With great sadness, we announce the passing of Robert “Bobby” Patrick Kern, who passed on May 12, 2025, at 61. Bobby was born to Robert and Anne Kern on September 14th, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York.
Bobby joined the Port Richey Police Department in 1985 and served for 31 and a half years, the longest tenured police officer in the department.
Bobby is survived by his loving wife Kathleen, his children Billy and Taylor Britton, Karen and Zachary Lewis, and his grandchildren Isabella, Savannah, Kelsey, Aurora, and Waverly Britton. He is also survived by his parents, Robert and Anne Kern, his sister, Cindy and Dennis Smith and their children, Lauren and Matt Whittaker, Caitlin and Ian Black, and Connor Smith, and his father-in-law, Joe Naples. His great-niece and nephew, Emma and Harrison Black, also survived him.
Bobby graduated from Hudson High School in 1981, attended college briefly before the police academy, and retired in 2017 after rising to Sergeant during his tenure.
Bobby enjoyed fine Irish whiskies and cigars, Billy Joel, classic standup comedy, and sending funny cat videos to his daughter. He was a man of simple tastes and rich humor; he was a selfless man who only wished to see the success of his peers and those around him, often mentoring his younger coworkers.
The service will be held on Tuesday, May 20th at Dobies Congress Chapel (6616 Congress St, New Port Richey, FL 34653) at 3 pm, with visitation from 1-3 pm. Following the service, Bobby’s remains will be cremated and will rest with his beloved wife, Kathleen, in the warmth of their shared home.
Any and all donations towards the cost of the service would be greatly appreciated and can be made through the funeral home directly.
Finley Gable
May 18, 2025, 10:23 pm
Our deepest sympathies
walter depietro
May 19, 2025, 1:37 pm
This is the saddest day. I’m happy that I got to see Bobby 3 weeks prior to his passing. He and I worked together for a lot of years and I enjoyed it. The stories that I have with Bobby we reminisced at the last time he and I were together. Funny times to think about now and will never forget. Bobby RIP and hope you know that I really miss you Buddy
Anna Edwards
May 19, 2025, 2:27 pm
Kathleen,
I have no words. My heart is broken for you. Know that, despite the distance, I am here for you, always.
I love you.
Stuart Crane , Michigan
May 20, 2025, 1:44 pm
During our days at Hudson High School, Bobby and I spent several years together in our school’s marching , jazz and concert bands. Gregarious and loyal, Bobby never missed a rehearsal and was a solid musician. I had moved to Hudson from New Mexico in November 1977 during the school year. I was part of the marching band and my first on field performance was the Cobra’s last road football game. I boarded the bus for the ride to Inverness but, I really didn’t know anyone yet. I didn’t know where to sit on the bus. Ever attentive, Bobby saw me and invited me to sit with him. He understood my nervousness and helped settle me by saying, “You’re gonna be fine, you’ve rehearsed well and you won’t be alone out there”. He was correct. Bobby and I would spend 3 more years rehearsing, performing and fund raising together for the Cobra Brigade. We learned the discipline of practice and the reward of community building . I am fortunate to have matured with a quality man during our fledgling years. Thank you, Bobby, for sharing your humor, kindness and dedication so easily. Fly high my friend.
Siller
May 21, 2025, 1:08 pm
Hi Kathleen sorry to hear the news about your husband my deepest condolences
love and prayers love 
you
Siller
May 21, 2025, 1:12 pm
Hi Kathleen sorry about your loss accept my condolences love
you prayers 
Christine Lawrence
May 21, 2025, 1:26 pm
Kathleen,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. My heart just breaks for you. You are in my thought and prayers.
Savannah
June 10, 2025, 5:41 pm
He was the best grandpa ever I wish he was still here I loved him dearly he was the best papa ever I know he love Aurora Kelsey Isabella and me so much and my mom and dad