Michael Dean Kern

Michael Dean “Mickey” Kern, 80, peacefully entered his heavenly home on March 13, 2026, at Randolph Hospice House, surrounded by his loving children.

Born on June 22, 1945, to the late Tim Tewey Kern and Dorothy Irene Saunders Kern, Mickey grew up in Montgomery County and graduated from East Montgomery High School in 1963. A gifted athlete, he excelled in baseball, basketball, and football, with his baseball talent drawing the attention of scouts from the Minnesota Twins. He later continued his studies at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.

In December 1965, Mickey married the love of his life, Nancy Carol Beane. Together they shared 60 years of marriage and built a strong and loving family. He worked diligently throughout his life, serving for many years as a supervisor at B.B. Walker Shoe Company in Asheboro, while also taking on night watchman roles and work in the cleaning industry.

Mickey’s deep love for sports remained a constant joy. A devoted fan of the North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball team and the New York Yankees, he also enjoyed collecting baseball cards and trying his luck with lottery tickets. Above all, those who knew him will remember his quick wit and natural comedic gift. A self-made humorist with a warm personality, he had a special ability to make people laugh and brighten every room he entered.

Family was the heart of Mickey’s world. He cherished his roles as husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Beane Kern; his three daughters, Tammy Godwin (Terry), Lisa King, and Michelle Luther (Michael), all of Asheboro; eight grandchildren: David King, Carolyn Garner (Dustin), Allison Godwin, Patricia Pecorella (Joey), Faith King, Brandy Luther, Brittny Vaughn (Jeremy), and Adrienne Luther; eleven great-grandchildren; and his beloved grand-dog, Pookie. He was also joyfully anticipating the arrival of his first great-great-grandchild. He is further survived by five sisters: Judy McCreary, Doris Welch, Jeanne Black, Nell Daves, and Terry Parsons.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Silvia Chavez; his brother, Tim Kern; and his beloved grandson, Chad King.