Herrin- Thomas J. Kern, Sr., age 66, of Herrin, passed away at 4:01pm on Wednesday, August 3, 2016 at his home in Herrin.
Thomas was born on October 17, 1949 in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, the son of Joseph and Mary (Olejar) Kern. He married Cynthia Greenwood in Cambria on September 12, 1990.
Thomas was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He was a long-time foreman/supervisor working at many coal mines in the Southern Illinois area. Mr. Kern attended the West City First Baptist Church in Benton. He was a Christian, waiting patiently for the return of our Lord Jesus. He died in the hope that those who do not know Him will come to saving grace. He will be dearly missed by his friends and family for his sense of humor, his laughter and stories, and his unique expressions and gestures. He passed in peace and quiet, leaving this world with only happy memories and love.
Survivors include his loving wife- Cynthia Kern of Herrin
Five children- Diana Gilstrap of Kansas City, MO
Thomas J. Kern, Jr. of Kansas City, MO
Ben and Erin Kern of Kansas City, MO
Caleb and Keesha Kern of Benton
Michael Kern of Herrin
Eleven Grandchildren- Cameron, Ethan, Joshua, Jordan, and Ricki Gilstrap
Casey, Karma, Samantha, Ryan, Tyler, and Mason Kern
Three brothers- Ed Kern of DuQuoin
Bernie and Michelle Kern of DuQuoin
David and Doris Kern of DuQuoin
Two sisters- Maryann and Wayne Ball of Cincinnati, Ohio
Rose Leza of Temple, TX
Several nieces and nephews
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother- Joseph Kern.
Memorial services will be held at 5pm on Saturday, August 13, 2016 at West City First Baptist Church in Benton with Pastor Bert Mitchell officiating. A time of visitation will be held from 4-5pm on Saturday, August 13, 2016 at the church.
Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin is assisting the family with final arrangements.
For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home; 201 S. 13th Street; Herrin, IL 62948. For more information, or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com