William Eugene Kerr

Mr. William E. (Bill) Kerr, age 85, of Troy died at his home on Friday, November 29, 2013 surrounded by his family. Bill was born February 6, 1928 in Pineville, NC, the son of the late William White Kerr and Mary Howie Kerr. After graduation from Pineville High School in 1945, Bill entered Western Carolina University. After a year of college Bill joined the US Navy where he served aboard the USS George MacKenzie. After his service to his country Bill entered Clemson University where he graduated in 1952 with a BS Degree in Agriculture and Animal Science. He then began working for Purina Mills and subsequently opened "Bill's Farm Center" in Troy. He later worked for B and P Poultry, Peachland Candor Hatchery and Perdue Farms. He was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church where he taught Sunday School and participated in lay ministries and other activities. During his retirement Bill loved gardening, camping, canoeing, and golfing with his friends. He loved and cared for all God's creatures and was an avid adopter of abandoned dogs. He is preceded in death by his wife of forty-three years, Esther Varnadore Kerr, a brother Herbert, a sister Emma Kerr Fletcher. He leaves behind to cherish his memories: four daughters: Eva Kerr Cooke (Mike), Betsy Kerr Mitchel (Roger), Kathryn Kerr Wheeler (James), Nancy Lynn Kerr; five grandchildren: Michael R. Cooke II, Katie Cooke Georges (Pete), Caitie Mitchel, Willa Mitchel and Elizabeth Kerr Wheeler. The family will receive friends Saturday, November 30, 2013 from 6 - 8 pm at Pugh-Troy Funeral Home, 211 N Main St, Troy. A service to celebrate his life will be Sunday at 3 pm at Trinity United Methodist Church, 239 N Russell St, Troy with the Rev. Dr. Bryan Faggart officiating. Burial with military honors provided by the Randolph County Honor Guard will be in Southside Cemetery, S. Main St., Troy. A time of remembrance will be in the fellowship hall of Trinity United Methodist Church immediately following the graveside service. Memorials may be directed to Trinity United Methodist Church Methodist Men or the Trinity Music Academy at 239 N Russell St., Troy, NC 27371 or to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73123-1718. On-line condolences may be made at www.pughfuneralhome.com. Pugh-Troy Funeral is serving the Kerr Family.