Michael Dean Kern

Michael Dean “Mickey” Kern, 80, peacefully entered his heavenly home on March 13, 2026, at Randolph Hospice House, surrounded by his loving children.

A graveside service and burial will be held Friday, March 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Beane Family Cemetery, with Rev. Craig Asbill officiating.

Mickey was born on June 22, 1945, to the late Tim Tewey Kern and Dorothy Irene Saunders Kern. He was a proud graduate of East Montgomery High School, Class of 1963, where he was known as a talented athlete who played baseball, basketball, and football. Baseball held a special place in his heart, and his skill on the field even drew the attention of scouts from the Minnesota Twins. After graduating, he continued his education by completing coursework at University of North Carolina at Pembroke.

Mickey married the love of his life, Nancy Carol Beane, in December 1965. Together they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage and built a strong and loving family.

Mickey worked faithfully throughout his life to provide for his family. He served as a longtime supervisor at B.B. Walker Shoe Company in Asheboro, North Carolina. Over the years, he also held several night watchman positions and worked in the cleaning industry.

Outside of work, Mickey had a deep love for sports. He rarely missed a chance to cheer on the North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball and was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees. He also enjoyed collecting baseball cards and trying his luck with lottery tickets.

Mickey was truly one of a kind—a natural, self-made comedian. Those who knew him will remember his quick wit, warm personality, and wonderful sense of humor. He had a special gift for making people laugh and brightening every room he entered.

Family was always at the center of Mickey’s life. He cherished his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was the proud father of three daughters, grandfather of nine grandchildren, and great-grandfather of eleven great-grandchildren. He was also joyfully anticipating the arrival of his first great-great-grandchild. Mickey took great pride in his growing family and shared a special bond with his beloved grand-dog, Pookie.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Beane Kern of the home; his three daughters, Tammy Godwin (Terry), Lisa King, and Michelle Luther (Michael), all of Asheboro; eight grandchildren: David King, Carolyn Garner (Dustin), Allison Godwin, Patricia Pecorella (Joey), Faith King, Brandy Luther, Brittny Vaughn (Jeremy), and Adrienne Luther; eleven great-grandchildren; and his grand-dog, Pookie. He is also survived by five sisters: Judy McCreary, Doris Welch, Jeanne Black, Nell Daves, and Terry Parsons.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tim Tewey Kern and Dorothy Irene Kern; his sister, Silvia Chavez; his brother, Tim Kern; and his beloved grandson, Chad King.

A private family viewing will be held Thursday morning, March 19, 2026. Mickey will lie in repose from 12:00 until 4:00 p.m. Thursday at Ridge Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.

Mickey had a way of turning ordinary moments into laughter, and that gift will live on in the stories his family will tell for generations.

“Well done, good and faithful servant…enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23