Jenny (Kerns) VanVolkom

Jenny is survived by her daughter, Deborah Blanchard; step-daughter, Chris Ahrend; daughter-in-law, Sissie Kerns; “adopted” daughter, Terrie Cook (Tom); grandchildren, Tina Cunningham (David), Corinne Harrison (Chris), Christopher Kerns (Amy), Laura McGhee (John), Daniel Blanchard (Sara), Chip and Chuck Ahrend; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Naahmah Tibbs; husbands, Dan Kerns Sr. and Charles VanVolkom; daughters, Betty Sue Kerns and Jody Kerns; son, Dan Kerns Jr.; and granddaughter Sara Kerns.

Jenny learned about loss at the age of nine when her father, John, a Richmond Police Officer, was killed in the line of duty. She would later tell the story about his death and how her mother found the strength to pull the family through the trying times that followed.

Jenny's older brother sparked her love of reading and her mother her love of baking and sewing. There was never a question as to who would bake the cake for any occasion! She had a "secret" recipe, and would laugh and tell you what it was if asked. Having made clothes for every child and occasion that arose, she would later enjoy making yard flags for everyone. During her career, she worked as a bank teller at Lakewood Manor, where she formed friendships with staff and residents, and vowed that, one day, she would live there herself, which she did in her final years.

Her love of others knew no boundaries. She loved her family and friends fiercely. She accepted everyone as they were, and had a way of sensing when someone was hurting. She was a long-time devoted member of Westhampton Baptist Church. Her devotion to God and her church led her through times of delight and sadness. While family and friends mourn the loss of a dear loved one, they celebrate her joyful reunion with so many of her loved ones that preceded her.

The family will receive friends at noon, with a celebration of her life beginning at 1pm, on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Rd., Richmond, VA 23229. Internment to immediately follow at Westhampton Memorial Park, 10000 Patterson Ave, Richmond, VA 23238.