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Jerome Kersey
1962 - 2015
Jerome Kersey
1962 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1962
DIED
2015
Jerome Kersey Obituary
The cause of death wasn't immediately known.
A team ambassador, Kersey appeared Tuesday with fellow former Blazers Terry Porter and Brian Grant at a Portland high school in celebration of African American History Month.
"Today we lost an incredible person and one of the most beloved players to ever wear a Trail Blazers uniform," Blazers owner Paul Allen said in a statement. "My thoughts and condolences are with the Kersey family. He will be missed by all of us. It's a terrible loss."
Kersey averaged 10.3 points and 5.5 rebounds in 17 seasons in the NBA with Portland, Golden State, the Los Angeles Lakers, Seattle, San Antonio and Milwaukee. He helped the Blazers reach the NBA Finals in 1990 and 1992, playing alongside Porter, Clyde Drexl er, Kevin Duckworth and Buck Williams.
"He was the greatest guy, the nicest friend, teammate and brother. He was loved by everyone. We will all miss him. He just cared so much," Drexler told Comcast SportsNet Northwest. "This is unbelievable."
Kersey had his best season in 1987-88, averaging 19.2 points and 8.3 rebounds. Kersey played in 1,153 regular-season games, also averaging 1.9 assists and 1.2 steals.
The former Longwood University star ranks second on Portland's career games list with 831, third in minutes played at 21,400, second in rebounds with 5,078, third steals with 1,059, and fifth in points with 10,067.
At 6-foot-7 and 215 pounds, "No Mercy" Kersey had a broad smile and a warm manner that made him a fan favorite.
Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard posted to Twitter: "Spoke to him regularly about life and the ups and downs of a NBA season. Gone too soon, much love!" Others who posted their condolences included Kobe Bryant and Vince Carter.
Kersey retired from basketball in 2001. He was an assistant coach with Milwaukee in 2004-05 under Porter. In addition to serving as a team ambassador, he appeared on Blazers' broadcasts for Comcast SportsNet Northwest.
At Longwood, a Division II school in Farmville, Virginia, Kersey averaged 17 points and 11.3. He was a second-round pick by the Blazers in the 1984 draft.
"The news is so sudden, and we're sure more details will be forthcoming," Blazers President Chris McGowan said. "But it is indeed a sad day for our organization, the city of Portland and the NBA. Jerome will be remembered not only for his incredible contributions on the court, but his tremendous impact in our community."
Kersey lived with wife Teri in Lake Oswego.
___
ANNE M. PETERSON, AP Sports Writer
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
153 Entries
Valenda Newell
June 29, 2016
A great loss for fans, friends and family. Sending prayers and blessings..... LOVE, PEACE and HARMONY
Michelle Perry
February 20, 2016
Can hardly believe a year has passed, Jerome is truly missed by all of PDX JK25
June 10, 2015
John 11:33 says: "When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her weeping and groaning, he groaned within himself and became troubled." Jesus expressed tears when his friend Lazarus died, he knows how it feels to lose a dead loved one and he understands what you and your family are experiencing. May this bring you and your family comfort in this time of need. cjp (fla.)
jolene abbott
May 15, 2015
U r truley missed by all..we love u..and u family..rest in peace..
How you can show support
March 11, 2015
Rest in peace big guy, may god bless your soul.
Mariah Laitinen
March 3, 2015
It is pretty amazing and impressive when a person can affect so many people without ever meeting them. Jerome Kersey was one of these people. He showed how God can be so gracious just by how he lived his life. Yes, God's timing is definitely not always the way we would have it or wish it. It is indeed God's. The Kersey family is certainly in my prayers and in thousands of others. Please take all the support you can. Mercy, Mercy. Jerome Kersey! Thank you for sharing some of your souls with us and memories of Jerome! Praying!
Mariah Laitinen
Linda
March 2, 2015
If there is basketball in heaven my mom will be a very happy person. Her all time favorite has just become an angel. Gone too soon. We miss you J.
David Strothers
March 1, 2015
Jerome was a great teammate and a better person! It was truly a blessing to share so many wonderful experiences with Jerome both off and on the basketball. Jerome was a kind, humble, and classy human being. My condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Jerome will always be the pride of Longwood University. He had a grea run! Rest in Peace Brother, Jee! We love you!
Jayne Thacker Cooley
March 1, 2015
Jerome, along with Terry, Clyde, Buck, Kevin, Cliffy, and Coach Rick, are some of the best memories of my life. I'm heartbroken. My thoughts are with his wife, kids, granddaughter, and the Blazer family! You will be missed Jerome!
xoxo Jayne Thacker Cooley
Dr. C.E. Lightfoot
March 1, 2015
My prayers are with the Kersey family during this difficult time. Scripture reminds us, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." Jerome was my classmate at Longwood University (1981-1985) and I will always remember how humble and full of life he was. February 2013, Longwood honored him in a GRAND way. My son and I appreciate the "bobble-head Kersey" doll that Jerome autographed. With all that Jerome had amassed since Longwood, he was still the same-humble person I knew during school. Knowing that life is short, it was a true blessing reminiscing with my alumni friends. Jerome, you will be missed but know that your memory lives on.
Dr. Carla E. Lightfoot
February 28, 2015
To the Kersey family,
My heart goes out to all of you'll. Jerome will be remembered by his Bluestone High School family and his immediate social system, but remember, we all loved him but God loved him more.
Earnadette Powell- Farrar (chase City Virginia)
February 28, 2015
To the Kersey Family, I send my condolences and a encouraging scripture 1.cor.10:13
BB
February 27, 2015
Losing a loved one can bring much grief. Please accept my sincere condolences. May the memories you shared with Jerome bring you comfor. I love the promise at Psalm 147:3, "He heals the broken hearted; He binds up their wounds." May it bring you comfort in the days ahead.
February 26, 2015
Our very deepest condolences are with the Kersey family at this difficult time, he will be truly missed by all, May Jehovah God continue to be with the family during their grieving :-( Sonja Starks and family!
linda cornwall
February 26, 2015
To my dear friend Jerome Kersey, my heart is broken for you, and your family. Thank you for all the fun times I was allowed to share with you and others. I was blessed to get to know you off the court on several occasions as well as on the court. I lost my father of heart attack in front of his students at the age of 52, which we shared stories, your grandma being the idol of your life, and now you're with her. I was able to speak to you last November, Your one hell of a guy with a big heart. Thank you for your talent on the court, and thank you for all the laughs off the court. You're gone too soon and it breaks my heart for all of us who lost a wonderful man. My sympathy goes out to Terri. And the girls and Jerome Grandchild and family. JK25 Please Rest in Peace- Linda Cornwall Heartbroken!
Alicia
February 26, 2015
My deepest condolences to the family, may the God of all comfort be with you always. Psalms 83:18
February 26, 2015
"May the God who gives hope fill you with all joy and peace by your trusting in him, so that you may abound in hope with power of holy spirit." Romans 15:13
February 26, 2015
My deepest condolences to the family.
May the God of unending love, comfort
and console the family during this
difficult time.
Daily may the LORD give you the strength
needed.
My sincere and heartfelt prayers are
with you.
(Psalm 34:6)
~Elizabeth, Atlanta, Ga
February 25, 2015
What a terrible loss. I'm just a fan, but
Jerome touched all. Those who knew him and
those who didn't. May he rest in peace.
Thomasine B. Drayton-Damm
Salem, Oregon
Vernon Hargrove
February 25, 2015
May God bless the Kersey family during their time of sorrow. Jerome will be missed by so many, including myself. My prayers are with you.
Michelle B
February 25, 2015
First I was a fan, then a business associate and lastly and most importantly a friend. My heart breaks for those who loved him. Sending prayers for comfort and strength to all his family. His legacy in Portland will never be forgotten.
Lori Schaffer
February 25, 2015
I'm so sorry for your loss. Praying for God's love to comfort you.
M. Louise
February 25, 2015
Sorry for the loss of Jerome Kersey. Family, friends and fans; please find comfort in knowing Almighty God cares about the pain you are feeling at this time. (1 Peter5:7) He also assures us if we draw close to him, he will draw close to us. (James 4:8)
Jeff X
February 25, 2015
Prayers to the family; he will be missed; he was a very good player and a great man; he did rep his home city-state well! He will be remembered.
Charlene Brandt
February 24, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I pray u find comfort in knowing Blazer fans loved Jerome. We loved his smile. When we go to games we would see him. Always talking to fans. He was my favorite player when he was playing. 25 will always be a special number God must have had a better plan for Jerome. My heart goes out to your children it's very hard on them. Loosing a parent is not easy. I hope there friends will be supportive. Prayers to your family. Take care!
February 24, 2015
To the family of Jerome my deepest sympathy it difficult on all when we lose a love one to death " a good name is better the good oil" Eccl. 7:1. Jerome was a great person he will be missed by all.
Brenda Davis
February 24, 2015
My heart goes out to the family and close friends. Sending prayers your way. The smile will be missed.
Dr. Clara James Scott
February 24, 2015
May God continue to comfort and strengthen you at this difficult time. I attended Longwood College with Jerome and will always remember him as being a nice guy with a humble spirit.
tina
February 24, 2015
"A good name is better than good oil" says Ecclesiastes 7:1 Mr. Jerome Kersey will not be forgotten.
February 23, 2015
My prayers goes out 2 the family.I met Jerome at Longwood Unv.I worked at the snack bar.I am deeply sorry for your loss. Yvonne L.Woodson Farmville,VA.
BE Reed
February 23, 2015
Prayers and condolences goes out to the Kersey family. God needed Jerome more, and called him home. It is a devastating loss to his family, the people of Clarksville, people of Portland Oregon, and the NBA Family. No. 25 did his thing, and played Basketball during an exciting time in his life, as well as playing with the best (Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Terry Porter, Clyde Drexler, Brian Grant, the late Kevin Duckworth), as winning his first and only NBA Championship with the San Antonio Spurs...What a blessing! Jerome definitely lived his life according to the "dash" between the date he was born and the date he died. God has laid out his plan. RIP Prince of Peace. May God keep his family during this difficult time of bereavement.
bvd
February 23, 2015
Our deepest condolences.
February 23, 2015
God speed Jerome, God needed a hero so He sent for you.
February 23, 2015
One of the greatest players that ever hit the court. I love the PT back in the day, Porter,Drexler, Duckworth, Williams, and Kersey. Gone but not forgotten.
February 23, 2015
We will truly miss you Jerome, our hearts are deeply sadden by this great loss. May God Keep and Bless the family.
Ron Shapland
February 23, 2015
R.I.P. JK25
Ron Shapland
February 23, 2015
I love you Jerome Kersey
you'll always be in my heart forever JK 25 will always be in my heart and memories god bless prayers to the family but you are on God's team now take it to the rim
Cathy Hughes
February 23, 2015
You'll live forever in all our hearts and truly missed by all . The Lord's peace and understanding to all that love and adored you.
Kevin Willis
February 22, 2015
Jerome was a dear friend,teammate and one special guy.we came into the league together in1984.We first met in Chicago pre draft camp that was the beginning to a lifetime friendship. Boy" Jerome turn that camp out. What great memories we had.you will 4 ever live on in my heart my friend. God bless your family.
Kevin Willis
wayne buehner
February 22, 2015
One of the warmest and personable human beings I have ever met... Thoughts and prayers to the Kersey family
February 22, 2015
God bless Jerome Kersey's family! He will definitely be missed! Remember the smile. :)
Isy and Gonzalez Family
February 22, 2015
NBA and the city of PORTLAND, OR., We have had a great lost to the community, R.I.P. My condolences to the KERSEY FAMILY. :'(
Isy Gonzalez
February 22, 2015
I had the great pleasure and honor to me him at the play-offs last yr 2014, he sighed some shirts for me and my daughters, and after he finished he called me by first name "ISY GONZALEZ" Where are you?, and me only 5'4", standing next to him, he laughed so hard and said "I ALMOST STEPPED ON YOU", as he looked down at me and leaned down and gave me a big hug, as we walked into the MODA CENTER together to the game. May YOU rest in PEACE, AND BLESS YOUR FAMILY at this time of great loss. I and My kids as BLAZER FANS will miss your cheerful smile as we used to see it at the game. :'( R.I.P.
cedric mclaurin
February 22, 2015
"My prayers are with the kersey family, may god give you strength during this time of sorrow, god will give you strength to get through this. He will be dearly missed.
Cedric McLaurin Portland, Oregon
moma w
February 22, 2015
May the family find peace......you will meet him again., God have mercy..rip
Heather K
February 22, 2015
I admired your energy on the court, and seeing you hustle going after rebounds, jump balls, and diving out of bounds to save the ball. But your smile and personality made me love you. Still crying at the news of a good man lost way too soon.
George Dyer
February 22, 2015
In the early 90's my wife and I met Jerome Kersey at a reception for professional athletes in Squaw Valley, CA. We saw a person standing by himself on the outdoor patio, we walked over and introduced ourselves and found out he was Jerome Kersey. Make a long story short we chatted for about an hour and have to say Jerome was one of the most interesting, nicest guys you'd ever want to meet. We were deeply saddened by his sudden death and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
February 22, 2015
My thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are with you during this especially difficult time.
Sincerely,
Lona C. Cornish
Annette
February 22, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Melody Epperson
February 22, 2015
Prayers go out to the Kersey family. Jerome was one of my favorite players during his NBA career. Loved that Portand team he played on. Was glad when he finally won a title with the Spurs in 1999. He was a class act and will sorely be missed.
Rachel Jackson
February 22, 2015
I never knew Mr Kersey personally but he was my favorite player and he was a joy to watch. Even more impressive, he was even more awesome off the court. To his wife, family and friends, my deepest condolences on the loss of this most beloved man. May God give you strength during this time and know that one day every thought of him will be remembered with smiles and tears of joy.
Tyrone Hanks
February 22, 2015
RIP 25 your on GOD'S team now.
James Reynolds
February 22, 2015
As a former high school teammate of Jerome, I am saddened to learn of his sudden passing. Rest in peace Jerome, you did the "Bluestone Barons" proud! God bless your family. You will forever be missed!
Randy Blair
February 22, 2015
I used to have a red and black volkswagon. It was the Blazerbug. I managed to get 150 Trailblazers to sign their "Auto"graph on my bug. But it all started with Jerome. I have a million memories with that car but my favorite is of when Jerome saw me coming to him with a VW door hanging around my neck. The expression on his face was priceless. Anyone who ever saw one of Jerome's warm smiles, knows exactly what I'm talking about. Thanks Jerome. You're the greatest!!!
February 21, 2015
Condolences to the Kersey family. Jerome was a true treasure of a human being. He interacted with my brother and I a couple dozen times when we were kids chasing autographs after Blazer games. So friendly and fun, Jerome gave us memories as well as his signature. He was an awesome human being. Sean & Pat Miskimins (now living in Washington DC and .A.)
Wally Hames
February 21, 2015
The Hames Family will forever have a special place in our hearts because of Jerome and Teri. We love you guys.
At our daughter, Kersey's graduation (She was named after the greatest of all time).
Wally Hames
February 21, 2015
Our hearts are saddened over the loss of this wonderful man. He truly was one of a kind. Our thoughts and prayers are with Teri and her family.
James Blow
February 21, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with the Kersey family.
February 21, 2015
The Chaffee family from Portland, Oregon want to share our condolences for the family of Jerome Kersey. We watched Jerome play for the Trailblazers and respected his skills and admired his integrity. As well, we've appreciated all he has done for the team after he quit playing. He was a man we greatly admired. We're so sorry for your loss and the loss of those in the public who knew what a great he was.
Christian Nabor
February 21, 2015
May the peace God gives to those who ask, help you to cope with your loss.
Anna
February 21, 2015
My condolences going out to Jerome Kerseys family.
February 21, 2015
On behalf of the Bowers Family from Clarksville, VA, where Jerome and I were childhood friends, and played together as a young children, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Kersey Family. Our hearts are with you during this time of sorrow.
Warmest regards,
Delta R. Bowers, DM
February 21, 2015
I am sorry for your loss. Please find peace and comfort in knowing God cares for you and will help you in your time of need. At 1 Pet. 5:7, He invites you to "throw all your anxiety upon Him." Continue to rely on Him for strength during this difficult time.
carolyn
February 21, 2015
My heartfelt sympathy is with the family. When our loved ones are taken away in death it can be a very devastating time for the ones that are left behind. Hope, Prayers, and faith that our heavenly father's promise will be fulfilled soon. (1Cor, 15:26)
Precious Dukes
February 21, 2015
My prayers go out to the Kearsey family. I didn't know Jerome but as a basketball fan, I followed his career. He was a great player but most of all I will never forget his smile. May his soul rest in peace. Gone to soon.
delmar
February 21, 2015
sorry for your lost kersey family. may jehovah bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Aaron
February 21, 2015
My condolences for your loss, May the God of all comfort bring much peace & comforrt to your family at this tragic time. (2 Cor 1:3)
N. Byrd
February 21, 2015
I am very sorry for the family's loss. Please overcome these difficult times with the hope God has given us through his word for the near future. John 5:25-29 gives us an overview of what he has planned for humanity. These verses can bring hope and peace to you and your family.
February 21, 2015
May the Almighty God of comfort be with family and friends at this time of dew sorrow. God loves you.
Connie Marrow
February 21, 2015
May God give you all the strength u need. We all loved Jerome and he will be greatly missed but remember that God loved him the most.
Kenneth Hendeson
February 21, 2015
Kenneth Ray Henderson, I've known Jerome all my life. We with to the same school, rode the same bus. Jerome was a great guy. One that you don't encounter to often. Always been a hustler. We will truly miss this guy. When I got the news it was like getting hit right in the gut. I pray God's comfort upon his family and loved ones. R.I. P my brother.
Jamesmother
February 21, 2015
To the Kersey Family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. May all the wonderful memories of Jerome give you all comfort. And most of all, remember, that the Father of Tender mercies will sustain you through his
word, with Hope.
Christopber Watkins
February 21, 2015
I will always love you my brother. My heart go out to the Kersey family!
Christopber Watkins
February 21, 2015
Jerome my brother. Child hood partner Chris. R.I.P.
February 21, 2015
To the family of Jerome Kersey, May the God of all comfort be with the family and friends
Rachael Thomas
February 21, 2015
Gone too soon
John Boss
February 21, 2015
Your smile was as BIG as your Heart. All your friends from Oswego Point B&G...
Nanette Fisher
February 20, 2015
My sincere condolences to Jerome's family and all of those whose lives he touched. I will never forget his smile and zest for life! I was fortunate to have met and taught him at Longwood and I will always remember what a kind, warm hearted and courteous young man he was. He was a great role model for all whose path he crossed. He will truly be missed but never forgotten! Rest in Peace Jerome. Job well done......
Judy Taylor
February 20, 2015
So sad to hear of Jerome's passing. He was a joy to watch on the court and such an outstanding citizen in the community. I pray you feel God's presence as you go forward.
February 20, 2015
RipCity will miss you Jerome!! RIP
Comedian Jay Mather
February 20, 2015
God Needed An Angel
He Blessed us with the Gift of His life. an Eternal light of Hope he left
For all to Remember loved and Adored in our Hearts forevermore.
Michelle Perry
February 20, 2015
Jerome will never be forgotten, he was one amazing person!! I'm truly in shock, my thoughts and prayers go out to his family!! RIP
john costas
February 20, 2015
I am shocked and so saddened. Peace to the Kersey family.
Dr. Yvonne Doswell
February 20, 2015
I went to high school with Jerome and it is still a shock that he is gone. His family is in my prayers. He was always a gentle giant. The class of 1980 Bluestone Senior High are all saddened by his death.
Irene Wilde
February 20, 2015
A beautiful soul, a big heart...You will be missed by so many...Thank you for touching our lives...God's blessing to your family...A fan, Irene
Scott Chamberland
February 20, 2015
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
Bryan Kersey
February 20, 2015
So sorry to hear of the loss of a great man. Jerome will always be remembered by his tremendous effort and smile. We love you my brother and will forever miss you. You created greatness in your own way and had such an impact on so many people.
Allen Bailey
February 20, 2015
Gods court is full of angel's, playing by holy rules, no salary caps, no trading, no fouls but lots of praising, worshiping and golry to God. Play on brother Kersey.. Gods keeping score , the clock nerver run out and you're on the winning team .
rm
February 20, 2015
May the peace of God and his everlasting strength be with the family, friends and fans of Jerome Kersey. Psalm 121
John and Brenda
February 20, 2015
We offer our heartfelt condolences to the Kersey family during this difficult time. Jerome obituary says it all: He was a great basketball player, highly respected by his teammates and friends, and very much admired by his fans. Please allow God to be your refuge and your strength during this time of great sadness. (Psalm 91:2)
February 20, 2015
Please accept my deepest sympathies; I know what losing someone close to you suddenly feels like.
Carolyn Murray
February 20, 2015
To The Kersey Family,
It is a shock to hear of your loved ones passing, God gifted him with his talent. God will surround your family with his sincere graces of mercy and strength through this sorrowful time. It was a pleasure to watch him during his NBA career. Keep the joyful memories alive in your hearts and spirits, this is where he will dwell forever. Amen
Jeff
February 20, 2015
His passion for the game, and life, was, is and will always be an inspiration to me. Jerome set the bar for pushing his talents to the highest level - on and off the court. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Joie Mohler
February 20, 2015
My deepest condolences to the family. My heart is breaking for his family, friends and teammates. Jerome was a great athlete, who brought many people joy. He was a champion. He was our champion. He was an even greater person. He will never be forgotten. I am praying for his peaceful repose.
kd nelson
February 20, 2015
Our Condolences to Family members.
Jerome will be miss. rest my friend.
C.Nelson- Cleveland Ohio
Cynthia Staten_ classmate
February 20, 2015
Jerome will be missed!
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