Kerry was born on March 5, 1971, in Pontotoc, MS to Martha Johnson and the late Hayward Hobson. He was also raised by his step-father, the late Elzie Lee Johnson. Kerry professed a hope in Christ at an early age and gained his wings on January 7, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Kerry attended Pontotoc City Schools. He was a very hard worker who loved to do construction work and detail cars. He was the kind of person who never met a stranger. He had a laugh and smile that would light up a room. Kerry loved being outside and traveling. He also enjoyed reading his Bible.

Kerry leaves to cherish his memories: his mother, Martha Johnson (Tupelo); two sons: Dewayne and Cory Hardin; four sisters: Sharon Depriest (Tupelo), Chequitta Ivy (Boris) of Shannon, Veronica Johnson (Tupelo), and Peaches Bradley (Saltillo); two step-sisters: Ann Baker (Verona) and Stephanie Howard (New Albany); three aunts: Edna Hardin (Pontotoc) Jannie Berry (Tupelo), and Onie Mae Hardin (Pontotoc); one uncle: Grady Hardin (Tupelo); one grandson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; Fesser and Beatrice Hardin; four uncles: Reno Hardin, Harvey Hardin, Hilton Hardin, and Brady Hardin.