“I have fought a good fight; I have finished my course. I have kept the faith; I am now ready for my crown of righteousness that is laid up for me.” II Timothy 4:7

Vernon Thomas Kersey, affectionately known as “Smoove”, one of twelve (12) children born to the late Thomas Willie (Bill) Kersey and Mary Lee Cash Kersey on October 5, 1958 in Morven, NC. He entered eternal rest on Monday night, October 12, 2026 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Vernon was educated in the public school system in Anson County and graduated from Bowman Senior High School in June 1976. He was sincerely loved by his classmates. His personality was contagious. Upon graduating, Vernon entered the workforce and secured employment with several industries, including Bobuck Mills, Triangle Brick, Flint Fabrics, and Collins and Aikman in Norwood, NC. However, Collins and Aikman is where he earned (acquired) the name “Smoove” from his coworkers and friends. Vernon was a sharp dresser. Yes, he was “Smoove.” This name followed him throughout life.

Vernon was reared in a God-fearing home where divine biblical teaching was instilled in him. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, grew in the knowledge of Christ and became a bold soldier for Christ. He was an active and devoted member of Streater Grove AME Zion Church where he served until the end of life. He loved and supported his pastor, Rev. James L. Moore and all pastors that preceded Rev. Moore.

A man of faith, who professed that he was holding to God’s hands, worked willingly, and humbly as a steward, male chorus member, director of voter registration, and honorary member of the Life Members Council of the Women’s Home and Overseas Missionary Society. He was a member of the Lay Council. Vernon truly enjoyed working with the voter registration for the Church. He kept the congregation informed with voting opportunities and issues and carried many to the polls. “Smoove” also had a passion for cleaning and detailing cars. This service will be truly missed. Lest not forget that Vernon was a longtime fan of the Los Angeles Lakers, San Francisco Forty-Niners and the Carolina Panthers.

Vernon is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Willie and Mary Lee Kersey and three siblings: John Wilie, Osbon, and Lynwood.

We, who are left to rejoice in his memory are: Lemanuel Kersey, Wadesboro, NC; Olivia K. Ratliff (Craig), Rockingham, NC; Cleveland B. Kersey (Ora), Kansas City, MO; Bertha K. Hardin, Wadesboro, NC; Marion W. Kersey (Elizabeth), Polkton, NC; Barbara K. Ingram (Johnny), Wadesboro, NC; Evelyn K. Simmons (Bernard), Belleville, MI; Marvin Kersey (devoted caregiver), Morven, NC; and John Edward Kersey, Morven, NC. Caleb and Catherine Sturdivant of Lilesville, NC became his extended family.

Others left to rejoice in his precious memories are his nieces and nephews: Carl, Gary, Demetrus, Wayne, Juana, Kisha, Tamekia, Vanessa, Tyrell, Mario, Kinyotta, Fateana, LaJohnny, Quentin, Quendale, Damien and Derrick. And a host of great and great-great nieces and nephews. They all were special to him. They were the breath beneath his wings.

Vernon, “Smoove” was a blessing to many and will be forever remembered for his compassion, love, and kindness by a host of cousins, church members and many, special friends.

Finally, we can say, the battle is over, victory is won! Now he is in the presence of the Lord. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

The Homegoing Services will be on Saturday, October 24, 2026 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Smith’s Funeral Home, 604 Salisbury Street, Wadesboro, NC. Interment will be at the Streater Grove AME Zion Cemetery, Morven, North Carolina.