Surrounded by loved ones chanting and singing, Brother Shankara, resident minister of the Vedanta Center of Atlanta, passed away on March 22, 2024. 

Shankara was born on May 19, 1942, in Fresno, California, to Clifton W. Kemper and Lora Kemper. The the eldest of five children, he embarked on a transformative spiritual journey after meeting Swami Prabhavananda in 1973. Formerly Gary W. Kemper, he adopted the name Shankara and dedicated more than 25 years to the Vedanta Society's board. He was also instrumental in establishing numerous centers around the world.

Following the passing of his beloved wife, Marjorie, in 2010, Shankara received Brahmacharya vows and stepped into the role of resident minister at the Vedanta Center of Atlanta. He revitalized the center by offering countless talks and classes and deeply engaging in interfaith dialogue.

Brother Shankara is survived by his son, Benjamin Kemper, and a community of devotees who revered him for his deep compassion, wisdom and unwavering commitment to spiritual education. His legacy is marked by the love and enlightenment he spread through his teachings and personal interactions.

A memorial service that included a program of brief talks and songs was held on March 26, 2024, at A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home in Decatur and concluded with his cremation.