Carl Lee Kearns

Carl Lee Kearns, age 72 of Fairborn, passed away, Wednesday, October 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Carl was born October 1, 1952, in Dayton, Ohio, the son of the late Howard W. and Ozie M. (Maxwell) Kearns.

Carl was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many. Carl retired from Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) after almost 33 years of combined service between active duty (USAF) and civil service. Carl’s interests were as diverse as his talents, from frequenting flea markets to his love for learning languages, such as German, Farsi, Thai, and Spanish!

To those who knew and loved Carl knew that he had a particular fondness for the Christmas season—being Santa Claus! He found joy in the red suit, the long white beard, and the message of love and peace that Christmas bears. He had a special talent for brightening any room, adding cheer, and laughter to children’s lives.

In his retirement his greatest gift was spending time with his family. His larger-than-life personality will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Carl is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Larry Kearns, Kenny Kearns; and nephew, “Little” Kenny. He is survived by his devoted wife of 23 years, Joetta Marie (Casebier) Kearns; daughter, Trisha Rak Kearns, stepchildren, Joseph (Courtney) Keaton, David Keaton, three grandchildren, Corey, Tiffany, Salvador; sister, Jean (Chris) Whitaker; many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Monday, November 4, 2024, at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, OH 45324. The family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M., until the time of service, Pastor Lowell Lay officiating. Burial with USAF military honors to follow at Valley View Memorial Gardens, Xenia, OH. Condolences may be made to the family at www.beltonstroup.com