Katherine Tyler Kerns was born on May 26, 1960, and she passed away on July 14, 2026, after facing a prolonged illness with remarkable strength, grace, and dignity. She was the beloved daughter of Rose Tyler and Hansford D. Tyler, Jr., and lived a life filled with love, faith, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone around her.

Katherine was born and raised in Miami, a city she always held close to her heart. Some of her happiest childhood memories were of sailing at the Miami Yacht Club with her family and her father, with whom she shared a very close bond. She was an accomplished young sailor, winning multiple regattas. Her father affectionately called her “Princess,” which later became the name of her first sailboat.

She went on to earn an engineering degree at the University of Florida and began her career in engineering, where she showed the same determination and drive that characterized everything she did. Later, she transitioned into real estate so she could have a more flexible schedule and devote herself fully to being a mother to her son. Above all, Katherine was committed to raising Grant with strong values, independence, and self-sufficiency. She poured herself into his life, proudly supported his Boy Scout journey, served as an assistant scout leader, attended every camping trip, and helped guide him all the way to the rank of Eagle Scout.

Katherine was full of life, deeply caring, and truly the life of the party. She cherished her family, her friends, children, music, sailing, and dogs. Her Christian faith was an important part of her life, and she was known for her warmth, loyalty, and the many lasting friendships she made.

She is survived by her son, Grant Kerns, and his wife, Yuliana Kerns; her former husband, Noel Kerns; her sister, Mary-Knight Tyler, and her husband Greg Martinez; their children, Alexandria Martinez and her husband, James Saracini, and Tyler Martinez and his wife, Natasha Aguirre; and her brother, Hansford D Tyler, III, and his wife, Marjorie Tyler, and their daughter, Mary Katherine Tyler, and her husband, Zachary Jacobs, along with their son, Alden Jacobs.

She was also blessed with many close friends, especially Natalie Bouchard, Elisa Erickson, and Keri Schuller.

Known lovingly as Aunt Kat Kat, she was adored by her nieces, nephews, and the countless children whose lives she touched. Katherine also treasured her dogs over the years, including Baron, Princess, Sidney, Duke and her dog nephew, Blackjack.

Her life was one of love, strength, and joy, and she will be deeply missed.