Betty Kern died peacefully on May 13, 2017 after a courageous struggle with Parkinson’s Disease. Betty was born September 24, 1938 in Galveston, Texas. She was 78. She is survived by her loving husband, Donald Kern, her son, David Glenn Kern and his wife, Tracey, her daughters, Tracy Elizabeth Kern and Larissa Kern Reynolds and her husband, Dennis; seven grandchildren: James, Alexis, and David Kern; Alex and Emily Reynolds; and Jonathon and Allie Hidalgo. Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Elizabeth Uroda, and her brother, Walter Uroda, Jr.
Betty was a graduate of Ursuline Academy and then received her Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics from the University of Texas at Austin. She married her college sweetheart who remained her partner through countless adventures over their 56 years of marriage.
In her professional career, Betty was the head Acquisitions Librarian for the Louisiana Supreme Court Law Library for over 20 years. In 1991, she coordinated the National Convention for the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL) in New Orleans exercising her social finesse to influence the librarian community. Her irresistible charisma also served her well as the President of the New Orleans chapter of the AALL, chairperson for multiple committees for the Southeast chapter of the AALL and President of the University of New Orleans Women’s Club. Upon retirement, Betty and Don moved to the French Quarter where she continued to serve others as the President of Patio Planners and Vice President of the French Quarter Citizens group.
Betty thoroughly enjoyed entertaining friends and family, riding in the Krewe of Iris, and supporting the arts as a passionate lover of the ballet, opera, and theatre. She traveled to all 50 states and 74 countries across 6 Continents. Her adventures included an African safari, the Taj Mahal, whitewater rafting, and scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. However, above all she was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother for which the above pursuits were always a distant second.
Family and friends will forever remember her radiant smile, quick wit, and loving spirit.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral services on Thursday, May 18, 2017 at 1:00pm at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, New Orleans. Visitation will begin at 11:00am until service time.
A private interment at Hope Mausoleum will occur at a later date.
Donations can be made in Betty’s name at The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, www.michaeljfox.org/donate.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries.
4 Entries
May 18, 2017
Matthew Morales
I sadly never had the honor of meeting you, but I have meet the fruits of your life. Your son David has left improved my wife and my life in so many ways with his friend ship in guidance. In knowing your legacy I know that the world is a poorer for your departure but richer for the marks you have left on it.
May 17, 2017
Robin Follma-Otta
Much love to you all, Don. Betty was a beautiful, charming and dynamic lady. She will be in our hearts always! Love the Follman Family
May 16, 2017
Becky Corbett
Daddy Kern, Dave, Trac, Ris and all of the family: Sending the warmest hugs to all. Your Mama will forever remain in my heart. Hard to believe we have known each other since 7th grade. Sure will miss her smile and graciousness. Healing thoughts, prayers and love to all. -Becky
May 15, 2017
Jessica Morales
I may not have ever met you but I have met your son David. The man you raised has had such a monumental influence in the lives of my family. Your influence in his life made him compassionate and hardworking. He came to my family in a moment of great need with little thought of himself. I don't know if his laugh is like yours or if his taste in great wine comes from you but I do know his love for family far reaching. Because of your influence in his life has made him the man who has so greatly influenced mine and I thank you for that. My prayers to you and your family that they are comforted by wonderful memories with you.
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