Obituary

Julianne kemp, beloved by many friends and family, passed away at her home on january 17, 2018, at the age of 87. Born february 5, 1930, “julie” was the youngest of three daughters born to thomas henry kemp and anne lorraine wood kemp. While she kept her older sisters lesley and allison on their toes, it was julie who studied at the american school of ballet in new york city following her graduation from charleston high school, and who later danced in europe. She was one of the original founding members of the charleston ballet, and was the female lead dancer and prima ballerina for many years. In addition, she was assistant director to mr. Van damme, and by 1979 had appeared in, or choreographed, more than 80 ballets and performances. In 1946, julie began working for the charleston daily mail, securing her full-time position in 1948. She held many responsibilities at the daily mail for over 54 years, including the role of lifestyles editor. Her sense of humor was legendary in all facets of her life, but her columns highlighting relatives and others kept us all laughing! She retired from the newspaper in 2002, after making many lifelong friendships.

Julie was a longtime active member of st. John’s episcopal church. She was preceded in death by her parents, “harry” and anne; her sister, lesley slaughter, and brother-in-law jack; her sister, allison perkins; and a niece and nephew, cindy butcher and dave slaughter, who left us “way too early in their lives.”

our dear aunt julie, known to many as our dear “great” aunt julie, is survived across the u.S. By many of her “far-flung family” (as both harry and jack used to say), including nieces, nephews, great – nieces and great – nephews … And her two beloved dogs, kasey and corky, all of whom will miss her tremendously.

She was an encourager, a “straight-shooter” and a social, fun-loving, and intelligent person who loved the beach, all things french, her friends, family and her dogs. She was one of a kind, and an inspiration to many. She has always served as a strong role model to young people, especially for young girls and women, in her life and career.

All are warmly invited to attend a memorial service celebrating her life at st. John’s episcopal church, 1105 quarrier street, charleston, wv 25301 at 2 p.M. On saturday, february 24. A private family service will be held at 11 a.M. At the spring hill cemetery in huntington prior to the memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial gift may be sent to the charleston ballet, the kanawha charleston humane society or st. John’s episcopal church.