Barbara Jean Kerl

Barbara Jean Brakebill Kerl, age 81 of Niota went home to be with the Lord, Saturday, March 18, 2023 at her residence. A native and lifelong resident of McMinn County, she was the daughter of the late Bea McCarter and Reed Brakebill.  She was a Christian and a member of East Niota Baptist Church. Barbara had many interests, but her loves were cooking , dancing and growing tomatoes. She was proud of her title, "Barbara Jean the Dancing Machine." She managed the McMinn County Farmers Market ,and was known to give away  tomatoes to those who could not afford to buy them. No one ever came out of her home without a warm hug and full belly. She was preceded in death by, sister, June Hardy; brother Paul Brakebill, and cousin Don Humphrey. 
Survivors include, two sisters, Linda and John Hood of Atlanta, Ken and Betty Knirr of Niota; one daughter, Marlene and Neal McWhorter of Atlanta; son, Chris Kerl of Pennsylvania and ex-husband and the love of her life, Peter Kerl of Pennsylvania; 11 nieces and nephews; one cousin, Janice Davis of Knoxville; one grandchild, Julie and Brian Berger of Atlanta. Four great-grandchildren, Daniel Berger, Giovanni Fournie, Rileigh and Bradie Berger. Our eternal gratitude to all the Hospice CNA's and nurses Stephanie and Carrie who loved and took care of Barbara. As Barbara always said, "It's not good bye, but until we meet again!" We love you BB!
Funeral services will be 7:00 pm Saturday, March 25,  2023 in the chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home with the Rev. Ken Knirr officiating. The graveside will be 10 am Sunday, March 26, 2023 at McMinn Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends from 5:30-7:00 pm Saturday before the service at the funeral home. Those unable to attend may send condolences to https://www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/barbara-kerl Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home will be in charge of the arrangements.