Neva Jean Kerce, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, in Rome, Georgia, her lifelong home, at the age of 95. Born on July 4, 1931, in Rome, Georgia, Neva dedicated her life to her family, her faith and her community.

Neva was the beloved daughter of the late Virgil Oscar Bollen and Ida Mae Knight Bollen. She was also preceded in death by her cherished husband, Max Lowery Kerce, whose memory she carried with her always and brothers: Robert, Ebb, Bobby and Tommy Bollen; and a sister, Gervine Garrett.

Neva valued the opportunity to provide. She embarked on a long career as a seamstress with Champion Garments, where her attention to detail and dedication were deeply appreciated by all who worked with her.

Her devotion extended beyond her work life; Neva was a longstanding member of Dykes Creek Baptist Church and attended Barnsley Chapel at Woodlands. Her faith was a guiding force, and the church communities were dear to her heart.

Known for her kind and thoughtful nature, Neva loved others deeply, particularly her family. She delighted in spending time with her loved ones and cherished every moment shared. Keeping her mind active was important to her; she enjoyed completing word searches and was always eager to stay busy and engaged in a fun but competitive game of “Bingo”, Chinese Checkers or Shopping. She laughed and smiled frequently and wasn’t afraid to ask somebody anything. If she liked something you were wearing or had, she wouldn’t hesitate asking for it, you might think she was kidding but she was serious.

Neva’s legacy continues in the lives of her surviving family. She is survived by her daughters, Wanda Kerce and her husband, Ricky and Linda Dockery and her husband, Doakie. Her love and guidance will also be remembered by her grandchildren: Stacy (Daniel) Payne, Shelby Brooks, Maggie Stansell, Kari (Shane) Meers, and Cody (Lindsey) Kerce. Her great-grandchildren, Nickolas Smith, Zack (Ashley) Payne, Jesi (Jordan) Brooks, Sara Beth (Landon) Price, Carson (Coppi) Kirby, Max Stansell, Tate Kerce and Mallory Meers; great-great grandchildren: Owen Smith, Norah Brooks, Emerson Price, Everhett Price and Boone Price—carry forward her enduring spirit and affection; sisters, Betty Ann (Jerry) Busby and Cornelia ‘Boots’ (Buddy) Smith.

A Funeral service for Neva will be held Monday, July 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Chapel of Salmon Funeral Home with her Pastor. Rev. Lurlene Sims and Preacher Ricky Studdard officiating the service and her nephew, Michael Bollen offering special music. A private committal and interment will take place at East View Cemetery with Cody Kerce, Tate Kerce, Jordan Brooks, Nick Smith, Carson Kirby and Landon Price serving as pallbearers. Ricky, Doakie, Daniel and Shane will serve as honorary pallbearers. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 3:00 PM until the service hour.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Neva’s honor. The family would like to thank the staff of Pruitt Health Care, Brookdale and Riverwood for their compassionate care and always loving her and accepting her humor where she made many friends.

Neva Jean Kerce’s life was one of commitment, warmth, and caring for others. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her, and her legacy of devotion and love will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

Salmon Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve and care for Neva Jean Kerce and her family.