Obituary for Mary Lillian Kempf Sullivan

November 19, 1943 – June 29, 2025

Mary Lillian Kempf Sullivan passed away on June 29, 2025, after several years of health challenges.

She was born on November 19, 1943, in Laurelton, New York, to Mary Sofia and John Francis Kempf. Mary was the first in her family to graduate from college, earning her degree as a Registered Nurse. She dedicated her career to nursing and worked in various medical settings.

Mary raised her two daughters, MaryEllen Gibson and Jennifer Galbraith, as a single parent. When her daughters were teenagers, she moved the family from New York to California to begin a new chapter. Mary especially enjoyed spending time at Disneyland and held an annual pass for more than 20 years.

She supported both of her daughters in attending and graduating from California State University, Long Beach.

Mary is survived by her daughters, MaryEllen Gibson (Steve) and Jennifer Galbraith (Alan); her sister, Kathleen Heter of Middletown, New York; and her seven grandchildren: Emma Gibson, AnnaKate Gibson, MaryJane Galbraith, SeanPatrick Galbraith, Ryan Galbraith, Logan Galbraith, and Brittan Galbraith. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, John Kempf.

The immediate family will hold a small private service. In lieu of flowers, please consider arranging for a Mass to be celebrated in her memory at your local Catholic parish.

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