Robert Kerley Sr.

Kerley – Robert Kerley, Sr., age 76, of Lawtey, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, at Suwannee Valley Hospice Care Center in Lake City, Florida. He was born on July 14, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Cecile and Elonor Kerley. After high school, Robert attended trade school, where he earned his certification in carpentry-a skill he took great pride in throughout his long and fulfilling career in carpentry and construction. Robert married the love of his life, Gracie Partner Kerley, and together they shared almost 50 years of marriage. In the 1990s, they moved their family to Lawtey, Florida, where they built a loving home filled with cherished memories. A man of deep faith, Robert was a devoted member of Smyrna Baptist Church, where he enjoyed worshiping and fellowshipping with his church family. In his spare time, he loved flipping through car books, watching old western movies, tending to his blueberry trees, and cheering on his beloved Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Robert was known for his great sense of humor and ability to make others laugh. One of his most treasured daily routines was speaking on the phone with his loyal childhood best friend, Joe Howard. Robert was a loving husband, son, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Gracie Partner Kerley; and three sons: David, Thomas, and Baby Kerley.

Robert is survived by his sons; John (Denise) Kerley, Robert Kerley, Jr. and Andrew Kerley all of Lawtey, FL; grandchildren, Tricia (Cody) Gillyard, Tanya (Jules) Combs, Michael Griffis; great grandchildren, Anthony Batten, Darrell Combs Karina Combs, Dalilah Gillyard, Zylah Gillyard along with many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Robert's Life will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 11:00 am At Smyrna Baptist Church with Pastor Charles Starling to officiate. interment to follow at Hope Baptist Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church at 10:00 am . Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, Fl. 904-964-5757