Emma Athens Kerns, 17, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Monday, January 29, 2024 at her home with family by her side.
She was born June 16, 2006 in St. Joseph to Michael and Ashley (Athens) Kerns.
She was a senior at Central High School.
Family meant everything to Emma. She loved her brother and her dogs dearly, and loved to help others. While known for her sass and speaking directly to the point, she was also a great listener. With her golden heart and beautiful smile, she exemplified her motto of “Live your life to the fullest,” always wanting to go with family wherever they went.
Emma loved drawing and painting, and was a fan of anything scary. Halloween was her favorite holiday, and she delighted in getting made up for it every year.
She was preceded in death by great-grandparents; a great-aunt; and a great-uncle.
Survivors include her parents; brother, Seth Kerns; grandparents, Paul and Paula Athens and Carl and Linda Kerns; great-grandmother, Jeri Howard; aunts, Melanie Smith and Jaime Landers; other extended family and friends; and beloved dogs, Walter and Waylon.
The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The family requests contributions to Emma’s Funeral Fund or to the family. To donate online or sign the online guestbook, please visit Emma’s Tribute Page at www.meierhoffer.com.
