Paul Kerns II

Paul Leland Kerns II, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, February 10th, 2011. Paul was born on September 26, 1941 in Daytona Beach, Florida. He graduated from Mainland HS and continued his education at The Citadel and Jacksonville University. He began his career with Southern Bell in 1963, and was a visionary in the company and a major contributor for over 30 years. He raised three children and resided in Switzerland, Florida the last 32 years of his life. Paul never met a stranger and developed hundreds of friendships over the years. He stayed in touch with many of his life-long friends. He was often described as full of life, always smiling, and never spoke a negative word about anyone. Paul had an adventurous spirit and never took life for granted. He and his wife, Jackie, loved traveling with family and friends and was always looking forward to the next big vacation. His family was most important to him and often said that was what kept him going all these years. Paul was an avid runner and had the honor of carrying the Olympic torch in 1984. He held various records not only in Jacksonville but across the United States. He never met a sport he didn't love or couldn't master, from running, to basketball, to handball, to golf. He always made it a top priority to attend and support his children and grandchildren in any endeavor they chose. He was a hero to all of us for his valiant nine year fight against cancer. He inspired others fighting cancer and his positive attitude drew people to him. He often said, “you can either be living with cancer or dying from cancer”, and he chose living with it. Paul and his family became very passionate about joining the fight against cancer by participating in Relay for Life, the American Cancer Society's premier fundraiser. His family will continue their efforts to not only honor Paul but so many others who have lost their battles or are still fighting. Paul was lovingly cared for by his wife, Jackie, his children Mark, Kim and Laurie, their spouses Cathy, Chuck and Dave, his grandchildren Tera, Kadie, Kayle, Kendall, Emily, Carson and Griffin, and his four-legged friends Daisy, Truffles and Shiloh, who never left his side. The Celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, February 15th, 11:00am, at Switzerland Community Church, 2179 SR 13, Switzerland, Florida, 32259. Memorial contributions to be made to Haven Hospice in lieu of flowers. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025