/fit-in/200x300/filters:fill(white)/prod/1568/558040/HxILYcVLEpc0UhU213245.png)
Obituary For MR. VERNON “SMOOVE” KERSEY
“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.
Send flowers to the service of MR. VERNON “SMOOVE” KERSEY
Photos & Video
Condolences & Tributes
Add A Condolence
Bennett Family sent Large Mixed Dish Garden for MR. VERNON “SMOOVE” KERSEY - October 22, 2026
From your Cousins, the Bennett Family with love.
Vernon was SMOOVE indeed. Always quiet, kind and supportive. The world could benefit from more people like him. The family has my sincerest condolences.
To our childhood friends & neighbors - Lemanuel, Cleveland, Marion, Marvin, Edward, Olivia, Bertha, Barbara, Evelyn and the entire Kersey family,
The Little & Willoughby family of the Gatewood Station Community, send our deepest condolences.
May the precious memories of Brother Vernon, and all that he meant to each of you, remain in your hearts forever. Continue to hold onto God's unchanging hand and may God grant you peace, comfort and joy in the days to come.
With heartfelt sympathy, The family of the late Jolly & Mary Willoughby Little
My sincere thoughts & love to my dear cousin Vernon was a sincere & adorable cousin to me always a gentleman & caring person. He will surely be missed. Forever loved. Cousin Vivian
My condolences to the family RIP uncle smooth
Sending Love and Our Deepest Condolences To My Bestie Barbara and The Kersey Family. R.I.P MY DEAR FRIEND. Leslie & Henry McNeil and Streater Family
Sending our Condolences and love ❤️ to the Kersey family, So sorry for ur loss he will be miss. We enjoy him washing our car he never let us down for enything he was there when we needed him. Love you Kersey R.I.P.
PRAYING FOR STRENGTH AND PEACE!! FOR YOUR FAMILY!!!! REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND!!!! BETTY C WRAY!!!!
Sincere Condolences to Barbara and the Kersey Family! Love,Queen & Sidney Streater
Vernon was one of a kind, never seen him upset, and anytime he would pass by the house and see my truck there, he would always stop, and chat with me, and ask if I needed anything while I was there. A very good person and would go to any length to help someone out, he will be missed.
Prayers are with the Family
Family,we meet Vernon many years ago. We have remained friends over the years. When we are in the Carolinas We always look to see Smoove. He could really make a car look like a brand new car. He was good man and always treated us with love and respect and kindness. He will be truly missed. Take your rest my brother. Jefferey & Kathy Shoulders ,Huntsville Alabama
We would like to extend our sincerest condolences to the family of Vernon Kersey. Vernon was a beloved cousin who was a kind and caring man and he will be missed by all who knew him. Joe and Mabel Flowers
I have known Vernon for several years. He was a wonderful person. I pray that God will continue to comfort the entire family. Carol Ford
I am so sorry to hear of Vernon's passing. He was a good man and a friend. Family, you will be in my prayers.
/religious/cross-draped.jpg)
I will miss you so much my friend Vernon. Im heartbroken we didnt get a chance to talk before you passed. But you knew I loved you friend. You were always so positive, never a word against anyone. I give my condolences to your family & friends, may God keep you lifted up during this difficult time. Vernon was loved by many, respected & there will be no other like him, just "Smooth" Get your rest friend 🙏❤️
Continued prayers for the entire Kersey Family love you all.James&Jean Neal 🙏❤️
We have suffered a great loss, but heaven has gained an angel! To the Kersey Family, you're in my thoughts and prayers! It is my prayer that God comfort, strengthen you during this unimaginable pain! Vernon was such a loving soul! May God keep you all in his love! Vernon will truly be missed! God's peace be with the Kersey family and friends!
We send our prayers and love and condolences to the entire Kersey family. Mr. Vernon is safely at home with the Lord. He will be missed. St John Holiness 1640 Razor rd Allendale SC
Condolences to the Kersey Family.. so sorry for the loss of your love one, rest in paradise Vernon🙏❤️🌹
To the Kersey family, We're so sorry for your loss. Praying for strength and healing during this most difficult time. Vernon was such a humble man.
I send my condolences to the Kersey Family praying that God will continue to comfort during this difficult time and days ahead. Arnnette Taylor and Family
/religious/dove.jpg)
My condolences to the Kersey Family you are in my prayers today and forever Vernon will be missed great person love you all
You were a great friend Vernon...great person. Always provided kind words of encouragement and support. You will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences goes out to all family and friends. I pray that God will comfort you and provide you with the peace in knowing that he has completed his journey, and is now resting comfortably with God. Job well done, my friend.
Condolences of prayers and comfort to the Kersey family. RIP Vernon
To the Kersey family: Through the tears, sadness, and broken heart💔, I send my condolences and LOVE to you all. I could write a book about the friendship we shared, instead, I'll conclude the story with these words...Vernon was a one of a kind person, and even more, a one of a kind FRIEND. I'll miss you, and will cherish the memories. Marion & Elizabeth, Olivia & Craig, Marvin, Bertha aka"Brye", and the entire family.... may God bless you and comfort you during this time, and the times ahead. R. I. P."Smooth" S.L.
/religious/torah.jpg)
Sending heartfelt condolences and prayers to the family,friends and Our "76 Classmates. Smooth and I last talked at our restaurant a few Sundays ago when he stopped in for dinner after church with his family A very good friend will be missed. May God send comfort and strength during this most difficult time. James & Rosa Gatewood
A man who wrote and published his own story , my brother is my best friend forever. A life lived with deep spiritual readiness and a peaceful acceptance of mortality. May the Lord continue to pour out His grace and strength upon our family as we walk through this valley together. Vernon T Kersey you are missed today. Yay-Yah and Goobie will remember your love and will continue to love you in everlasting rest. With God !! Lynne
I met Vernon in high school. He was my classmate! Vernon was a friend to many people and no matter where he saw me he would always make his presence known. If he was at an event he would make sure that he was gonna be dressed for the occasion from head to toe! He would be clean to the max, but that was Vernon. He will be missed by many. My deepest condolences and prayers to the family. 🙏🏽🙏🏽💔 Sincerely, your classmate, Arrie Brewer Perry
My condolences to the family and classmates he will be missed very nice respectful classmates from Vickie Moore and family
My God' Comfort you and your family. Classmate Cathy Sturdivant.
"Kersey" was a friend to all. When my family owned Sam's on Morven Rd, he was a frequent visitor. We enjoyed his visits, as he always had something to share. Through the years, whenever I saw him, he asked about my family and my grandkids. He asked about my sister and her family. When I'd see him out dining, if I didn't speak first, he'd make his way to our table before he left the restaurant. A genuine gentleman in every way. I'll miss seeing him out and about, but I know his body is healed, and he's finding someone's car to detail! Rest easy Kersey... you will be missed.
Our prayers and condolences to the family and may God strengthen you at this time and always.
I don't even know what to say. Vernon was a friend of my husband and also a friend of mine. We grew up in the same church I spoke with him the week before he passed he will be missed now him and his best friend Curtis are together again.
/religious/cross.jpg)
Sending my deepest condolences and prayers to the family may God comfort you all during this time of sorrow. Angela Ledbetter / The Class who Care 76
On behalf of Myself and the staff of the Anson County Sheriff's Office, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all those affected by this loss. We stand with our community in offering comfort, strength, and support, and we hope you find peace in the memories you shared and the love that surrounds you.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time
Ours Thoughts and Prayers are with ALL of the Family
Ours Thoughts and Prayers are with ALL of the Family 🙏
Vernon was a dear friend. My car has not cleaned since Vernon got sick. I miss him so much, he was such a positive and kind person.
Sorry for your lost,he always help me when he comes over to the store l miss our talks.A wonderful person and cousin God Bless.Amen
Praying for the Kersey Family. May God Comfort and give you All His Peace during this difficult time.
Praying for the Kersey family. May God bless and keep you all.
Our Condolences to the Kersey Family and Friends.Smooth was a nice person. He would always speak when you see him. May God continue to Strengthen each of You.George &Virgie Mclea
Sending thoughts and prayers to the Kersey family on the passing of your dear brother. He will truly be missed. May God comfort the family during this difficult time, and may he rest in perfect peace. 🙏🏽🕊️ Raye Heilig & Family
May God rest his servants soul. Always positive. upbeat AND oh so thorough in his keeping Carols cars looking and smelling new. Love, hugs, prayers and positive thoughts for all who love Vernon! #AnsonCountyWEEPS
My heart is heavy! Condolences to the Kersey Family. Vernon and I called each other friends/cousins, we have been very close since the 70s. He will truly be missed. Rest In Peace "Smooth" 🙏 ✝️ ❤️
My thoughts and prayers are with Vernon and his family. I will always cherish the memories of our times together. 🙏
Vernon was a very special friend to us. He will always be remembered for his genuine love and compassion for friends and family. Rest in Peace and many condolences, love and prayers for his family.
Vernon was a very special friend to us. He will always be remembered for his genuine love and compassion for friends and family. Rest in Peace and many condolences, love and prayers for his family.
Sorry to the lost of our classmate 1976 rest well prayer to the family Bessie Teal class of 1976
I'm so sorry you will be miss cuz you will truly miss
My most deepest condolences Vernon and I have known each other since the 2nd grade over 60 years RIP my friend you,very earned it.
My prayers are with the family. May God strengthen you this difficult time of sorrow.
Sending my love and prayers to the Kersey family.
We are soo sorry to hear of Mr. Vernon's passing. Condolences go out to you as his family, in the days, weeks, month's and year's to come! Mr. Vernon was part of our "Martin" family. We loved him dearly. We met out for dinner on occasions, set and talked for what seemed like hours on so many occasions. Laughed, cut up, and had good conversations and never forgot our " I love you's" We will miss him dearly. We will never forget the memories and what a great man and friend he was. RIP Mr. Vernon. We will see you, when we see you! We love you, alway's!
My dear 'dear friend', "Smooth" is now resting in the arms of our God. On my last week's visit - we talked. You will be missed. Praying for all of the family that God gives each of you strength thru this "Season". RIP my brother! Caleb & Catherine Sturdivant & Pastor Tony Hornes, Sr. & the entire Centenary AME Zion Church's Family.
/religious/cross-bible.jpg)
Rest in peace cousin smooth until we meet again love u your cousin rashida Malik & Keisha Ingram & family
We have many great memories of our dear friend. I, Debbie graduated high school with him. He was a kind, caring person. I never saw him in a bad mood. He was faithful to do car care for my husband's business for years and then for me while I worked at the health department. After we retired he was faithful to drop by and talk with us and do our cars care. He loved venison sausage. My husband would try to give him a pack every now and then. We could just talk and talk with him. He was down to earth. We are so sad about his passing but we know he is with Jesus Christ. He would mention Him often to us. We will be praying for you dear family. It will be difficult but look to Christ like he did. Jesus will give you all the Peace and Strength that you need. Love to all.
My condolences, and prayers Aunt Olivia and family during this difficult time. 🙏
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.