Richard Kersh

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Richard Edward Kersh, age 85, of Neosho, MO passed away on March 13, 2024.

Richard was born in Tulsa, OK on July 21, 1938, to Edward T. Kersh and Frances W. Kersh (Algood). After graduating from high school in 1958, he enlisted in the US Army where he served in the 101st Airborne division and fought in the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged from the US Army in 1961. Richard was the Executive Vice President of Prestera Trucking since 1991.

He was married to his wife of 65 years, Judy M. Kersh (Alms) on January 31, 1959, in Miami, OK.

Richard was a Scoutmaster in the Joplin area for several years. He served as a past president of the Munitions Carriers Conference. Richard was also a member of the Joplin Masonic Lodge 335 and a 32nd degree Shriner.

Richard is survived by his wife Judy Kersh of Neosho, MO; two sons Richard (Titia) Kersh of Granby, MO, and Todd (Sarah) Kersh of Neosho, MO; his grandchildren Emily (Roberto) Trejo, Elliott (Bailey) Kersh, Jordan (Hannah) Miller, and Joshua (Bethany) Miller; his sister Suzie (Larry) Jackson; and five great-grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Frances Kersh, and his sisters Patsy Duncan and Betty Harris.

Graveside services will be held at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Springfield, MO on Friday March 29, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at the Kersh residence on Saturday March 30, 2024, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation in honor of Richard.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory, Joplin.