Billy Ray Kerns
August 10, 1942 - November 13, 2024
Billy Ray Kerns, 82-year-old Salina resident, passed away on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at the Oklahoma Veterans Center in Claremore. He was born on August 10, 1942, in Pryor to George Earl and Hester Betty (Gaylor) Kerns. Billy grew up and graduated from Salina High School. Billy married the love of his life, Vanna Lee Herrington on September 2, 1960, in Miami, OK. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from June 1960 to August 1963, and was stationed on the USS Shangri-La. Billy worked 31 years for GRDA as an electrician at the pump back station, where he was known as "Pumpback Bill", he retired on March 1, 2002. Billy enjoyed hunting, taking care of his farm and cattle, playing cards and dominos, but most of all he loved his family, especially the grandchildren.
Preceding him in death were his wife, Vanna Lee Kerns in 2021, his parents, George Earl and Hester Betty Kerns, and a brother Robert Kerns.
The family includes his children, Kevin Kerns, Keith Kerns, Kristi Brown, Kraig Kerns, grandchildren, Nicole Buckskin, Kassie Alexander, Kash Kerns, Kyleigh Brown, Katie Kerns, Keely Hawthorne, Kelsie Brooke, Karlie Kerns, great grandchildren, Bailey, Brayden, Brooklyn, Avery, Josiah, Micah, Daniela, Kason, and one great great grandchild Bristyn, a brother, Kenny Kerns, and a sister Sharon Kern.
The visitation will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. at the Stephens-Key Chapel in Pryor.
The celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Blue Springs Church near Salina, Pastor Lorne Beck will officiate. Interment and military rites will follow at the Ross-Mayes Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.stephens-key.com or on the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in care of Stephens-Key Funeral and Cremation Care of Pryor.
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