Sally Kay (Kern) Roe, 83, passed away at home on Monday, March 16, 2026 in Fort Wayne with her three daughters right by her side. Sally was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana January 3, 1943, to the late Harold and Dora (Short) Kern.
Sally attended Southside High School before moving to Wausau, WI, where her parents purchased a jewelry store. Sally was a graduate of Wausau High School, class of 1961. After graduation, Sally returned to Indiana, where she raised her three daughters in Fort Wayne and Leo. She later returned to Wausau, Wisconsin, where she spent nearly 30 years. This is where Sally’s love for Golden Retrievers and lake life began. She and Chuck thoroughly enjoyed their time in Three Lakes, Wisconsin where lifelong memories were made with family and friends. Sally resided in Fort Wayne for the past 7 years, near her daughters and their families.
Sally absolutely loved the beach. It was her happy place. She highly anticipated her annual Florida trips, having the sun, sand, and a drink in her hand. Sally recently said, “bury me with a nice pedicure and flip flops”, which will be honored. If you know Sally, you know she had a love for whiskey. Happy hour started promptly at 5 O’ Clock. When asked to describe three things she learned from her father, her answer was, “how to smoke cigars, how to like whiskey, and how to be fair”. She became good at all of them.
Sally was an avid fan of the Purdue Boilermakers and Green Bay Packers. She rarely missed a game. She was always dressed for the occasion with proper attire and matching accessories to show her love for her team. In true Sally style, celebratory measures always took place during or after games. Sally was a very festive person, decorating her home for every holiday. She always looked forward to coloring Easter eggs and baking Christmas cookies.
Sally knew no strangers and made friends with everyone she met. She is known for her fun, spunky personality, her infectious laughter, and being a good listener. Sometimes a little sassy, Sally was truly one of a kind, a joy to be around, and so loved.
Sally was so very proud of her three daughters. She loved family time, and was like super glue, bringing everyone together. Her grandchildren and beloved great-granddaughter, brought Sally so much joy.
Sally is survived by her three daughters, Barbara Swaim (Robert) of Leo, IN, Lori Miller (RJ) of Orland, IN, and Julie Kelley, of Fort Wayne, IN; seven grandchildren, Andrew Miller (Melissa), of Waterloo, IN, Nikolas Kelley, of Lakeland, FL, Alli Miller, of Vancouver, WA, McKenna Murphy (Cody), of Auburn, IN, AJ Miller, Alec Swaim, and Corey Miller (Blair), all of Fort Wayne, IN; great-granddaughter, Ruby Murphy; and Charles Roe of Wausau, WI. She was preceded in death by her brother, Harold (Hal) Kern and nephew, Doug Kern.
A private memorial service with Sally’s immediate family will take place at a later date. Sally treasured her friendships and memories made with so many wonderful people in her life. Sally’s family is thankful to all that added joy to her life. Sharing memories of Sally is encouraged, as it brings comfort to the family, and will always be cherished.