Remembering Honorary President General Dorla Dean Eaton Kemper
Pamela Wright, President General
President General Wright and Honorary President General Kemper

The National Society mourns the loss of Honorary President General Dorla Dean Eaton Kemper, who passed away on June 19, 2025 at age 95.

“I convey my sincerest condolences to Mrs. Kemper’s daughter Kara and members of the Kemper family as well as the California Daughters who loved and supported her throughout her 54 years of DAR service. Even as Honorary President General, Mrs. Kemper continued her dedication to DAR by serving on the Dillon, VanBuren and Wright administrations' Board of Consultants. One of my fondest memories of her is one that highlights her generous nature. As President General when visiting the Texas State Conference, during a small gathering, she took off her President General’s Pin and passed it around allowing each person the opportunity to hold it, inspiring me to do the same during my state visits. She will be dearly missed by the many lives she touched.”

- President General Pamela Wright

DAR Service Began in 1971

Dorla Dean Eaton Kemper, who served as the 37th President General of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) from 1995 to 1998, left a legacy of visionary leadership, modernization, and heartfelt patriotism. A proud member of the Gold Trail Chapter in California, Mrs. Kemper’s DAR service began in 1971 and spanned decades. Prior to her national leadership, she held key positions including State Regent of California, Recording Secretary General, and Chairman of the Units Overseas Committee, during which she helped expand DAR’s international presence.

Kemper Administration

The Kemper Administration’s theme, “Our Heritage Is the Key to Our Future,” underscored her deep belief in preserving the past to inspire future generations. Her President General’s Project, “Keys to the Columns,” focused on the restoration and beautification of DAR Constitution Hall and the organization’s buildings. Her tenure was marked by notable milestones such as the establishment of the Founders’ Medals, a major technology overhaul at DAR Headquarters, and expanded outreach through a dedicated online presence and new publications highlighting underrepresented patriots.

Mrs. Kemper proudly represented NSDAR at significant national and international events commemorating the end of World War II and led heritage tours in Europe, honoring the roots of the American Revolution. During her term, she oversaw impactful initiatives such as the renovation of key spaces at Headquarters, installation of symbolic artwork and signage, and the creation of committees that broadened DAR’s service and community outreach. Her commitment to patriotism, education, and historical preservation resonated throughout her administration.

At the close of her service, Mrs. Kemper established the $2 million Heritage Fund, ensuring the Society’s strength for “endless tomorrows.” Her final words as President General reflected her forward-thinking vision: to leave DAR not only stronger for the present but empowered for the future. Her leadership embodied the true spirit of the Society—grounded in tradition, yet always reaching forward.

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