Teri Ann Kemp

Teri Ann Kerill O'Dwyer Kemp, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on April 4, 2024, at Lake Monticello, Virginia, at her home. She was born on August 9, 1953, in Washington D.C.

Teri is survived by her devoted husband, James "Jim" Kemp, her loving sons Brian O'Dwyer, his wife Janice, and their daughters Fiona and Regan, and Steven O'Dwyer, his wife Jessie, and their son Richie. She is also survived by her brother Harry Kerill, his wife Susie, and their family; her sister Lynn Brannan and family; and her sister Lisa McDonald and family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Robin Kerill, her first husband Kendall "Mickey" O'Dwyer, as well as her brothers Lee Kerill and Stan Kerill.

Teri spent her formative years in Washington D.C. as the fourth of six children born to Harry and Robin Kerill. As a D.C. native, she held a deep-rooted love for the Washington Redskins and remained a passionate fan throughout her life. After moving to Virginia as a young woman, she established her life there. Teri married her first husband, Mickey, and together they had two sons, Brian and Steven. Mickey's passing due to cancer in 1986 left a profound impact, but Teri found love again with Jim the following year, who became her devoted life partner and father to her sons. A bookkeeper by trade, Teri spent her early career with Arlington County, followed by working for her brother Harry for a number of years, before finishing her career spending over 25 years with Construction Applicators of Manassas, VA, whom she was with until she retired in 2019.

In 1996, Teri and Jim built a dream home together in South Riding, VA, bringing together the full family under one roof, and Teri and Jim were married the following year. They cherished their time in northern Virginia, witnessing the sons' graduation from their respective universities, another of Teri's life-long goals. Later, they discovered a new love for Lake Monticello, Virginia, where they moved in 2008 and then built their "forever home" in 2011, fully immersing themselves in the lakeside community. Teri and Jim embraced the lake life, forming lasting friendships and creating treasured memories while hosting their children and grandchildren at every opportunity.

Teri will be fondly remembered for her boundless love for her family and community, touching the lives of all who knew her with her kindness and compassion. She had a zest for life, evident in her passion for cooking delicious meals. Her famous broccoli casserole graced every holiday table, alongside her cherished Christmas Rum cakes, which she joyfully shared with her family, friends, and members of the community each holiday season. Another great love of Teri's was traveling, whether it was enjoying a simple picnic at Skyline Drive or savoring hot dogs at the Roanoke Weiner Stand or embarking on adventures to new and exotic destinations around the globe with Jim by her side. One of the most memorable moments was in the summer of 2002 when she organized her dream family vacation to the beautiful islands of Hawaii, a trip that remains unmatched in our hearts and memories.

A visitation will be held on April 12, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Thacker Brothers Lake Monticello Funeral Home, followed by an informal service at 2:00 PM. There will be a casual reception to follow at the Lake Monticello Clubhouse.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Teri's memory to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, a charity that held a special place in her heart. You can donate here: https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html

For further inquiries please contact Teri's son, Brian O'Dwyer, at odwyerbp@gmail.com.

Teri's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Family and friends may share memories at www.thackerbrothers.com.

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