Ann O'Keefe Kern

Ann O’Keefe Kern, 82, of Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, December 22, 2025.

Ann was born in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales, to Edward and Sarah O’Keefe.

She served in the British Army. Professionally, Ann worked for the Hyatt in Dallas, Texas, where her warmth and natural hospitality shone through. In retirement, she and Jack fulfilled their shared dream of traveling the country by motorhome, happily “chasing sunsets.” Along the way, they volunteered at national parks across the country, giving back to the places and people they loved before ultimately settling in East Tennessee.

Ann loved her family fiercely and deeply. She never knew a stranger and always aimed to make others smile. Her kindness, laughter, and generous spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death and reunited with her beloved husband of 34 years, Jack Kern; her brothers and sisters, Peter Evans, Maureen Donoghue, Kitty Rees, Frankie O’Keefe, and Freddy O’Keefe; and her cherished niece, Trisha Goodhart, whom Ann raised as her own.

Ann is survived by her loving family, including her children, Norman Adie and Leah Adie, Donna Mitchell and Ally Mitchell; her stepchildren, Scott Kern, Brad Kern, Mitch and Twilynn Kern, Dean Kern, and Shawn and Brandy Greer.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren, Adam and Jill Hoover, Jennifer Sinclair, John and Jai Morelock, Austin Greer, Mathew Kern, Timothy Kern, Millie Adie, Megan Adie, Hayley Russell, Ashton Kern, and Holly Kern; and her great-grandchildren, Marleigh, Elijah, Jack, Russell, Kirra, Alisha, Declan, Seun, John, Logan, Bella, Oscar, Daisy, and Aligh.

Her life was one of adventure and unconditional love—a legacy that will live on through the many lives she touched.

The funeral service for Ann is scheduled from 12:30pm to 1:30pm on Saturday, January 3, 2026, in the Oak Hall at Morris-Baker Funeral Home. Pastor Antwann Yocum will officiate the service.

A graveside service will be held following the funeral service at 3:00pm at the Horse Creek Church of God Cemetery. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 2:50pm.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Avenue Johnson City, Tennessee 37601, is honored to serve the family of Ann Kern. 423-282-1521.