Thomas David "Tommy" Kerns

1940 - 2024

Thomas David “Tommy” Kerns, 84, of Salisbury, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 11, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born February 23, 1940, in Rowan County, to the late Claude Robert and Virginia Simpson Kerns. Mr. Kerns was a graduate of Boyden High School and attended the University of Maryland Automotive School. Tommy was employed as the service manager, for many years, at automotive dealerships throughout Rowan County. He later worked for and retired from Novant Rowan Medical Center, where he worked as a CT Operator with Public Safety. A veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard, he was a member of Harold B. Jarrett American Legion Post. He also served with Union Volunteer Fire Department, where he was a former chief. Mr. Kerns was a member of Union Lutheran Church, where he served on many committees and was a member of the Drew Wise Sunday School Class and the Good Timers Group. He enjoyed helping others in any way that he could and enjoyed sports, especially NASCAR and baseball.

Mr. Kerns is survived by his wife, Joan Elium Kerns, whom he married February 17, 1963; two sons, Jason Kerns of Salisbury and Travis Kerns of Katy, Texas; grandchildren, Blake Beulin of Salisbury and Jenica and Andalyn Kerns of Katy, Texas; sister, Claudia Short of Conover; and his special aunt of 102 years, Mildred Kerns Peeler of Salisbury.

The family will greet friends and relatives from 2:30 PM until 3:45 PM on Monday, March 18, at Union Lutheran Church in Salisbury.

A memorial service will follow at 4:00 PM on Monday, at the church, with the Rev. Heidi Punt and Rev. Tonya Brittain officiating.

Memorials may be made to Union Lutheran Church for the Narthex Fund, 4770 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to Tommy's medical team--Dr. Demming Ward, Dr. William Brinkley, Dr. Mark Aldous, and the staff of Novant Hospice for their care and guidance over the years. They would also like to thank their family and neighbors for their help and for being there to offer support.

Powles Staton Funeral Home of Rockwell is assisting the Kerns family. Online condolences may be made at www.powlesfuneralhome.com.