, Jack Wiza, and her late brother, Robert “Hap” Blayz.
Born on October 4, 1932, in Swanton, Ohio, to Cyril and Margaret (Hallett) Blayz, Mary spent several formative years with her beloved grandmother, Louise Hallett, who instilled in her a deep and abiding Catholic faith. She graduated from Swanton High School in 1951, then pursued her passion for nursing at St. Vincent School of Nursing, earning her diploma in 1954. In 1957, she completed her bachelor of science in nursing at St. Louis University and became a clinical instructor in medical-surgical nursing at St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Milwaukee. It was in Milwaukee that Mary met Bob Kemp on a blind date — a chance meeting that led to a lifetime of love and partnership from Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, to Concord and beyond.
Mary embraced every chapter of her life with dedication and enthusiasm. In addition to managing a bustling household, she was an active and respected community leader, often chosen to serve in leadership roles for arts, historical, and health care organizations. In Milwaukee, she was a valued member of the Friends of the Visiting Nurse Association and served on the boards of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, the Women’s League, and St. Monica’s School Committee, and as a Girl Scouts leader and Catholic education teacher. Wherever there was a need — for a volunteer, a casserole, or a compassionate ear — Mary was there.
In 1974, Bob’s career led the family to Boston, and Mary orchestrated a seamless cross-country move to Concord. Just as she was preparing to return to nursing, life surprised her with the joyful news of a fifth daughter. From college applications to middle school dances and diaper changes, Mary embraced the chaos of a full house. She quickly found lifelong friends through the Newcomers Club and her neighborhood, forming a strong community that enriched her life and the lives of her family.
Her commitment to service continued in Concord, where she dedicated herself to the Auxiliary of Emerson Hospital, serving as its president from 1995 to 1997 and later as a member of the Board of Trustees. She especially loved overseeing the auxiliary’s Christmas Shop at the Concord Armory, often enlisting her daughters and friends to lend a hand.
Mary also contributed to the Concord Pops, the Garden Club of Concord, Orchard House, and the Milldames, where she formed some of her dearest friendships. Her legacy lives on in these organizations, and she was pleased to help plan the Milldames’ contribution to the upcoming 250th anniversary celebration of the American Revolution, securing a key speaker for an event scheduled for March 2025.
A gracious host, Mary took great joy in planning and hosting luncheons, teas, and family gatherings. Her warmth and hospitality were legendary, and she was happiest when her home was filled with laughter and conversation.
Mary and Bob were dedicated supporters of Marquette University, Bob’s alma mater, establishing a scholarship for business students. She also served on the Marquette University Women’s Council and enjoyed helping educate future generations.
Though her calendar was always full, Mary treasured her “downtime” at the family’s summer home in Chatham, cheering on her grandchildren at their sports games, concerts, and theater performances, reading, playing piano, and winter visits to Florida to reconnect with longtime friends. In an age of fleeting messages, Mary thoughtfully composed personal, handwritten cards and thank-you notes that carried a warmth beyond words.
Her faith was the guiding light of her life, shaping her values and inspiring her every endeavor. She believed deeply in family, friendship, education, charity, and the importance of nurturing one’s gifts. Mary’s legacy is one of unwavering integrity, caring, generosity, and grace.
Family and friends will gather for visiting hours from 12:30 to 3 p.m., Sunday, February 9, at Dee Funeral Home, 27 Bedford Street. Mary’s funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, February 10, at Holy Family Parish, 12 Monument Square. Burial will follow in St. Bernard’s Cemetery, Concord.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Dana Farber Cancer Institute or Emerson Health Foundation, honoring Mary’s lifelong spirituality and service.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord. To share a memory or to offer a condolence on Mary’s tribute page, visit DeeFuneralHome.com.
