Kerry Ann Stratton, a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend remembered for her generosity, compassion and enduring warmth, died on August 22, 2026, at the age of 52 following a courageous battle with ALS.
Born on January 23, 1974, Kerry built her life around the people she loved. According to a tribute from her family, ALS gradually took away many of her physical abilities, but it never diminished her spirit, kindness or trademark smile.
Family remained at the heart of Kerry’s life. She was especially proud of her son, Wyatt Wilkerson, and cherished her role as a grandmother to Isla and Stone. Her granddaughter held a particularly treasured place in her heart and brought her immense happiness.
Kerry also maintained a close relationship with her father, Kenny Stratton, who remained one of her strongest sources of support. Those who knew her remembered someone who routinely placed the needs of others ahead of her own and offered generosity without expecting anything in return.
For 13 years, Kerry worked at Fellowship General Baptist Church, where her professional life grew into something much more meaningful. The relationships she developed there became like an extended family, making her eventual departure from the work she loved particularly painful after ALS forced her to step away.
The support of the church community remained deeply meaningful to Kerry and her family throughout her illness. Prayers, encouragement and acts of kindness helped sustain the family during a difficult chapter of her life.
Even as ALS affected her ability to communicate, Kerry continued finding ways to express herself. After losing her voice, her smile and a reassuring thumbs-up became familiar ways of letting those around her know she was still present and connected to the people she loved.
She is survived by her son, parents, siblings, grandchildren, nephews, step-grandfather and special friend, Chad Montague, along with other relatives and loved ones who will carry her memory forward.
A memorial visitation will be held August 26 from noon to 1 p.m. at Fellowship General Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff. A memorial service will follow, with burial at City Cemetery.
For those who knew Kerry, her death represents a profound loss, but her life also leaves behind an example of courage and unconditional love. Through the years she spent caring for her family, building friendships and serving her church community, she demonstrated a generosity of spirit that remained present even during the most difficult moments.
Kerry Ann Stratton will be remembered not simply for the illness she fought, but for the person she remained throughout it — a loving mother and grandmother, a loyal friend, a devoted daughter and a woman whose smile continued to communicate strength when words were no longer possible.
