Born in Laurens County he was a son of the late Boyce and Janie Kernells Madden. He was a devoted husband, father, and granddad. He was of the Baptist Faith. He was a Master Mason and Shriner and was retired owner and operator of Kernells Auto Sales.

Surviving are a son, Lawrence Michael “Mike” Kernells of Hodges, a daughter, Mot  Smothers (Johnny) of Donalds, three grandchildren, Michelle Millwood (Joseph), Laurie Hurley (Danny), and John Smothers, five great-grandchildren, Cayden Kernells, Scott Smothers, Justin Phillips, Michael Smothers, and Grace Boland, and four great-great-grandchildren, Josie, Colton, Evan, and Asher.

In addition to his wife and parents he was predeceased by a brother, Billy Ray Madden and a sister, Dorothy Nabors.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Greenwood Memorial Gardens Mausoleum with Rev. Paul Cooper officiating.

The family will be at their respective homes and will speak to friends after the service at the cemetery. In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be left at www.ParkerWhitePruitt.com