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Liberty Today
By the People, for the People
Longtime Liberty Resident Sharon Ann Shrader Kemper Passes Away at 85
Kemper was a trailblazer in chemical manufacturing and dedicated community volunteer
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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Sharon Ann Shrader Kemper, a proud Liberty, Texas native and longtime resident, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026 at the age of 85. Kemper had a distinguished career in chemical manufacturing, working for 37 years at Quaker Oats, Rohm & Haas, and Dow, often in roles traditionally held by men. She was also deeply involved in her local community, volunteering with numerous organizations and serving in leadership roles at her church, Saint Stephen's Episcopal.
Why it matters
Kemper's life story exemplifies the changing role of women in the workforce and the lasting impact that dedicated community members can have on a local area. Her perseverance and pioneering spirit in the male-dominated field of chemical manufacturing paved the way for other women, while her tireless volunteer work strengthened the fabric of Liberty, Texas.
The details
Kemper began her working career at age 25, using the typing skills she learned in high school to support herself and her family. She eventually landed a job at Quaker Oats, where she applied for and was hired into a production role - a rare position for a woman at the time. Kemper embraced the challenge, earning the nickname 'Tiger' from her coworkers. After Quaker Oats closed, she continued her career in chemical manufacturing, working for 30 years at Rohm & Haas and an additional 5 years after the company was acquired by Dow, retiring at age 73.
- Kemper was born on June 20, 1940 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
- She passed away on February 16, 2026 in Fulshear, Texas.
- Kemper graduated from Liberty High School, where she was honored as FFA Sweetheart and served on the first Panther Drill Team.
- She began her working career at age 25, eventually landing a job at Quaker Oats.
- Kemper worked in chemical manufacturing for 37 years, retiring at age 73.
The players
Sharon Ann Shrader Kemper
A proud Liberty, Texas native who had a distinguished career in chemical manufacturing and was deeply involved in her local community as a volunteer.
M.E. 'Hank' Shrader
Kemper's father.
Alma King Shrader
Kemper's mother.
M.E. 'Buddy' Shrader, Jr.
Kemper's brother.
Stacy Carson
Kemper's beloved daughter.
What’s next
Kemper's funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026 at Saint Stephen's Episcopal Church in Liberty. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Divine Integrity, Grace Initiative Meals on Wheels, or Friends of the Library.
The takeaway
Sharon Ann Shrader Kemper's life exemplified the power of perseverance, community service, and leaving a lasting positive impact. Her story serves as an inspiration for women breaking barriers in the workforce and the difference that dedicated volunteers can make in their local areas.


