Marilee Conrad Kemsley, 72, went home on January 23, 2026, surrounded by love. She is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, Michael; their daughter, Mae Lin Kemsley Kirn, and her husband, Spencer; and her grandson, Graham.
Marilee also had many siblings: Sally Conrad Clinard; Christine Conrad; Judith Conrad; Katy Conrad Mills and her spouse, Danny Mills; Bill Conrad and his wife, Kathy; Pete Conrad and his wife, Beth; and her sister-in-law, Carol Conrad; her special longtime friend, Tess Mcredmond; and many more nieces and nephews.
Marilee was predeceased by her parents, Len and Dale (Hart) Conrad, and brothers Steve Conrad, Mike Conrad and Joe Conrad.
Marilee was born in Wisconsin and grew up in Nashville, Tenn. She graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. When she graduated from U.T., she moved to San Francisco in the ’80s, where she met her husband, Michael. Through the ups and downs of life, they moved to Vermont in the early ’90s, where she wrote a novel and worked as a writer and historian. She loved nature, especially trees. Marilee and Michael renovated and lived on an old farm where she frequently wrote and raised their daughter, Mae. Later, they built a house in Grand Isle on Lake Champlain, where she enjoyed retirement.
It’s said she had a bit of a stubborn streak, which only a select few witnessed. She loved adventure and discovery. She was courageous, intelligent and beautiful to the very end. She is already greatly missed by her family and all who had the honor of knowing her.
A celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date.
Please share memories, stories and photos of Marilee at champlaincremation.com.
This article appears in February 11 • 2026.
A Note of Gratitude
In the midst of grief, some things are unintentionally left unsaid. Our family would like to express our deep gratitude to the many people who showed up for Lee with kindness, patience, and care.
We wish to especially thank the compassionate staff at McClure Miller Respite House, as well as the many physicians, case managers, nurses, and medical staff at UVM Medical Center, whose professionalism and humanity carried Lee and our family through an unimaginably difficult time.
We are deeply appreciative of all who offered support—through visits, messages, advocacy, and quiet presence. Your care was felt and will not be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the McClure Miller Respite House (Hospice House) in Lee’s memory.
With sincere appreciation,
Michael and family