Date Of Birth: May 8, 1927
Date Of Death: February 5, 2011
Dr. Reverend Paul E. Kerr passed away on February 5th, 2011 at the age of 83. He was born in Monroe County, the son of the late S. Ross and Lola Kerr. Paul was was one of nine brothers and sisters. He was a minister 63 years serving the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the mid-west region. He is survived by his wife Betty Jane, and children Jane (Jay) Wignall of Indianapolis, and Paul ll of Columbus Ohio. A sister Mary (Calvin) Crohn also survives. Grandchildren include Andrew (Sally) of Indianapolis, Ashley (Adam) of Evanston, IL and Elizabeth of Columbus Ohio. After Paul graduated from University High School, he then continued on with his education attending Eureka College IL. and Lexington Theological Seminary, where he earned a Doctorate of Ministry degree, Paul also received an Honorary Doctorate of Ministry degree from Eureka College. He was a veteran of World War ll where he served in Europe. Paul was active in many community activities and organizations wherever he lived. He was most active in Rotary International for over 50 years. He was president of the Wooster Rotary and District Governors in N.W IL. He has been a member of the Indianapolis Downtown Rotary since retiring in 1992 and had been a member of the board. A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 20 at the Northwood Christian Church 46th and Central where he was a member and elder. A reception will be following the service in the Fellowship Hall where the family will receive visitors. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Northwood Christian Church. Friend may view his online guestbook at www.harrywmoore.com
Paul and LaVelle Stewart says
Our sincere heartfelt sympathy to you, B.J. and the family. We are saddened to learn of Paul’s passing. We have so many fond memories of both of you while you served First Christian Church in Moline, Illinois. We just recently viewed a movie of Vacation Bible School while Paul was our Minister. We so enjoyed seeing him in the movie. We are praying for you during this difficult time. Our love, Paul & LaVelle
Warren Zora Cook says
B.J. and Family. We are sorry to hear about Paul’s passing. We remember him from when he was Pastor at our church in Moline, Il. One pleasant memory we have is that he was responsible for getting our daughter (Darvi) to go on a Rotary trip to India. She enjoyed the trip very much. Our love to all, Warren & Zora
Paul E Tim Kerr II says
I think this will be more of a tribute to his great life than a condolence, but it’s perfect!!
Obviously, he had a great, awesome career for years, a minister for 50-some years that allowed him to get as close as poissible to God, performed hundreds of marriages, baptisms and funerals, but also was married for 60-some years. Two kids, 3 grandchildren and had eight siblings that he outlived (all but one).
He travelled to Europe countless times, China and Israel, let alone all over the Country all on a Preacher’s income!! He went to school with a great President and served in politics for awhile himself!!
He wroter a book that is in the Library of Congress and was in the midst of writing another.
I could go on and on I suppose, but I won’t. It’s looking like I’m bragging on his behalf!! Something he’d never do I’m sure.
That’s the DEFINITION of SUCCESS I think. A great man and a great life. CHEERS Dad!! Here’s looking at you!!
Tom Mock says
Dear BJ: So sorry to learn of Docs passing. I always enjoyed speaking with him whether it be at the sidewalk, grocery store or a restaurant. He left me with the impression that he enjoyed the conversation. Please accept my condolence on your precious loss.
God Bless You and your family. Tom Mock of the Villas.
Rev Dr Leo Patterson says
Our thoughts are with you the family. I was a member of the Rotary
Club of Mendota, Il when you were Gov. I am also a Eureka College
grad. class of 61 and a retired Lutheran Pastor living in Dixon, IL.
I am Gov.Elect of our Rotary District. You were an inspiration to me ! Thank you for your faithfulness,to God’s Call,Eureka &
Rotary !
Phyllis Owens says
Dear B. J. ….I felt very sad when I read about Paul’s death. He was always so vibrant and enthusiastic and positive about life, it is hard to imagine. Now I am thinking about all the good memories of your time in Moline. I want you to know how much Bill appreciated being on his staff as organist and it was a pleasure for him to work with Paul. We both appreciated our times with you and are thankful for that experience. I’m sure that you are surrounded by much love from your family and your many friends. That is so comforting as you adjust to this new life without him. I will be thinking of you and wishing you the best. Love and concern, Phyllis
PDG Kent and Marti Mallquist says
BJ,
Marti and I were saddened to learn of Paul’s passing. I enjoyed working with him in Rotary District 6420. Please accept our sympathy.
Kent and Marti Mallquist
Bob and LaRonn Jones says
B.J. So sorry to hear that Paul had passed away. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bob and LaRonn Jones
Judy Powell says
Paul was a very special person he will be missed by many.
Elissa Harrison Lindsey says
Betty Jane, just want to say how sorry I was to learn of Rev. Kerr’s passing. I remember him from when I was a little girl in Mitchell — he was always one of my favorites. He made you glad to be in church. My mother (Mary O. Harrison) and I ran into him at Spring Mill Park about 4 yrs. ago, and he was still easy to recognize and to talk to. Please know that your family is in my prayers. May God comfort you and give you peace. Elissa (Harrison) Lindsey