Jewell Jean Kerce

On Saturday September 3, 2022, Jewell Jean Kerce age 91 of Maryville, TN went to be with the Lord.  She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt.  She was preceded in death by her most loved husband of more than 48 years, Wallace Odin Kerce. 

An avid reader, Jewell earned a master’s degree in education and spent many years as a teacher in the Wayne-Westland District as well as teaching as a dietitian.  Active in her local church most of her life, she volunteered in multiple departments, playing piano, teaching, both children and adults, and serving in the Ladies Ministries.  But Jewell was best known for her quiet demeanor and kind heart.  In her spare time, Jewell enjoyed sewing and reading; but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family.

Jewell had a wonderfully large family, which included 12 brothers and sisters.  She was preceded in death by Raymond Hensley, Mildred Hensley Norris, Alfreda Hensley Justice, Joy Hensley Middleton, and baby Martha Ann Hensley. Her surviving siblings are:  Ruby Hensley Simpson, Arthur Hensley (Virginia), Ernest Hensley (Joan), Fred Hensley (Shelva), Matraca Lee (Robert), David Hensley (Donna) and Robert Hensley (Brenda).  Also surviving are two children, Daryl Kerce (Terry), Denise Kerce Hembree (Timothy), grandchildren, Daryl Kerce Jr. (Debbie), Andrea Kerce, Allison Kerce Winnie (Daniel), Jewell Marie Hembree Colyer (Brandon). Jewell adored her eight great-grandchildren, Payton, Caleb, Nathan, Paisleigh, Elliot, Liam, Gemma and Bella Grace.  

The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM Saturday, September 10, 2022 at Smith West Chapel. The Funeral Service will follow at 12:00 PM with Rev. Timothy Teague officiating. Family and friends are invited to a luncheon at Maryville-Alcoa Church of God and will be followed by a Graveside Service on Saturday at 3:00 PM at Lakeview Cemetery, City Park Drive, Lenoir City, TN 37772. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFunerlandCrematon.com