Gloria Graff Kern, 92, formerly of Winchester, Virginia, passed away Sunday, October 1, 2017 at NHC Anderson in Anderson, South Carolina.
Ms. Kern was born in 1925 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the daughter of the late Conrad and Florence Graff. She attended Monmouth Teacher’s college in New Jersey before moving with her family to White Post, Virginia. Gloria was a Teacher’s Aide at Quarles Elementary School for over 15 years. She helped students with their reading skills. Her students were near and dear to her. She was a member of Relief United Methodist Church, a Beta Sigma Phi sorority sister, an avid Bridge player, Girl Scout leader, a lover of ‘big bands’ music and dancing. She was an excellent equestrian, enjoyed water sports, and sewing clothing for her daughters.
She married Wilbur Leonard Kern on December 27, 1950 in Winchester and they enjoyed 53 years together. He preceded her in death in 2003.
Surviving are daughters, Eileen K. Goodman (Jerry) of Fredericksburg, Virginia; Claudia K. Eaton (Ken) of Anderson, South Carolina; and Marian R. King of Winchester, Virginia. Grandchildren are Marc Goodman (Kailee), Nicholas Eaton (Onalenna), Andrew Eaton (Jessica), and Nicole King. Great grandchildren are Abigail Marie Goodman and Grayson Lane Eaton. She also leaves behind her beloved pug, Sunny Girl.
Along with her parents and husband, Wilbur, she was preceded in death by her brothers Theron and Reginald Graff.
A gathering of family and friends will be from 1 pm to 1:45 pm on Saturday at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel. A graveside service will be held at 2 pm on Saturday at Mount Hebron Cemetery, Winchester, Virginia with Pastor Aaron Fitch officiating. Immediately following, family and friends are invited to 2636 Stonegate Drive, Winchester for a time of fellowship and refreshments.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1833 Plaza Drive, Winchester, VA 22601 or SCDOGS Therapy Group, Inc, PO Box 12345, Sandy Springs, SC 29677.