DAVID T. KEARNS

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University of Rochester

DAVID KEARNS Obituary

KEARNS--David T. February 25, 2011 in Stuart, Florida. Former Chairman and CEO of Xerox Corporation, 1982 to 1991. A graduate of the University of Rochester, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1952-54. He began his career with IBM in 1954, becoming Vice President of the Data Processing Division. In 1971 Mr. Kearns joined Xerox Corporation. Through his leadership, Xerox thrived and in 1989, received the Malcolm Baldrige Award for Quality. He served as Deputy Secretary of Education and was a trustee of several corporations and foundations. He was board chair of the University of Rochester and the National Urban League. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Shirley Cox Kearns; six children, eighteen grandchildren, two sisters and many nephews and nieces. Friends may call Tuesday, March 1st, 3-5 and 7-9pm at the Anthony Funeral Chapel, 2305 Monroe Ave., Rochester, NY. A funeral service will be held 2pm, Wednesday, March 2nd at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Rochester NY. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to David T. Kearns, Center for Leadership and Diversity in Arts, Sciences and Engineering at The University of Rochester www.rochester.edu/college/kearnscenter. To share a memory or photo of David visit www.anthonychapels.com.

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Published by New York Times on Feb. 27, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for DAVID KEARNS

12 Entries

peter connelly

February 21, 2025

David's integrity and wisdom is etched in the heart of so many of us Xerox alumni who witnessed his leadership first hand. Xerox was at the top of industrial innovation, quality, and ethical performance Because he set the tone and demanded excellence and truth. Sure do miss him...

Pete Connelly

February 21, 2022

years and years later, David's legacy lives in all the faithful Xerox team who gave from their heart to support him. Yes a job, but more than that a commitment to quality, integrity ,and delivering our best. Really owe him a lot... dr Peter connelly

Joe Carzo

March 1, 2011

I've been at Xerox for 37 years & will remember Mr. Kearns as the most inspirational CEO this company has ever seen. His leadership skills were only matched by his regard & compassion for his employees.

Natalie Willoughby

March 1, 2011

I had the priviledge of knowing and working with the Kearns family for many years. Mr. Kearns was a generous, kind, honest and loving man who loved life and his family with all of his heart. My deepest sympathy to Shirley and the Kearns family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Jim Hutchinson

February 28, 2011

David Kearns leadership in creating and shepherding Xerox through the Leadership Through Quality Program was a combination of vision, determination, charisma, passion and intelligence rarely seen in the annals of American business. After his distinguished career at Xerox, he never let any physical afflictions stop him working tirelessly for causes he believed in, particularly in his educational endeavors. David left the world a far better place then he found it and we will all miss him.

Jim Wallace

February 28, 2011

Kathy: Judy and I were very sorry to hear about the passing of your father. You and your family are in our thoughts.

Marjorie Kaiser Badger

February 28, 2011

Mr. Kearn's parents and my parents were close, personal friends. His Dad worked with my Dad at Friden Corporation. I grew up knowing David Kearns. He was a wonderful, kind and gracious man, God bless Mrs. Kearns and the entire family.

Paula Vanbuskirk

February 28, 2011

I had the professional pleasure of being a part of David's QUALITY approach to doing business back in the 80's. His forward thinking managed to bring Xerox back the the top. I met him once while he was casually touring our building in Henrietta. I found him to be a warm and caring person. His passing is a great loss.

Carol Pierleoni

February 28, 2011

Many years ago I was an employee for Xerox located at The Square. I had the pleasure of working for Mr. Kearns for a short time. He was a kind, gracious man and a pleasure to have known. My prayers go out to
Mrs. Kearns and the family

Cam Hyde

February 27, 2011

As an employee who began my Xerox career in 1975 in western Canada, I never met David during his tenure at Xerox. I only knew him as the magical force who led Xerox out of danger and into the resurgence of the 1980's. He brought us Leadership Through Quality, the 10 Series and 50 Series product lines and the confidence to return as the market leader. When I met him in his latter years I was overwhelmed with his extraordinary presence and charisma. What a gifted leader...and a person who touched so many. I feel blessed to have met him and to have worked under his leadership of our great company.

pete connelly

February 27, 2011

David brought light to people all over the world. His legacy of integrity and energetic spirit carries on.

Sally Krest

February 27, 2011

I am a retired Xerox Employee and met Mr. Kearns several times. He was a fantastic man, if he met you once he remembered your name (I was always impressed with this).

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