TERRY “RUSSELL” KERNS

Terry Russell Kerns, 59, of Joplin, formerly of Republic passed away on Dec. 7, 2023, with his family by his side. He was born on April 9, 1964, in Springfield to Terry and Jeanette (Clarkson) Kerns, one of four children in the home.
He graduated from Republic High School with the class of 1982. After graduation, He began working in the office for BFI Refuse and spent many years with the company. He then took a front desk position at Drury Inn in Joplin where he remained until his health began to decline.
He is survived by his life partner Glen Riggs; his mother;  his sister, Valarie Smith of Republic; niece Maria Rister (Randy) of Chaffee; as well as numerous friends.
He was preceded in death by his father; maternal grandmother, Loretta Malicoat; brother, Paul Edward Kerns; sister, Megan Hamilton; and his best four-legged buddy, Calista.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to American Kidney Fund at www.kidneyfund.org or 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD. 20852.
A memorial visitation is scheduled from 10-11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023,  with a celebration of life to follow at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Johns Chapel Cemetery in Ash Grove.