Sam W. Kerr, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, after a brave and lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 81 years old.

Born Sammy Warren Kerr on January 14, 1945, in Gravette, Arkansas, he was the son of Kenneth Warren Kerr and Ruth Edwards Kerr. He was the third of four children and grew up valuing faith, family, education and service—principles that guided him throughout his life.

He pursued higher education with passion and determination, earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas in 1967 and his master’s degree in 1968. He later completed his Ph.D. at Kansas State University in 1974, setting the foundation for a lifelong career in education.

He was married to Sandy Kerr for 43 years, sharing a loving partnership marked by devotion, friendship, and family. Together, they built a life centered on faith, education, and time spent with those they loved.

After a year of teaching at Wichita State University, he spent 35 years at Moore Norman Technology Center, where he made a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. He was known for his dedication, integrity, and commitment to helping others succeed.

Sam was an active member of McFarlin United Methodist Church and Kiwanis, reflecting his deep faith and dedication to community service. He believed strongly in giving back and investing in future generations. Sam also remained active in his AGR fraternity, regularly attending their annual reunions.

He greatly enjoyed traveling—both with family and close friends. These trips created lasting memories filled with laughter and companionship. He also cherished regular trips and hosting annual Fourth of July celebrations at their Lakehouse in Bella Vista, Arkansas; a place that held special meaning for him.

A lover of simple joys, his favorite treats were ice cream and milkshakes, and he especially enjoyed making homemade ice cream for family and friends. Annual family trips with his children and grandchildren were some of his greatest pleasures, with memorable trips to Niagara Falls, Hawaii, Turks and Caicos, Disney World, Branson, and Alaska.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Eugene Kerr; and his son, Clark Warren Kerr.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy Kerr; his brother, Jim Kerr and wife Dana; his sister, Marlene Bush; Sandy’s sister Sharri Clark and husband Steve; and his five children and six grandchildren: Chris Kerr and his wife Tanya, and their children Barrett, Isabella, and Marshall; Drew Sher and his daughter Addison; Rob Sher and his wife Heather, and their children Ellison and Sutton; Sarah Kerr; and Kristen Sher. He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Sam will be remembered for his gentle spirit, quiet strength, unwavering dedication to family, tradition and lifelong commitment to education and service. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched as a granddad, father, husband, and mentor.

There will be a visitation on Monday March 23rd from 6:00-8:00 pm at Tribute Memorial Care with a memorial service to be held at McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 10:00 AM.

In Lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation or the McFarlin food pantry.