Gary Kerley

Anderson - Gary Anthony Kerley, 65, died peacefully on January 29, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family. Gary was born in Meridian, Mississippi on February 20, 1960, the son of Yvonne and Andrew Kerley. The proud oldest child of six siblings, he was a brother to all he called friend.

His upbringing in Louisiana instilled a strong sense of faith, and love of animals and the great outdoors. This only grew in his nearly forty years in South Carolina. From the bayou to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Gary was most content admiring God's creation.

Following his graduations from Nicholls State University and Louisiana Tech University, Gary began his career in project management as an engineer. After earning his MBA from Clemson University, Gary spent a career in executive positions at commercial private equity firms before retiring in 2025.

Above all, Gary was devoted to his family. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Helen Edwards Kerley, children Grace Calhoun, John Andrew and Caroline Heidt Calhoun Kerley, sisters Julie Steib (Moe) and Belinda Sternfels, sisters-in-law Susan Willis (Jeff) and Mary Harris Edwards, and those lucky enough to have an "Uncle Gary."

Holding his memory dear are countless friends, including extended family, those he made cheering on his beloved Clemson Tigers and enjoying Lake Hartwell, the "Shepherds of the Marsh" fishing crew, and brothers of Phi Kappa Theta.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronnie, Randy and David Kerley, and his mother and father-in-law Gloria and John Edwards.

A memorial service and reception will be held at Grace Episcopal Church, 711 South McDuffie Street, Anderson, SC, on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. with Father Jack Hardaway officiating. Memorial gifts may be made to Grace Episcopal Church, where he was a dedicated parishioner for over 30 years.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting WWW.MCDOUGALDFUNERALHOME.COM