On July 21, 1947, Kerry was born in Peoria, Illinois. His family moved to California when he was a young child, and he grew up in West Covina, California.

After graduating from high school, Kerry proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Army. Following his return home, Kerry raised his family while living in several different states before ultimately falling in love with Michigan and making it his home.

Kerry had a passion for gardening and landscaping and took great pride in caring for his yard. When he wasn’t working in his gardens, you could often find him antique shopping, attending auctions, or enjoying one of his favorite pastimes—riding his motorcycle.

Above all else, Kerry’s greatest love was his family. He is survived by his five children and their families: daughter Kelly and Chris Ayers; daughter Jennifer and Nathan Kompier; daughter Audrey and Dewayne Roberson; daughter Stacy Woodard/Hembree; and son Kyle Waughop.

He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family, including:

Kelly and Chris Ayers’ family: Michael, Jeff, Jeff, and Ryan and Ashley Ayers and their children, Zoe and Ethan; and Sean and Kori Ayers and their children, Eli and Liam.

Jennifer and Nathan Kompier’s family: Brittany Newton and Sonny Gibson and their children, Hunter and Walker; Jessica and Cody Mays and their children, Kinsley and Kasey; and Mason Kompier.

Audrey and Dewayne Roberson’s family: Brailon, Braxton, and Lauryn Vaughn, her significant other Chad, and their son, Chad Jr.

Stacy Woodard/Hembree’s family: Samuel, Kaylynn, Tyler and Destiny Woodard and their children, Elijah and Aiden; Jordan Woodard, his significant other Naomi Lemberger, and their children, Ryder, Dixon, and Dale.

Kerry’s family also includes his two beloved dogs, affectionately known as “the boys,” Rascal and Koda.

Kerry passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, August 16, surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Allik Greer; his parents, Clyde and Evelyn (Baker) Waughop; and his sister, Diane.

Kerry’s family will celebrate his life and memory among the gardens he loved so dearly at a later date. Hutchins Funeral Home is assisting the family with cremation.

Those wishing to offer a message of comfort to Kerry’s family are invited to do so at hutchinsfuneral.com.