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James Oakley Kerns, 79, of Columbus, GA, passed away peacefully in his home on August 7, 2025. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907.
James Kerns was born to the late Margaret Vasbinder and Charles Kerns in Forest County, Pennsylvania on May 22, 1946. After graduating high school, he served in the US Army for 20 years until retiring as a Sergeant First Class. James was very athletic, enjoying various physical activities such as swimming and biking. He ran several triathlons and marathons and especially enjoyed dancing. He loved music, especially country and rock, and getting to know people. James was outgoing, energetic, always happy, and didn’t know a stranger. When he had a chance, he would play Texas Hold‘em and slots. James will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.
James Kerns is preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Vasbinder and Charles Kerns; brother, Edward Kerns, and sister, Audrey Spears.
James is survived by his wife of 14 years, Christine Kerns; two sons, Scott Kerns and James “Smo” Kerns and wife; four grandchildren, Maggie, Lucas, Kurk, and TJ; great-greatgrandchild, Kamrun; and nieces, April and Tammy.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4048 Macon Road, Columbus, GA 31907-2210
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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