Vicki Jean Kernan

She was born on September 9, 1953, in East St. Louis, IL to the late Carroll Eugene Hornbeck and Mildred Laverne (nee Stoner) Murphy.

Vicki was a woman whose warmth, creativity, and humor left a lasting mark on everyone she met. A gifted cosmetologist and devoted homemaker, she poured her heart into her work and her home. She loved to sing karaoke, dance, crochet, sew, and bake cakes that became family favorites. Cooking for those she loved was one of her greatest joys, and her kitchen was always filled with the smell of something delicious.

She and her husband were married on February 15, a day later than planned since Valentine’s Day was already booked. Still, they always celebrated their love on the 14th, turning it into a tradition uniquely their own.

Known for her loving and supportive nature, she never gave up in the face of challenges. She lived life with fire and laughter, and wasn’t afraid to show her playful side — often marked with a quick smile and a flipped bird that became her signature gesture.

Family was the center of her world, and she gave of herself endlessly. She will be remembered not only for her talents and her giving spirit, but also for the fierce love and joy she carried into every moment.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded by a sister, Gina Mattison.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, David Alan Kernan, Sr.; three children: Brenda Varnum of New Baden, IL, David Alan (Kaitlin Jones) Kernan, Jr. of Alton, IL, and Amanda Kernan of New Athens, IL; eight grandchildren: Allan (Amber) Bernhardt, Brendan (Rylee) Bernhardt, Blake (Julia) Bernhardt, David (Jessica) Kernan III, McKenzie (Hunter) Gann, Aspen Kernan, Bryson Kernan, and Blayne Kernan; five great-grandchildren: Baylor Bernhardt, Bennett Bernhardt, Ira Gann, Barrett Kernan, and Brayden Kernan; and three brothers: Leslie Hornbeck, Terry (Sue) Hornbeck, and Carroll Hornbeck.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Lake View Funeral Home in Fairview Heights, IL.

Funeral service will follow at 12 p.m.

Final resting will be followed by the service at Lake View Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights, IL.

Contributions in Vicki’s memory may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children.