Wanda Kerns Obituary

It was always exciting to hear that "Juanita was coming in from Colorado Springs." Frankly, as a kid announcements of family visits could be a sure sign of pain and boredom -- but not this one.

Magical -- she was just magical and made everyone around her feel magical.

I never figured out how she could know so much about us and care so much for us when we saw her so infrequently but she could -- another of her unusual capabilities.

Though I didn't see her at all over the last years I miss her today for the absence of the very possibility that the word would again begin to circulate -- "Juanita's coming."

My dad, Walty Clark, loved her and her visits so much. I am sure they've enjoyed a wonderful reunion.

Heaven is louder, brighter, and more friendly today -- and if it is possible in heaven that anyone was standing alone in a corner, they're not anymore -- they've been brought into a conversation where anything can, and probably will, happen.

Jeff Clark
from Wheatcroft, KY

We all have those special people in our lives that rise above everyone. Juanita was mine! From my earliest memories of her she was my favorite. She was kind, loving, gentle, sweet, and encouraging. She always found something special about me and had a story about how that special something would make me great someday! Quite a treat for a little girl from Wheatcroft! She always wanted me to come and live with her for college. She always wanted me to come to Colorado Springs and see "her" mountains during the summer. My mom never let me go, but I spent many nights dreaming of being there. Those imaginary trips to Colorado Springs were indeed a delight in my youth. Simply said - she loved me. More importantly, she liked me! From day one. I waited for her visits. And, as I grew older, I never "outgrew" waiting for those visits from my special Juanita. We had so much fun traveling to Benton, visiting at Mamaw Hattie's or Aunt Lizzies --- or in our home. We had great talks over the phone. She was so funny! She got that from Aunt Bertha!!! When I was young she had this gold ring that was shaped funny - like a behive or something as I remember. The ring had a pearl in the middle. She always told me I could wear it when I came out to spend summers with her or came out for college. Another dream of mine. Allen, I am the cousin who came to visit this past summer and met you at the arcade. I brought the doll that she gave me when I was 5 years old (I have always kept it wrapped and displayed, but never played with it) - the doll that was just too precious to play with. We made my picture with her and the doll. This will forever be one of my cherished memories. I am so thankful I got to see her one more time on this earth. I am so thankful I got to tell her that I finally came to her home to see her. She smiled and said, "I am glad you finally came." I think she knew me. Bottom line, I was a blessed little girl with love all around me; it was indeed special to have another special person to love me. Juanita was my "movie star." We didn't have many of those in Wheatcroft! I thank God for having her in my life and for her love and encouragement. James and Allen, my prayers have been with you since her passing. I can only imagine what you are feeling. But, let your sorrow be softened by the knowledge of what she meant to so many. Grandchildren (Willie, I have met), you were lucky indeed to have such a special grandmother. I spent time with her and Willie, and I heard all the stories from her about the rest of you! She loved you so. In closing, I am thinking of all of you. I praise God for the time on earth and the memories I have of "Juanita" Kerns. Jennifer (Clark) Williams (Hattie's Granddaughter, Waldie's daughter).