of West Memphis, AR

October 7, 1946 - March 7, 2026

Mrs. Diane Estelle Kerly, age 79, of West Memphis, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026. She was surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived and a family she cherished deeply.

Diane was born on October 7, 1946, in Union City, Tennessee, to Sonny Lee Cloar and Margaret Cloar (née Ford). From an early age, Diane was known for her warm spirit, strong will, and the deep love she carried for her family, qualities that would define her throughout her life.

Home and family were always at the center of Diane's world. She believed that nothing brought people together quite like a home-cooked meal, and her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aromas of dishes prepared with love. Whether gathered around the table or sitting together in the living room, her family knew that Diane's greatest joy was simply having everyone close.

She also loved playing card games with family and friends. Diane was famously competitive, and as she liked to joke, ''As long as she was winning,'' everyone had a great time. Those moments of laughter and friendly rivalry created memories her family will treasure forever.

Diane was a faithful member of First Assembly of God in West Memphis. Her faith guided her life and provided strength and comfort to both her and those around her. One of Diane's most beloved gifts was her storytelling. She had a remarkable way of bringing stories to life, capturing the attention of everyone in the room. Her family will always remember the joy, laughter, and colorful memories she shared through the many stories she told over the years.

Diane was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cecil Kerley, who passed away in 2002 after 38 wonderful years of marriage. Their reunion is surely a joyful one.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, Sonny Lee Cloar and Margaret Cloar (née Ford), and her sisters, Cynthia Ross and Tammy Drucker.

She leaves behind a loving family who will continue to honor her memory: her daughter, Jennifer Stamm and husband Jeff; her son, David Kerley and his wife Carla; her cherished grandchildren, Megan Bennett (Tyler) and Nathan Kerley (Anna Kathleen); and her adored great-grandchildren, Sadie Grace Bennett, Elijah Cole Bennett, Karley Jayne Bennett, and Parker Ann Kerley.

Diane's legacy is one of love, laughter, faith, and family. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the stories shared, the meals enjoyed together, and the strong family bonds she nurtured throughout her life.

 

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