Vicky Kerr Obituary
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Vicky Kerr, MD, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and trailblazer in the field of medicine. Vicky transitioned peacefully in Rock Hill, South Carolina, after a distinguished life marked by compassion, dedication, and an unyielding spirit. She was born in September 1948, in Boston, Massachusetts, to the late Victor E. Kerr, Jr and Mary H. Kerr, and quickly became known for her innate kindness and her commitment to uplifting others.
Dr. Kerr pursued her education with fervor, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Boston University in 1970, followed by earning her Doctor of Medicine degree from The George Washington University Medical School. She later earned her Masters of Business. Her educational achievements included recognition as a National Merit Scholar and membership in several honor societies, which reflected her commitment to excellence.
In her illustrious career as the first Black female physician in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Vicky not only broke barriers but also inspired countless individuals. As a medical doctor, she dedicated herself to the health and well-being of her community. She served as the medical director of North Central Family Medical Center and was integral in its development and opening. Dr. Kerr was one of the founding physicians who implemented a program offering free sports physicals to high school athletes at both Rock Hill High and Northwestern High Schools. She served on the board of Keystone Substance Abuse Services and was a member of the York Technical College Foundation. Later in her career, she served as a professor at York Technical College, where she nurtured the next generation of healthcare professionals. Dr. Kerr's legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for equality in medicine will undoubtedly endure.
Beyond her professional achievements, Vicky was a loving daughter, sister, and devoted mother to her cherished daughter, Celia Kerr, and grandmother her granddaughter and light of her life Ellie Kerr Jones. She is also survived by her beloved brothers, Vincent Kerr, MD (Karen), Victor Kerr, and Michael Kerr (Crystal); her niece Julie Kerr-Tyndall; great nephews Matthew and Daniel Tyndall; nephew Justin Kerr; cousin Claudia Widdiss (Sal); and a host of family and close friends who will forever remember her warmth and spirit.
Vicky's passions extended into her personal life, where she found joy in serving as a Girl Scout Troop leader, children's choir director, secretary of her neighborhood association, tutor for various local organizations, as an officer in the local chapter of the NAACP, and volunteering in her community. Dr. Kerr additionally served on the board of the York County Ballet and was an avid patron of the arts.
A visitation will be held in her honor on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Greene Funeral Home Northwest Chapel; 2133 Ebenezer Road; Rock Hill, SC. Dr. Kerr's Celebration of Life will follow on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the same location.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen (902 Crawford Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730), Pilgrims Inn (https://donate.forgood.org/donation/57-0789205), or VIA Health Partners of Fort Mill Hospice and Palliative Care (https://www.viagiving.org/one-time-giving, as a testament to Vicky's enduring spirit of generosity and her commitment to serving others.
Dr. Vicky Kerr will always be remembered not only for her medical contributions but for the incredible love and light she brought into the lives of everyone around her. Her legacy as a humble and ambitious woman, a fearless trailblazer, and a cherished loved one will continue to inspire future generations.
Published by Post and Courier - York-County on Nov. 4, 2025.