Kerry Earle

Kerry Bryce Earle, 71, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2025. Although his body grew weary with every dialysis treatment and hospital visit, his spirit remained committed to survival. He fought a brave battle to stay alive for his family and friends.

Kerry was born on November 11, 1953, to Louis B. and Francis “Louise” Earle and grew up in northwest Wichita on North Arkansas Street. He graduated from Heights High School in 1972 and from Wichita State University in 1976 with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Political Science, graduating cum laude. He also pursued graduate studies toward an MA in Communications.

Kerry worked a variety of jobs throughout his life, including at Coleman, the old downtown Holiday Inn, and Cessna Aircraft, where he served as an engineer for over 40 years before retiring in 2014.

He loved collecting vintage beer cans and was rarely seen without his signature aviator sunglasses and ball cap. A lover of classic rock, he especially loved Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, and The Doors, and played guitar in his youth. Kerry enjoyed playing Scattegories with family, watching Kansas City Chiefs games, playing trivia games, and quizzing his children on whatever song was playing on the radio. He cherished time with his children and grandchildren. A foodie, he loved good BBQ, carrot cake, and taking his family to restaurants. He was known for his quick wit and ability to make everyone laugh. 

Like his beloved mother, he adored animals—especially cats—and always had a furry companion (or several) by his side. He was passionate about helping animals and often donated to cat charities, including the Wichita Animal Action League and Kansas Humane Society. Kerry also loved to travel and spent time in Japan and the Philippines, where he met his wife, Jocelyn, who remained with him until his final days. Before his illness, he enjoyed attending church with her. 

Above all, Kerry was the kind of person you could always count on—no matter what he was doing, he was there when you needed him. He will be deeply missed by every family member, friend, coworker, and neighbor who were fortunate to know him.

Kerry is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Steve Earle. He is survived by his wife, Jocelyn Earle; children, Kara Earle, Sara Earle, and Kyle (Kirstin) Earle; sister, Linda Gregory; grandchildren, Zak DeFever, Sofia (Elijah D’Arelli) DeFever, and Jack Schroeder; and great-grandson, Gianni D’Arelli.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

A service celebrating Kerry’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 3, at Broadway Mortuary. Donations be made in Kerry’s memory to the Wichita Animal Action League (https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/wichita-animal-action-league/general-online-giving-form).