Jess was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee and was a 1969 graduate of Tyner High School. He was a member of the Plumbers Steamfitters Local # 43. Jess owned and operated Jess Kerley Heating and Air for over 31 years. He was a member of Mile Straight Baptist Church for over 37 years and taught the Crusaders Sunday School Class for the last 25 years. Jess loved the Lord, his church and was the jack of all trades at the church. He and his wife are members of the Global Faith Missions and they served as project partners since 2012.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jesse Kerley, Jr. and a brother, Robert Bernard Kerley.
Jess is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Anne Kerley; children, Chrissy Essex, Jesse “Boone” (Kat) Kerley, IV, Stacey (Scott) Bales, Dawn (Benny) Capps, Matt Kerley and Amy Kerley; 7 grandchildren, Mellissa Paradis, Faith Stover, Cheyenne and Summer Essex, Austin and Thomas “Tab” Bales, and Sabrina Cupelli; 4 great grandchildren; mother, Betty Kerley; sister, Katrina (Gary) Dantzler; many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 5 pm on Monday, January 11 at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.
A Celebration of Jess’s life will follow at 5 pm on Monday at the North Chapel with Pastor Tommy Goss officiating.
Burial will be private for the family at Hamilton Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mile Straight Baptist Church, Crusaders Class Mission Funds, 8448 Springfield Road, Soddy Daisy, TN 37379.
If you aren’t comfortable in attending the service you may join us live for the service at https://www.facebook.com/chattanooganorthchapel/
We respectfully request that "social distancing", wearing masks at all times, and all CDC measures be followed at the funeral home and cemetery.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.
