Corbin - Mary Frances Norton Kersey, born in Cincinnati, Ohio on February 20, 1928, passed away on December 22, 2025, after a life filled with love, kindness, and service to others. As a child, Mary moved with her family to Georgetown, Ohio during the Depression, later returning to Cincinnati to attend Withrow High School, graduating in 1947.

After high school, Mary worked at Kresge Department Store, where she met her future husband, Kyle Kersey. They married on July 16, 1949, and together they built a life that took them to several places before settling in Corbin, Kentucky in 1961. There, they raised four children and became deeply rooted in the community.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, C.L. and Hattie Norton, her beloved husband of 69 years, Kyle Kersey, and her son David Kersey. She is survived by her children: Mike (Debra) Kersey of Corbin, Steve (Sheri) Kersey of Louisville, Kentucky, and Beth (Bill) Hagerty of Cincinnati, Ohio. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Vince Kersey, Ryan Kersey, Sarah Bowling, Julia Lascara, Kyle Hagerty, Paul Hagerty, Kyle David Kersey, Ana Hagerty, and seven great-grandchildren.

A devoted member of Central Baptist Church since moving to Corbin, Mary taught Sunday School for many years and found her greatest joy in the Manger Ministry, where she offered kindness and support to families in need. Her compassion and warmth touched many lives, and she cherished the friendships she made through this ministry.

Mary was a loving Mamaw, traveling by Greyhound bus to Cincinnati to celebrate birthdays, attend concerts and ballgames, and cheer enthusiastically for her grandchildren.

Her love for gardening was evident in the countless hours she spent tending her flower beds, sharing plants with neighbors and friends. In cooler months, she enjoyed quilting and crocheting, making special quilts for each new baby in the family. Mary was also an avid reader, always with a book by her side.

Mary Frances Norton Kersey will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering support will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at O'Neil-Lawson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Josh Pollitt and Sunday School Teacher David Clinkenbeard officiating. Burial will follow in Rest Haven Cemetery in Corbin, Ky.

Visitation is from Noon to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 3, 2026 at O'Neil-Lawson Funeral Home.

Any memorial donations should be directed to the Manger Ministry at Central Baptist Church, 201 W. Fourth St., Corbin, KY 40701.

Condolences can be made to the family by visiting www.Oneilfh.com

O'Neil-Lawson Funeral Home in charge of all arrangements.