Mary Nell Kern was born on January 9, 1949, in Hickman Mills, Missouri. She was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and friend. She passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025, surrounded by her children.

Mary Nell married the love of her life, Joseph Michael Kern, Jr., in 1975 and together they raised three beautiful children while residing in the Northeast neighborhood of Kansas City.  While working at Hallmark, Mary Nell volunteered teaching art at Holy Cross Catholic School. Once her children were grown, she continued her devotion to the Northeast neighborhood by serving as a school crossing guard.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Joseph Kern Jr.;  and her parents, William and Dolores McGee. She is survived by a family who adored her: her children Shannon Kelley, Heather (Kenny) Hook and Shane Kern; and grandchildren: Hunter Capps and Maximus Hook.

Mary Nell's family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Wexford Place and Shalom Hospice for their support and attentive care.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, Missouri, where Mary Nell and Joseph will be laid to rest together.