Alice Elizabeth (Joiner) Kerns

Alice Elizabeth (Joiner) Kerns, 83, of Anna, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, at Stillwater Senior Living in Edwardsville, following a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s. She leaves behind a lifetime of quiet strength, deep connections, and cherished memories that will continue to be shared for generations.

Born on March 25, 1943, in Anna, Alice was the daughter of Albert and Elizabeth “Betty” Joiner, a beginning that grounded her in the community she would proudly call home for most of her life. A fun fact is that Alice lived most of her life on Spring Street, notably at 510 Walton, a place where everyone was welcomed and enjoyed spending time.

Alice attended Anna-Jonesboro Community High School and Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, and dedicated 36 years to Choate Mental Health and Development Center in Human Resources prior to her retirement. Known for her steady presence and thoughtful nature, she had a way of connecting with people that made others feel comfortable, supported, and truly seen.

Her life was deeply rooted in faith and community. As an 80-year member of Mt. Moriah Lutheran Church, Alice’s commitment was a true reflection of the values she carried every day. She also built lifelong friendships as a member of Delta Theta Tau sorority.

Alice gave generously of herself to her community. She served as a long-time member of the Board of Trustees and a dedicated “Friend of the Library” at Stinson Memorial Public Library, supporting a place that brought people together and fostered a love of reading. She also enjoyed coffee and conversation with her beloved “Coffee Crew,” a simple ritual that reflected how much she valued connection and friendship.

While Anna was always home, Alice embraced opportunities to explore the world. She cherished traveling with her family and friends, creating lasting memories across Mexico, France, Portugal, Hong Kong, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and locations across the U.S. One of her favorite destinations was Colorado, spending time in the mountains with her daughter Allison and family.

Alice had a gentle but unmistakable presence. She didn’t seek attention, but she showed up—consistently, thoughtfully, and with a kindness that made a lasting impression. She believed deeply in the importance of connection and in the small gestures that make life meaningful.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Allison (John) Livesay McDougall of Louisville, Colorado; her son, Brent (Dana) Kerns of Edwardsville; and her grandchildren Aspen and Margaret McDougall, and Brayden and Cameron Kerns who brought her immense pride and happiness.

She loved watching her grandchildren participating in the sports they love whether at the baseball field, on the golf course, or at gymnastics meets. Her grandchildren will also remember “Nana” for the practical life lessons she taught them: how to swim, how to count back change, and how to write a proper thank you note.

Alice is also survived by her sister-in-law Sue Joiner and uncle Dr. Luis Lau, along with special friends from church, the “Birthday Club” and Bridge Club, extended family members and neighbors.

Alice was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Joseph Cardwell Livesay; her aunt Mathilda (“Tillie”) Lau, and her brothers, Edwin (“Pete”) Joiner and Cardwell Joiner.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Mt. Moriah Lutheran Church in Anna. A luncheon will immediately follow at the St. Mary's Church Parish Hall. All are invited to attend and celebrate Alice’s life.

The family encourages those who wish to honor Alice’s memory to consider a donation to Stinson Memorial Public Library (Donate – Stinson Memorial Public Library District) or Mt. Moriah Lutheran Church. Be sure to indicate “Alice Kerns Memorial”. Donations made by September 30 will be matched by the family.

In remembering Alice, those who knew and loved her will carry forward the many ways she lived so well: showing up for others, valuing connection, giving back to her community—and savoring both life’s great adventures and its quiet moments, whether over dinner with friends or a nature walk in the mountains. Her legacy will live on in these moments, passed forward with love. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Stillwater Senior Living for their unwavering care, compassion, and support.