Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Jerome Kearney Obituary

Jerome Raymond Kearney

Franklin, TN

Dr. Jerome Raymond Kearney (11/30/48 - 1/22/16) lived a thoughtful and purposeful life; one marked by love and spirituality.

Jerry was a devoted husband, father of four, and grandfather of eight. He lived to serve those around him and journeyed with the blessings of God. His extraordinary life began with a calling to walk in the footsteps of Christ as a Josephite priest.

Later, his life and career took a new path. He began a family and became a leader in healthcare services, ultimately culminating as the Vice President of Mission for St. Thomas Health. His profession allowed him to live his passion. He masterfully entwined his skills and position with the teachings of Jesus; serving those in need and calling others to do the same. A love for learning moved Jerry to earn Master's Degrees in both Theology and Human Development, then recently a Doctorate in Spiritual Ministry.

He is survived by beloved wife of 38 years, Barbara, and their children: Christopher (Marian), Cindy, Brendan (Katie), and Meghann (Greg), along with eight grand-angels. He touched the lives of many, always mindful of the needs of others.

Jerry's mark he made on the world will forever be felt, and his enduring mission to serve will live on in us and by those inspired by his loving presence. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the St. Thomas Health Foundation to benefit the Sister Juliana Fund, a cause held deep in the hearts of Jerry and his family.

Services will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 29th at the Cathedral of the Incarnation on West End Avenue in Nashville, with a reception to follow.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tennessean on Jan. 26, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Jerome Kearney

Not sure what to say?





Larry Harfmann

January 20, 2024

Remembering Jerry in thought and prayer today. May he Rest in Peace.

Larry Harfmann

January 20, 2022

My thoughts and prayers today as I remember Jerry.
I knew Jerry for many years through my brother, a Josephite. May he Rest In Peace.

Elizabeth King

January 20, 2017

Jerry was my only first cousin. I remember many family occasions my family shared with Marie, Ray, and Jerry. I am so saddened by his untimely death. Liz King

Roland Washington

November 9, 2016

I went to school with him in Newburgh, my. We were friends.

Larry Harfmann

April 2, 2016

Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jerry. Knew Jerry through the Josephites and visited him and his parents many years ago in Manhattan. Thought of him often over the years, as we lost contact. May he rest in peace.

Liz King

March 21, 2016

Barbara, I don't know if you are still reading these messages- but I just got your letter. I am in shock. I am so, so sorry. I will try to find your phone number. Liz King

Cindy Garland

February 1, 2016

Such a gentle kind inspiration to all he guided at Saint Thomas. Loved listening to his wisdom. He is greatly missed.

Sue Underwood

January 29, 2016

I would see Jerry in the hallways and he always has that smile on his face. And would always say hi to you as you went passed him. A great man and his smile just would make you feel so loved.

Joan Ruopoli

January 28, 2016

May you rest in Peace my dear Friend. You will be missed so much. You have touched so many peoples lives.

Robin Crowell

January 28, 2016

Barbara and family, so sorry for your loss. I worked with Jerry for many years. He taught me so much and helped me grow in my walk with Christ. He inspired me and coached me and became a reference for me often. I am a successful Nursing Home Admiinistrator today thanks to my coach and friend Jerry Kearney. He always put patients first and lived the mission. Thank you God for men like Jerry he truly made the world a better place.

Mary Catherine Bowden

January 28, 2016

Jerry's smile, poise and caring will be truly missed by everyone he touched. I will never forget his impact on the mission of Saint Thomas. May he rest in peace.

Susan Stroud

January 28, 2016

I was blessed to know this find man and his family. He was loyal to his friends and was of service to all. My prayers are with you all.

Ted Stone

January 28, 2016

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Bob Shumskis

January 27, 2016

Barbara, I still remember Jerry as a classmate back in 1962 in NY and the trips to visit his parents in Manhattan. My most profound prayers go out to you and your family.

Margaret Hannah

January 27, 2016

I loved all his articles he wrote at St Thomas.He was a kind gentle spirit who knew Jesus.Jerry will be truly missed.

Sr. Joanne Cozzi, D C.

January 27, 2016

What a legacy of love Jerry left us. I will miss seeing him at St. Thomas when I visit. He was and is one I value and call him a friend and brother. My prayers are with you as you grieve your loss. Lovingly. Sr. Joanne, D. C.

Kim Davis

January 27, 2016

Truly, one of the kindest and most compassionate people that I have ever known. He loved his wife and family with a passion, enjoyed life with a zest, always helping others and most of all loved God. He just radiated love and he had the most unforgettable smile. His humility was evident in all his works. I will never forget a time when Jerry helped me file medical charts, the CEO!!! Loved his humor too!! Prayers to all his beautiful family, love you guys and love Jerry. He will be missed.

Kathleen and Drew Conneen

January 27, 2016

Our deepest sympathy to Barbara and family on the loss of the "Love of Your Life" and the exemplary Father of listening, support and love.
You are in our hearts and prayers.

Mary & Dan Carr

January 26, 2016

Barbara, our deepest condolences to you and your family. We enjoyed Jerry's wonderful Christmas letters for years after you moved from Naperville. He always wrote so lovingly of you and your children. May your hearts be filled with the joy of his memory.

Rebecca Howle

January 26, 2016

What a beautiful man with such a meaningful life. I will always love Jerry Kearney and am grateful for the impact he had in my life.

Joan Ruopoli

January 26, 2016

Jerry Was a big part of lives when we lived in Brookdale Illinois. We were his neighbors and had many good time with him. He was a excellent father and Husband. He life was devoted to his faith. He couldn't do enough for his family and friends. He was always there when someone needed him. His wife use to say Jerry will do it. He will definitely missed in our lives and in our hearts.

Rebecca Farrell

January 26, 2016

I've served with Jerry for many years at St. Thomas. He was an inspiration to us all. He truly lived the mission with great kindness and compassion. He was a great teacher to me and many others. He will be truly missed.

Showing 1 - 22 of 22 results

Make a Donation
in Jerome Kearney's name

Memorial Events
for Jerome Kearney

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Williamson Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services- - Franklin

3009 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064

How to support Jerome's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Jerome Kearney's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more