David “Kenneth” Kersey

Mr. David “Kenneth” Kersey, 79, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at his home in Vidalia following a sudden illness. Kenneth lived a full, busy, and generous life—one marked by hard work, laughter, and a deep love for people and the outdoors.

A native of Emanuel County, Kenneth grew up in Adrian and graduated from Adrian High School in 1964. After high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army. He later earned a business degree from Swainsboro Technical College.

Kenneth was a jack-of-all-trades. Over the years, he ran a milk route, worked in the insurance industry, maintained a golf course, owned and operated his own service station in Swainsboro, worked for RC Bottling Company in Dublin, and, until his retirement, drove a semi-truck for Jennings Turf. Whatever he did, he did it with pride and a strong work ethic.

Known for his storytelling skills, Kenneth could turn a simple tale into a long, entertaining event—complete with pauses, details, and his trademark snicker at the best parts. He loved coon hunting with his buddies and his daughter and spent many years raising coonhounds. Gospel music was close to his heart, and he was happiest singing along with Sally and her family. If something was broken, Kenneth could usually fix it. More than anything, he loved helping others. He never hesitated to lend a hand, share his time, or invest in someone who needed encouragement.

He was preceded in death by his father, David Byron Kersey; his mother, Isabell Williams Durden; and his stepfather, Pete Durden.

He is survived by his wife of eighteen years, Jackie “Sally” Palmer Kersey of Vidalia; his daughter and son-in-law, Michelle Kersey Fields and Bubba Fields of Statesboro; his stepdaughter, Susan Holt of Vidalia; his stepson, Johnny Holt and wife Lori of Lyons; six grandchildren, Madison and Makinley Fields, both of Statesboro, Tanner and Malali Moody, of Vidalia; and Hope Holt and Grace Holt of Lyons; his sister, Linda Powell of Twin City; two brothers, Johnny Kersey of Norristown and Robert Kersey of Kite; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; the mother of his daughter, Ina Ruth Smith; and countless young men whose lives are richer because Kenneth took the time to care.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday, December 27, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will follow at noon at Lamb’s Cemetery on Old McLeod Bridge Road near Norristown, with Pastor Steve McNure officiating.

Flowers are welcome, or memorial donations may be made in Kenneth’s memory to the Paul Anderson Youth Home, P.O. Box 525, Vidalia, GA 30475.

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