Dorothy Louise Kempf

Dorothy Kempf, 96, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 16, 2023, at the Atria Senior Living in Tinton Falls, NJ. Dorothy was the devoted matriarch of the McKernan family. Dottie’s spirit was magnetic and infectious. Her love of life and people endeared her to all who met her. The force of life and love within her was known to be so strong, complete strangers would often approach her for conversation, a photo, or to offer up a beverage!

Dorothy was born in Perth Amboy to Adelbert and Jessie (Gillies) Gillen. She lived in Butler where she raised her nine children and retired in Toms River.

Dorothy’s interest and talent in fashion design led her to study at the Traphagen School of Fashion in New York City. Her passion and creativity continued throughout her life as she designed and created clothing for herself, family, and friends. Dorothy worked for many years as a recreational therapist, sharing her creativity and joy of life with the seniors in her care. In retirement, she enjoyed making porcelain dolls and tending to her flower gardens.

Dorothy is survived by her children, John, Martin (Rita), Michael (Maria), Joseph, Patrick (Cindy), Mary, Stephen (Maree), Teresa (David), Timothy McKernan, and her stepsons; Steve (Danielle), Bill (Eileen), and John (Joanne) Kempf. She is also survived by her brother Albert (Ann) Gillen, sisters-in-law, Rose Lembo and Catherine Kitchell, nieces and nephews, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, Adelbert and Jessie, her husbands, John Francis McKernan, Leo Kinch and Stephan Kempf, and her siblings Alberta, Helen, Raymond, Merle, and Carol.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 23, 2023, from 3-7 pm at Morrison Etheridge Funeral Home, 86 Bartholdi Ave. Butler, NJ. Funeral services are scheduled for Monday, April 24, 2023, at 10:00 am at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 65 Bartholdi Ave. Butler, NJ.