Kimberly Kern Perkins

Kimberly Kern Perkins passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones in North Carolina on June 1, 2025. A singular presence, Kimberly leaves behind a legacy of entrepreneurial spirit infused with compassion, generosity and indefatigable optimism.

Daughter of Jack and Claire Kern, stepdaughter of Jane Kern, Kimberly was the eldest of six siblings. Pre-deceased by siblings, James Kern and Joy Kern – She is survived by siblings David Kern, Laura Kern, and Annabeth Hardcastle, and step-siblings Mary Jane, Steven, and Kevin Alm. Kimberly is also survived by her children Matthew, Arthur and Jonathan Perkins, Lloyd Kern, and Nicole DiFilippo, her grandchildren Em, Cole and Atlas Perkins; and an extended family that tended to include everyone she met.

Inspired early by the spiritual teachings of her father, a Unity Minister, Kimberly — “Kim” to her many friends and loved ones – wove her deep sense of service and spiritual purpose into every aspect of her life. Her entrepreneurial work was never separate from her mission as a conscious being; rather, it became the vehicle for it.

In 1991, Kim co-founded Elysian Fields in Sarasota, Florida, with her best friend, artist Lea Semple. For 24 years, they ran the eclectic and beloved “conscious living” bookstore and gift shop, creating a haven of connection and intention, while gathering the community to it. The business reflected their shared vision of meaningful commerce and business: grounded in community, spirituality, and service.

Kim extended this mission beyond Elysian Fields– as a speaker and teacher at INATs (International New Age Trade show) and columnist for New Age Retailer, as well as pro-bono business mentor to dozens of aspiring conscious entrepreneurs.

Kim served on the boards of Unity churches in Sarasota, FL, and Port Angeles, WA, as well as the Religious Science Church in Sarasota. She was a frequent guest speaker at services and gatherings. She also served as a Guardian ad Litem and gave generously of her time to many charities through volunteer work.

Kim loved mystery novels, sushi, crystals, family trips, Kris Kristofferson songs, and heartfelt hugs. Above all, she loved people - and people loved her. The world is a little dimmer without her light, and she will be deeply missed.

In accordance with her wishes, a celebration of life will be held on August 30, 2025 at 2pm at Land of Sky United Church of Christ, 15 Overbrook Place, Asheville, NC 28805                            

- a joyful gathering open to all who wish to remember and connect through her spirit.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Kim’s name to Silent Unity.

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