Virginia Kernodle Wilson

Virginia Ann Kernodle Wilson passed away on August 7, 2026 after a hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer. Virginia was born in Bethel Springs, TN on December 18, 1942 to George and Melissa Kernodle. She was the first of four girls. When the family moved to Kenton,TN Virginia began her academic career in the Kenton schools and graduated as Valedictorian in 1960. After graduation she enrolled in the School of X-Ray Technicians at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, TN. She spent her life in the medical profession serving others through her work as an X-Ray Tech and eventually as the Director of the Diagnostic Department at the Baptist Hospitals in Union City, Oxford and Columbus, MS and at Baptist Central in Memphis. While she accomplished much during her long career, her greatest fulfillment was raising her sons, Andrew (Kern) and George. She sat through countless football practices and never missed a ball game. A fantastic cook, Mom always cooked dinner no matter how busy she was and always made dessert first. She Had the gifts of Hope and Encouragement with both family and coworkers.

In work and at home she used her gift of encouragement. She spent countless hours talking to people who were facing an uncertain medical diagnosis. No matter how severe, she would always listen and give hope, reminding them that we are not in control and that God has a plan and to trust in Him. She was loved by everyone she met and most of all by her son George She is survived by her sons, grandchildren Dylan Wilson of Houston, TX, Courtney Lara (Alex) of Corona, CA, Elizabeth, Hattie and George, Jr Wilson of Memphis, TN, and one great-grandchild Alivia Wilson of Houston, TX. She is also survived by her sisters Barbara Hunt and Juanita Clark, her nieces and nephews Rhonda Poore (Michael), Chad Hunt (Christy), Celina Johnson (Kevin), Brent Thorton, and Chris Sims (Hollye), and her best friend Evelyn Rodenberger. 

Family and friends are invited to honor Virginia’s memory at several gatherings on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Visitation for Ms. Wilson will take place on Saturday, August 22, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Karnes & Son Funeral Home in Kenton, Tennessee. Due to extreme heat, a committal service will take place inside, at Karnes and Son Funeral Home in Kenton. Burial will immediately follow at Sunnyside Cemetery in Kenton. To further celebrate her extraordinary life, all are welcome to attend a special dinner at First Baptist Church Kenton, after graveside services are completed.