Obituaries

James Timothy Kerns, age 60, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a courageous five-month battle with cancer.

Jim, affectionately known as “Chicken” to his friends and “Jimmy Bonehead” or “Boney” to his family, was known for his quick wit, golden heart, and unwavering generosity. He was an avid horse racing fan and especially cherished time at the track. Jim also loved playing golf, fishing, working crossword puzzles, watching sports, mowing his grass, and never forgetting to share a cold one.

A proud graduate of St. Pius X School and Covington Catholic High School, Jim grew up in Edgewood, where he formed genuine friendships. He later established roots in the Oakbrook neighborhood in Florence, where he raised his three children and fostered lifelong friendships with his neighbors.

Jim enjoyed a successful career in the tire industry, working for Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company before retiring from Gateway Tire. But his greatest accomplishment and deepest source of pride was his three children, whom he raised as a loving father and were the center of his world: Zach Kerns, Kara (TJ) Cain, and Brenna Kerns. He spent many years helping his kids accomplish their dreams.

He is also survived by his loving companion Beth Boatright, sister, Patty Hudepohl; in-laws Barry Hudepohl, Greg Eisenman, nieces and nephews Lindsey Hudepohl Hiller (Carl Hiller), Austin Hudepohl (Taylor Roy), Chance Eisenman (Christina Carmack), Madison Eisenman, and many beloved cousins, friends, and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Patricia Heffernan Kerns and James Kerns; his sister, Kelly Kerns Eisenman; cousins, Mary Jo Bruggeman and Kathy McNally. He was also preceded in death by his close friend, Don Suckow.

Visitation will be at St. Pius X Church from 4:00-6:00pm on Thursday, September 24, 2026 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 6pm. Burial is private at the request of the family.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The family also extends heartfelt gratitude to the incredible nurses, doctors and staff at The Christ Hospital, who provided compassionate care for Jim and his family.