Naomi “Fern” (Withers) Heyman, 82, Edwards (formerly of Linn) passed away at 11:23 a.m., Friday, June 23, 2023, at Lake Regional Health Center.
She was born Oct. 25, 1940, to the late Lawrence and Pauline (Phillips) Withers in St. Louis.
She was united in marriage to Edward “Rick” Heyman June 11, 1973, in St. Louis.
Fern operated Green Gables Restaurant in Linn with her husband from 1977 to 1988. Later she worked for Casey’s gas station, the cafeteria at State Technical College and the deli in Thriftway.
Fern was preceded in death by husband, Rick; parents, Lawrence and Pauline; son, Woody Kemp; daughter-in-law, Lana Kemp; great-granddaughter, Ariana Johnson; brothers, Ralph, Richard and Larry Withers; and sisters, Bea Jones and Hazel Warren.
She is survived by sons, Kenny Kemp and wife Jeri of Linn, Jeff Kemp and wife Carla of Edwards and John Kemp and wife Lisa of Guthrie, Okla.; daughter, Christine Redman of Lake Ozark; daughter-in-law, Barb Finley and husband Jay of Holts Summit; honorary daughter, Brandy Kempker; grandchildren, Derek and Marc Kemp, Deanna Redman, Rita Kemp, Jennifer Johnson, David Redman, Jessica Gui, Jacquelin Lynch, Samuel Pierce and Lee, Grant and Paige Benson; great-grandchildren, Jaycie Lucero, Gabriel Johnson, Jasmine Kemp, Serenity Lynch and Vance Kemp; sisters, Evelyn Perkins, Iva Bower and Sue Stowe and husband John; sister-in-law, Ruth Withers; and many nieces and nephews.
In keeping with Fern’s wishes, she will be cremated. A celebration of life and potluck dinner will be held starting at 4 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 12, at Ely Manor.
Memorial contributions suggested to St. Jude Research Hospital or the charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Morton Chapel in Linn.
