Josie Kerns

Jo Ellen “Josie” Kerns, 64, of Ripley passed away Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at her home.

Josie was born May 19, 1962 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a daughter of the late Charles and Rosalie (Taylor) Elliott. Josie loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren who were the apple of her eye. She also enjoyed riding motorcycles and taking side by side rides.

Josie is survived by her loving husband of 22 years; Jerry Kerns; siblings Cheryl Stephenson, Charles Elliott and Susan Elliott; stepchildren Jerry Kerns II and Terri Kerns; grandchildren Austin Kerns, Kody Kerns and Braden Board and great-grandchildren Olivia Kerns, Gunnar Kerns and Ryker Kerns.

In addition to her parents, Josie was preceded in death by her brother, Patrick Elliott.

Services to celebrate Josie’s life will be held 8 p.m. Friday, September 25, 2026 at Waybright Funeral Home, Ripley. Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. until the time of the service. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Paula Pernell-Cummings and Terri Board for the care they showed to Josie in her final days. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Josie’s memory to a local food pantry or an organization that helps fight hunger. Online memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.waybrightfuneralhome.com