On October 14, 2021, Texas lost one of its angels when Patti Kemp Whelan went to be with the Lord.
Patti was the daughter of WWII veteran, Curtis Kemp, and school bus driver, Imogene Kemp. She was born and raised in the towns of Glen Cove (Coleman) and San Saba, Texas. Patti grew into a feisty tomboy with a sharp wit and a love of animals. Her infectious personality won over her neighbors, classmates, and teachers, many of whom remained lifelong friends.
After high school, Patti moved to Denton, Texas, and had two children. As a single mother, Patti obtained her certificate from the University of North Texas and began teaching in Denton. She taught there for over 10 years until she met the love of her life, Patrick Whelan. They married in the year 2010 and moved to north Fort Worth. There, she taught Gifted and Talented students at Lake Worth ISD until the last months of her life.
The last four years of Patti's life were spent battling ovarian cancer. Patti approached this time in true Kemp fashion. Her bravery, grit, and sense of humor were inspirational to all who knew her. She taught throughout her treatments and lived her life to the fullest. Her shining spirit will never fade and tales of her life will always be told by those who knew her. Here is the link to her “Caring Bridge” journal: <https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/pattiwhelan/journal>.
Patti was preceded in death by her parents, Curtis and Imogene Kemp.
She is survived by her husband, Patrick Whelan; children, Alyssa Phillips and John Vance; three grandchildren; and her brother, Gary Kemp, of Winters, Texas.
Patti’s ashes will be interred near her parents at the Glen Cove Cemetery (Coleman, Texas) in a private affair at a date to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Organization for Autism Research: <https://researchautism.org>.
Please wear a mask for Patti if attending the service.