Joan Kemp

Joan Klecan Kemp passed away on September 9, 2026. She was born in 1934 in Elizabeth, New Jersey and lived in Jacksonville for the last 60 years.

She graduated from Georgia State College for Women, received her master’s degree in Child Development from the University of Tennessee and was certified in Emotional Disturbance and Administration from the University of North Florida.

Joan was married to Ted Kemp from 1956-1971, and they lived in Kentucky, Ohio, Germany, and New York.

She developed the Kindergarten and Pre-kindergarten programs at Jacksonville Country Day School. She worked for Duval County School Board for 29 years, was coordinator of FDLRS, a program of the Exceptional Education department, served as President of the Council for Exceptional Children and retired after teaching special needs children at Mayport Elementary School for 15 years. She was the recipient of the Viola Wilson Award for outstanding dedication to the education of exceptional children.

Joan lived a life dedicated to community service and her family. As an Elder at Palms Presbyterian Church, she chaired numerous committees and co-founded the Palms Child Care Center, serving on its board for many years. Her commitment to helping others also extended to the Mayo Clinic, where she volunteered for nearly two decades. In her free time, Joan enjoyed photography and gardening—even earning a "Garden of the Month" award in her community. She found joy in performing quiet, unrecognized acts of kindness for those around her. More than anything in life, though, she cherished and was incredibly proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include her children and their spouses: Barbara (Ken) Kleban of Fairfield, CT, and Brendan (Robin) Kemp of St. Augustine, FL; her grandchildren, Bailey, Evan, Jillian, Noah, Eliza, Ava, and Olivia; three great-grandchildren; her brother, Warren Klecan; and nieces Lindsey and Lesley Klecan and their families. She was especially grateful to her caregivers, especially Marcia who provided such love and comfort during the last few years of her life.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on October 5th, 2026, at Palms Presbyterian Church. In honor of Joan, please feel free to wear happy colors, if you so choose.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to either Palms Child Care Center or Palms Presbyterian Church, both at 3410 South 3rd Street, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250.