Saida Kerley

Funeral services for Saida Kerley will be conducted at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Saulters Moore Funeral Home Chapel with Father Tomasz Golab officiating. Interment will follow in the St. Elizabeth Cemetery in Carson. Mrs. Kerley, age 91, entered into the eternal rest of her Lord early Monday morning, September 15, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family. Saulters Moore Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at 3:00 pm, with the Rosary Prayer Service beginning at 2:30 pm at Saulters Moore Funeral Home.

Mrs. Kerley will be carried to her final resting place by those honored to serve as pallbearers, including Kevin Sylvest, Mark Yawn, Marty Kerley, Mason Yawn, Mike Yawn, and Tyler Matthews.

Saida Kerley, a beloved native of Mexico and cherished member of Jefferson Davis County, was born on April 20, 1934, in Tampico, Mexico to Eric and Adela Cruz Ruud. Saida's journey led her across borders and into the hearts of many. Following her family's migration, she settled in New Orleans, Louisiana, where her life took a transformative turn when she met the love of her life, R.E. Kerley. While living in New Orleans, she worked for the Wembley Tie Company, known for producing high-end men's neckties. Later, she returned to her husband's family roots in Jefferson Davis County in 1985, where she dedicated herself to food services at Carver Elementary School, making a positive impact on the lives of the children she served.

Saida was a woman of remarkable talents and skills. Her family fondly remembers her as an accomplished seamstress whose creativity brought beauty into their lives. Whether crafting exquisite draperies or designing stunning clothing without the aid of patterns, her artistry was a testament to her dedication and craft. Beyond her sewing prowess, she was also a fabulous cook. Adapting to her husband's Southern preferences, she mastered country cooking, creating a warm and inviting kitchen that became a gathering place for loved ones. Every Sunday, her home was filled with the aromas of her cooking, featuring delightful dishes such as her dressing and goat cheese dressing—a delicacy with Norwegian roots—alongside her delectable Fiska Balls (Fiskbullar), a Scandinavian treat made from minced white fish and served in a savory broth. On special occasions, she would proudly prepare traditional dishes from her native Mexico, treating her family to her famous Tamales.

In addition to her culinary and sewing skills, Saida loved the outdoors. She found joy in working with flowers and cultivated a bountiful garden, which not only thrived under her care but also provided her family with a wealth of canned vegetables that were enjoyed throughout the year. Mrs. Kerley was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Eric and Adela Ruud; her husband, R.E. Kerley; 2 sisters, and a brother.

Her memory will forever be cherished by her son, Joe Kerley (Renee), and her step-daughter, Elizabeth Matthews. The legacy left behind by their Mawmaw will live on in her grandchildren, Madeline Kerley, Jolee Kerley, Tyler Matthews, Amanda Matthews, and her great-grandchildren, Mila Cruz Caldwell, Aryia Matthews, and Sutton Matthews.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com