Mr. Gerald David (Joe) Kerns, age 68, of Covington, Virginia, passed away on December 28, 2020 at Augusta Medical Center, Fishersville.

He was the husband of Deborah Carpenter Kerns.

Mr. Kerns was born November 2, 1952 in Alleghany County, the son of the late Delbert Dyle Kerns and Ruth Pence Kerns.

He was the owner and operator of D. D. Kerns Construction Co., Inc.

Mr. Kerns was a family man, a good friend, and a hard worker. Joe will be remembered as a loving father, husband, and phenomenal grandfather. Like his father, he had a love for collecting cars, especially the Packard which was his favorite.

Joe was an enthusiastic UVA sports fan and an avid golfer. He enjoyed sharing stories of his youth and growing up in the Dry Run area of Covington.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Kerns is survived by two sons, Matthew Christian Kerns and wife, Amber of Covington and Justin David Kerns and wife, Carrie of Wirtz, Virginia; two daughters, Alyssa Jade Jarratt of Richmond, Virginia and Demi Marshall Jarratt and fiance, Justin Lowen of Lynchburg, Virginia; ten grandchildren, Olivia, Ian, Sawyer, Evelyn, Bianca, Jabriah, Zebadiah, Quinn, Ava, and Ezekial; two brothers, Delbert Lewis Kerns and wife, Vicky Ann of Covington and Richard Duane Kerns and wife, Belinda of Covington; three sisters, Marjorie Kerns Clark of Richmond, Virginia, Vickie Mayo Kerns and Terri Marsh Kerns of Covington, Virginia; two nieces; a nephew and their families; a number of cousins; and his beloved dogs, Desi and Joesy.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Kerns was preceded in death by a brother-in-law and friend, William "Clunk" Clark and brother, Parker Payne Tucker.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to: Cope Food Pantry, c/o McAllister Presbyterian Church, 900 N. Alleghany Avenue, Covington Virginia 24426.

A private graveside service was held on Monday, January 4, 2021 at Alleghany Memorial Park, Covington Virginia. The family plans a celebration of life for later this year.

Arrangements are being handled by Loving Funeral Home; www.lovingfuneralhome1913.com.