Joyce Irene (Roberts) Kerns went home to be with the Lord on July 26, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease and cancer. She passed peacefully at her home, surrounded by family and friends. Joyce was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.
She was born on August 18, 1946, in Toner, Kentucky, to her loving parents, W.F. (Fred) and Maysie (Giles) Roberts. She was a beacon of strength and kindness from an early age, qualities that she carried with her throughout her life. Joyce's legacy of compassion and love continues to inspire those who knew her.
Preceded in death by her parents, her brother Bobby Gene Roberts, and her sister Phyllis Miller, Joyce leaves behind a devoted family who cherished her deeply.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Larry, daughters Lori Tester (Robert) and Amy French (Tony) and sister Brenda Philyaw. Joyce was a proud grandmother to three beautiful granddaughters: Macy Walling (Ethan), Courtney Grigsby (Robert) and Taylor Sons. Her joy was further multiplied with the arrival of her great-granddaughter, Riley Kern, who brought immense light to her life.
She retired as the esteemed legal secretary to Chancellor E.G. Moody. Prior to serving as Chancellor’s secretary, she worked at the law firm of Hawkins, Moody, Bingham, and Miller, and Mason-Dixon Trucking. Her colleagues admired her commitment to excellence and her unwavering work ethic.
A devout member of the First Baptist Church Hill, Joyce found solace and strength in her faith. Her involvement in church activities and her community was a testament to her generous spirit and her passion for helping others.
A Celebration of Life will be held at First Baptist Church Hill, Church Hill, Tennessee on July 30, 2026, at 7:00 pm. The family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Joyce's memory to Gideons International via GideonCard.org, as her heart's desire was to bring others to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Joyce Kerns will be remembered for her warmth, her infectious smile, and her unwavering love for her family and friends. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all.
