John Kersey

John Albert Kersey, age 87, of Milford, OH, formerly of Wilmington, died April 10, 2026, at Hospice of Cincinnati, surrounded by his family.

John was born September 28, 1938, in Wilmington, son of the late Albert E. and Phyllis G. Kersey. 

He graduated in 1956 from Wilmington High School. John’s life was to a large extent, his family and his faith. He was intensely devoted to both. In his words “I know of nothing on this earth more beautiful than a close, caring, not by any means perfect, family. I had the privilege of growing up in one and having one of my own.”

John enjoyed spending his entire career with Cincinnati Milacron which provided opportunity to travel worldwide and also to build many treasured friendships. A gifted natural athlete, he was always willing to spend his time volunteer coaching youth sports as a young father, or dedicated time to play with his children as they grew, or later in life with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He greatly valued and invested in his family and friends. He believed “It’s all about relationships. We’re here to have relationships” and his actions exhibited this daily. John’s personal faith was lived out in his daily life in a very visible manner. His example and godly character will remain an inspiration to his family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his wife of over 52 years, Joy Leaverton Kersey,

who passed away September 30, 2008. In addition to his wife, Jeanette Dehan Kersey, 

John is survived by his children, Joette (Kip) Collins of Wilmington, Jeff (Pam) Kersey of Cincinnati, and Jay (Lynne) Kersey of Maineville, seven grandchildren, Katie (Robert) Ledbetter, Chase (Lilly) Collins, Hannah (Steven) Hardy, Jessica (T.J. Wagner) Kersey, Joshua (Cyndie) Kersey, Katlyn Kersey, Kurt (Kaci) Kersey, eleven great-grandchildren, sister Kay Kersey, and brothers Ron, Don and Paul Kersey, and many nieces and nephews. 

He also was preceded in death by brother Roger, sister Norma Jo and Kathryn Markins. 

He is also survived by Jeanette’s children Elaine (Joe) Meineke and Alison (Micah McFadden) Dehan, and grandchildren Alex (Danielle) Meineke, Kyle, Jared and Nathan Meineke, and 2 great-grandchildren, Oliver and Abby.

Memorial services celebrating John’s life will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Dove Church Wilmington, 1499 Rombach Ave., Wilmington, with Dave Hinman officiating. Visitation will be from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. followed by funeral services with burial in Sugar Grove Cemetery, Wilmington. 

Memorial contributions in his memory may be made in his honor to Back2Back Ministries, 8118 Corporate Way #200, Mason, OH 45040 or Hospice of Cincinnati Blue Ash, 4310 Cooper Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242, or to a charity of the donor’s choice. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Littleton Funeral Home, 104 N. Jackson Street, Sabina. For more information visit the funeral home’s website at www.littletonfuneralhome.com.