Kathryn Louise Kernan

Kathy Kernan, 75, of Imperial, passed away August 8, 2024, at The Mercy Hospice South de Greeff Hospital in St. Louis. She was born September 4, 1948, in Bonne Terre, to the late John and Myra (Baines) Yount. Kathy, a beloved member of the First Baptist Church of Arnold was a dedicated First Grade teacher in the Farmington School District at Jefferson Elementary. Kathy dedicated her career to shaping the minds of her students, instilling in them a love for learning and knowledge that would stay with them for years to come. Her commitment to teaching went beyond the classroom, as she poured her heart and soul into each lesson and every student she encountered. Beyond the classroom, Kathy found solace in the intricacies of cross-stitching, eagle watching in Clarksville, Missouri and the escapism of a good book. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Steve Yount; niece, Christa Yount; brothers in-law, Buddy Phillips, Jim Brewster and Patrick Kernan.

Leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication, Kathryn is survived by her loving spouse, Thomas Kernan, with whom she shared cherished memories and unwavering support; a nephew, Kyle Yount; niece, Caley Yount-Cooper; sisters in-law, Connie Yount, Rosemary Kernan Phillips, Arleen Kernan Brewster and Wilma Politte Kernan; brothers in-law, Don (Joyce) Kernan, John (Gretchen) Kernan; several nieces, nephews, other family members and friends also survive. 

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Friday, August 16, 2024, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The visitation will resume, Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 9:00 AM until the service time of 11:00 AM. Pastor Jeremiah Dietiker will be officiating. Interment will follow at Big River Cemetery in Irondale. Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.

Her legacy of compassion, dedication, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Kathryn's memory will live on in the lives of the students she taught and the community she enriched.