Effie M. Kerns' Obituary
KERNS, Effie M., age 84, of Xenia, passed away Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton.
Effie graduated from Harveysburg High School, class of ’60. For over 35 years, she worked as a cook for Trinity Community Homes before retiring in 2008. In addition, she also worked in activities as an assistant. When her kids were growing up, Effie and her husband, Ralph, farmed and taught their kids the discipline and hard work of farm life. They raised livestock, grew grain, and harvested vegetables on the farm. They were actively involved in the Southwestern Ohio Garden Tractor Club (SWOGTC) and made many memories as a family tradition. Effie and Ralph were huge supporters of their children and grandchildren, supporting them in 4-H and FFA events and activities. Over time, she had collected a variety of different bells. Among many things, she will be remembered for the pride and love she had for her kids and grandkids.
Effie was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ralph, in 2019; her parents, Elmer and Myrtle Dodds; three brothers, Bob, Roger, and Bill Dodds; and three sisters, Barbara Secrist, June Sprauer, and Elmerene Snyder. She is survived by her two sons, Tim (Karen) Kerns and Ted (Cheryl) Kerns; one daughter, Tammy (Wesley) Barr; six grandchildren, Brent (Melissa) Kerns, Casey (Josh) Via, Andy (LeAnn) Kerns, Adam Kerns, Sherri (Joe) Marsden, and Brian (Andrea) Barr; 12 great grandchildren, Kelsi Marsden, Lilly Barr, Sawyer Barr, Natalie Kerns, Sadie Kerns, Hudson Kerns, Chloe Kerns, Lexi Kerns, Blake Kerns, Owen Via, and Lincoln Via; two great-great-grandchildren, Parker and Waylon Essau; and one sister, Ruth (Walt) Hildebrecht.
Funeral services will be at 1 pm on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville. Jesse Aaron will be officiating. Burial will be at Spring Valley Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11 am to 1 pm on Tuesday at the funeral home. If desired, contributions may be made to Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton. Condolences at https://www.stubbsconner.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Effie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Effie?
Share a story where Effie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Effie you’ll never forget.
How did Effie make you smile?
