Barbara Ann Kemberling

Barbara Ann Kemberling, 74, Lawrence, passed away March 23, 2019 at home with her loving daughter’s by her side. Barbara was born in Logansport, IN to Cedric and Edna (Lottman) Shields on October 19, 1944. They moved to Los Angeles, CA where Barbara attended David Starr Jordan High and Long Beach City College.

In 1980 she moved to Eudora, KS with her husband and two daughters. She enjoyed working with the faculty and students at Nottingham Elementary. She later earned a Bachelor’s of Business from Baker University, and was proud to be the first person in her family to receive a college degree. Barbara then worked in the construction and real estate industries in Lawrence, KS. She worked selflessly for both her employers and the customers she served, and was a highly regarded property manager.

She was a lover of arts and regularly attended theater performances in both Lawrence and Kansas City, and was a longtime volunteer at the Lied Center. She loved supporting local artists and their works. She was always there for anyone who asked for her assistance; as well as the more than twenty homeless cats she cared for over her lifetime.

She was a generous, kind and loving friend and mother. She is survived by her two daughters, Charmaine Kemberling and Shawn Kelley, grandsons Croix and Jax Kelley as well as cousins, nephews and nieces.

The picture was taken by her brother-in-law, James Mercer. It embodies the Beauty of her Spirit, her love of the ocean and inspired this quote: “We are tied to the Ocean. And when we go back to the Sea, whether it is to sail or to watch we are going back to where we came.” John F Kennedy. The best memorial is to live and love as much and as often as possible. Go out into your community and find a need and lovingly fill it. Barbara certainly did! If you feel the urge to contribute, please consider the Lawrence Humane Society. Memorial contributions may be made in her name and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W 13th St, Lawrence, KS 66044.

She will be missed and lovingly remembered by many.