Richard Edwin Kerns, 65 of Taylorville, passed away at 3:14am on Thursday, May 6, 2021 in his home following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born on January 4, 1956 in Decatur, the son of Roy and Roberta “Betty” (Dasher) Kerns. He married Carla Jo Arthur on July 31, 1999 in Taylorville. Richard received an electronics technician degree from Lincoln Land Community College and worked for many years as an IBEW Union Electrician. He attended Taylorville Evangelical Free Church. He and his family were very active in Boy Scouts throughout the years and Richard earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He was an avid fan of the L.A. Dodgers and Fighting Illini Sports. He loved spending time outdoors especially working in his large garden. Richard loved bowling and competed in many leagues throughout his life. More than anything, he had a love of family, especially his grandchildren and great nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his wife: Carla Jo Kerns of Taylorville; children: Dustin Hensley of Cleveland, Ohio and Meagan Knepler of Taylorville; grandchildren: Zachary Hensley, Kolby Ford, and Korbin Ford; sister: Doris Green (Randy) of Taylorville; sister-in-law: Marty Kerns-Boosinger (James) of Sherman; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother: Michael Kerns.

The funeral service for Richard will take place at 10:00am on Monday, May 10, 2021 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Don Beetem officiating. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville. Visitation will be held from 4:00pm until 6:00pm on Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials in Richard’s memory may be made to the Kerns Family or Cub Scout Pack 132. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Richard, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.