Kerr Drug founder dies at 78

Drug Store News, Sept 13, 2000

RALEIGH, N.C. -- Banks Kerr, who founded Kerr Drug Stores in 1950 and served as its chairman and chief executive until its sale in 1995, died Aug. 24 at the age of 78.

Kerr began his career as a pharmacist in 1943 after graduating as valedictorian from the University of North Carolina School of Pharmacy. He served in the Army Medical Corps during World War II, and after launching the chain that bears his name, he became active in numerous professional and civic organizations. He served as president of North Carolina Mutual Wholesale Drug Co. for 20 years and was a board member of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores. He also received UNC's Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1998, when work began on Kerr Hall, an addition to the UNC School of Pharmacy. In addition, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the YMCA.

Kerr is survived by his wife of 56 years, Dot, as well as three children and eight grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kerr Family YMCA Branch, 1601 Hillsborough St., Raleigh, N.C. 27605; or the Hospice of Wake County, 1300 St. Mary's St., Raleigh, N.C. 27605.