Almond, New York

Gerald H. “Jerry” Kernan – 73 – of McHenry Valley Road, Almond, NY died unexpectedly Monday morning (May 12, 2025) at the Orlando Regional Medical Center in Orlando, FL where he was taken after becoming ill while returning from vacation in Orlando.

Born in Hornell on May 26, 1951, he was the son of John & Eleanor (Griswold) Kernan.

A lifelong resident of the Almond area, Jerry was a graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School (class of 1969).  He had been employed for nearly 25 years in the maintenance department of Alfred University and for about 15 years served as equipment manager of the Alfred University Athletic Department, retiring about 14 years ago following 40 years of service.  He later spent 7 years as the groundskeeper for the athletic department at Alfred State College, and from 2017 until current he worked in the Green Thumb program for the NYS DEC.

A true “Outdoorsman,” Jerry cherished his time spent at his cottage on Honeoye Lake and on his hunting property affectionately called 4D Acres Camp.  He enjoyed hunting (deer & small game), fishing (especially on Honeoye Lake) and golfing.

Jerry was a lifelong member of the Almond Rod & Gun Club and a 33 year member of the Hornell Elks Lodge.  He was an avid Buffalo Bills (NFL) football fan (especially during the Super Bowl Years) and also enjoyed rooting for the Atlanta Braves (MLB).  Jerry had a deep love of his family and thoroughly enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and school functions.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brother, Ken Kernan.

He was married on May 5, 1972 (53 years) to the former Eloise Kuhn who survives.  Also surviving are 2 sons, Steven (Amanda Bailey) Kernan of Almond and Eric (Laura) Kernan of Almond; 3 sisters, Sherry Guinnip of Wellsville, NY, Bonnie (Ken) Ordway of Arkport and Janice (Ozzie) Osborne of Atlanta, GA; 2 brothers, John Kernan of Hornell and Donald (Chris) Kernan of Almond; 4 grandchildren, Aeden O’Connor, Bailey Kernan, Julia Price and Allison Kernan; several in-laws, cousins, nieces & nephews.

At Jerry’s request there will be no calling hours.  Family & friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” on Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Hornell Elks Lodge, Broadway Mall, Hornell, NY.  All are welcome!!  A private graveside service will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery, Almond, at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Jerry’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Almond Rod & Gun Club, C/O Eric Kernan, 1329 McHenry Valley Road, Almond, NY  14804.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.