Darrell Spencer Kearns, 77, of Pacific died March 30, 2024, at his home. Mr. Kearns was a graduate of Crystal City High School and he owned and operated Tri-City True Value Hardware in Crystal City for more than 20 years. He enjoyed playing fastpitch softball for Wayne Trask/Crystal Tavern, Pepsi and True Value Hardware. He coached many of his daughter’s softball teams with his friend, Terry House, including the area's first young ladies' travel softball teams, the Royals, with longtime friend, Gene Doyle. He would later retire from Walmart after serving more than 20 years in management. Born August 16, 1946, in Bonne Terre, he was the son of the late Viola (Gilliam) Madison and Merlin D. Kearns.
He is survived by his wife: Juanita (Caby); a daughter: Carrie (Joe) Davis of Festus; a son: Spencer (Michele) Kearns of Festus; a stepson: Jack Eason of South County; a stepdaughter: Jacquelyn Eason of Villa Ridge; three sisters: Leila (Ron) Ruess of Pevely, Rebecca (Daniel) Ziegelmeyer of Festus and Joani (Jeff) Jones of Festus; and seven grandchildren: Grant and Lexi Flotron, Livi and Gehrig Kearns, Ciara Juengain, Daisa Smith and Jada Eason.
He was preceded in death by two grandsons: Charles Logan and Chase Underwood; and a nephew: David Tucker.
A memorial gathering is scheduled from 4 p.m. until funeral services at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 11 at The Chapel at Victory Farms, 9299 Church Drive, in Pevely, officiated by Pastor Steve Williams. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.