Edward "Sonny" Kerr

MARSHALL-Edward "Sonny" Kerr, 78, of Marshall, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at his residence. A retired instructor for the Department of Homeland Security with many years of dedicated service, Sonny began his distinguished career with the Bureau of Prisons. Born on March 10, 1947, in Dennison, Texas, to the late Sherley and Marthella Alverson, Sonny was raised by James "Boone" Kerr and Helen Rukes Kerr in Bridgeton, Indiana, and lived a life marked by hard work, integrity, and devotion to his family and community. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Kerr; his son, David Kerr of Charleston, South Carolina; his daughter, Laura Kerr of Marshall; and his cherished grandchildren, Katelyn Kerr of Marshall and Jacob Simon of Fort Meade, Maryland. Sonny was also a proud great-grandfather to Jaiden Carter and Savannah Kerr, both of Marshall. He is further survived by his brother, Danny Kerr of Rockville; stepbrother, Randy Kerr of Jacksonville, Florida; and special cousins Jeff Potts, Becky Madison, Randy Potts, and Peggy Potts, all of Fort Wayne. A 1965 graduate of Rockville High School, Sonny's athleticism and passion for basketball were legendary. He was offered a scholarship at Oakland City College before earning his degree from Indiana State University. He also served honorably in the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserves. Sonny grew up in Bridgeton, Indiana, a place he held close to his heart throughout his life. He first honed his basketball skills in the iconic "Kerr Barn" and excelled in both basketball and track. Known for his immaculate lawn, love of fishing, and enjoyment of golf, Sonny also left a lasting legacy as a charter member of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Artesia, New Mexico. A teacher at heart, he mentored many throughout his life, earning the respect of all who knew him for his honesty, loyalty, and unwavering moral character. A celebration of Sonny's life will be held on Saturday, July 12, at 1:00 p.m. at The Mill in Bridgeton, Indiana. Memorials should friends so desire may be made to the Terre Haute Children's Museum, 727 Wabash Avenue, Terre Haute, IN 47807, in his memory. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Gooch Funeral Home & Crematory, Rockville. Friends may sign an online guest register at www.goochfuneralhome.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward, please visit our floral store.