Herbert "Herb" Kersey

Herbert “Herb” Kersey, 88, of Jonesboro, died Wednesday at St. Bernards Medical Center. Born in Zent, Arkansas, he had lived most of his life in Jonesboro. He was a member of the Christian Valley Christian Church and loved hunting and fishing. A very family oriented man; he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. He was a volunteer fireman with the Valley View Fire Department and a 32nd Degree Mason.

A proud American, Mr. Kersey spent much of his life in the Army and Army National Guard. He served in the European Campaign in World War II and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He served in France, Belgium, and Germany and was awarded the Bronze Star, Oak Leaf Cluster, and three Purple Hearts. He retired from the military after 33 years of dedicated service.

He is survived by his children, Jimmy Kersey of Texas, Kathy Arterbery of Jonesboro; his brothers, Charles Kersey of Jonesboro, Roy Kersey of Brinkley; his sisters, Pauline Geater of Memphis, Mary Lou Nichols of Marianna, Helen Goodman of Brinkley; his grandchildren, Jennifer Wiley, Bryan Stevens, Scott Stevens; his great grandchildren, Josh Kersey, Monica Wiley, Bryce Bearden; a very special friend, Bill Hicks; and many other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Lillian Kersey; his parents, William & Lula Katherine Kersey; several brothers and sisters; and a granddaughter, Mandy Kersey.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 2:00 p.m. at Emerson Memorial Chapel with Boyce Cate officiating. Burial will follow in Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery with full military honors. Emerson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Active pallbearers will be Jessie Sutton, John Taylor, Kevin Smith, Craig Jones, Josh Kersey, Darrell Kersey, and Bryce Bearden.

Honorary pallbearers will be Bryan Stevens, Scott Stevens, Harold Tinsley, and Jerry Kersey.

Visitation will be Sunday from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home.