Obituaries – October 2025

April 1, 1976 – Oct. 4, 2025

Mr. Perry Ray Miller, age 49, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital.

Perry was born on April 4, 1976, to the late Ralph Miller and Vanita (Mangaser) Miller.

Perry also known by his friends and family as “Pooh Bear” while growing up in West Chicago, Illinois. Music was like oxygen to Perry, as his mother was an accomplished and gifted musician. Perry had a great love of music, which lasted his whole life. Perry was a punk rocking self-proclaimed chef and made a mean corned beef and hash. His love for punk was deeply rooted in his DNA. Perry was a drummer in many bands, but none gave him so much pleasure than playing for the church. Perry was a deeply devout man; his faith was his salvation. Perry was always smiling, even through the long battle with his illness. His joy was infectious to all his friends and family that he loved so passionately. When Perry loved you, you could feel it in your soul.

In addition to his parents, Perry was preceded in death by one sister, Tina Penzanik.

Perry is survived by his son, Miles Miller of Murray, Kentucky; one brother, Joe Miller and wife Leslie of West Chicago, Illinois; the mother of Miles, Minjah Miller of Murray, Kentucky; mother-in-law, Linda Duddridge of Murray, Kentucky; sister-in-law, Kimberly Duddridge of Kenosha, Wisconsin; brother-in-law, Christopher Duddridge of Murray, Kentucky; and was a loving uncle of two nephews.

There will be no services at this time. A memorial service will be planned for a later date.

Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.

July 16, 1968 – Oct. 5, 2025

Mr. Chris Thomas, age 57, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at his home.

Arrangements are currently incomplete at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Dec. 31, 1953 – Oct. 5, 2025

The funeral service will be live streamed via YouTube.

Sherry Lynn Grunhaus, age 71, of Murray, Kentucky, went to be with her Lord on October 5, 2025. She was born in Terre Haute, Indiana, on December 31, 1953, to the late Millard D. Briggs and Kathlyn Roderick.

From a young age, Sherry carried a heart for service and compassion. She lived that calling through her career as a registered nurse, where she cared for countless patients over the years. Nursing was more than an occupation to her—it was a ministry of kindness, patience, and empathy. Those who knew her best remember how she treated every life entrusted to her hands with dignity and respect.

Faith was at the very center of Sherry’s life. She was a devoted member of Community Christian Church and found great joy in studying Scripture, praying daily, and encouraging others in their walk with Christ. Her love for the Lord guided her decisions, sustained her in difficult times, and was reflected in the way she loved her family and friends. Outside of her work and church, Sherry was a devoted quilter and found peace and joy in counted cross stitch. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Jim Briggs.

She leaves behind a legacy of love in her family: her husband of 44 years, Elie Grunhaus of Murray, Kentucky; her son, Daniel Grunhaus and wife Colleen of Raleigh, North Carolina; and her daughter, Rachel Anna Hollar and husband Greg of Rochester, New York. Though she will be dearly missed, her influence and faith live on through them.

Funeral services for Sherry will be held at 1 P.M. on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at Imes Funeral Home, 311 N. 4th Street Murray, KY 42071, with Larry Call officiating.  Burial will follow at the Murray City Cemetery.

Her family welcomes visitors from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at the funeral home.

Imes Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with caring for her family.

Oct. 14, 1960 – Oct. 4, 2025

Mr. Michael Lynn Willis, 64, of Murray, KY, passed away on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Murray Calloway County Hospital.

Michael was born on October 14, 1960 in Tiptonville, TN to the late Johnny and Edna Dill Willis.  He retired from Holland Tire in Murray.

Michael loved working in his yard with the love of his life and soul mate, Marilyn, taking care of their beautiful flowers. Mr. Willis had a deep appreciation for classic cars and was a devoted NASCAR fan, he rarely missed a race.  Michael also had a lifelong love for professional wrestling but more than his hobbies, he will be remembered for the joy he brought to his family and friends, especially his beloved sister, Shena.

He is preceded in death by his parents; grandparents and other aunts and uncles.

Those left to cherish his memory include his sons,  Matthew Willis (Katie) of Finley, TN, Lee Malone (Liz) of Murray, KY; his daughters, Leah Jacobs (Nick) of Dyersburg, TN, Angelique Hutchings (Johnny) of Murray, KY, Wendy Grooms of Murray, KY; a sister, Shena Herron (Clint) of Ripley, TN; his fiancé, Marilyn Malone of Murray, KY; grandchildren, Brittany, Tyler, Hannah, JT, Kaysin Ashleigh, Austin, Ethan, Elliott, Maggie, James and four great grandchildren, Ava, Jaksin, Presleigh and JJ.  He also leaves behind beloved nieces and nephews, Kolby, Zach, Marlee and Jessica, as well as, two great nephews, Beckham and Reeves.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.  

Imes Funeral Home & Crematory is entrusted with caring for his family.

Nov. 17, 1952 – Oct. 1, 2025

Mr. Louis Christopher Kerlick, III, age 72, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital in Murray, Kentucky.

Mr. Kerlick was born in Murray, Kentucky on November 17, 1952, to the late Louis Christopher Kerlick, Jr. and Bess (Thurman) Kerlick. Mr. Kerlick retired from Briggs and Stratton and was a member of the First Baptist Church. He was a 1970 graduate from Murray High School and later received his bachelor’s degree from Murray State University.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Kerlick was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Janie Kerlick.

Mr. Kerlick is survived by one brother, James Michael Kerlick; one niece, Katie Kerlick Calhoun and husband Michael; one great niece, Hope Calhoun; one great nephew, Nick Calhoun all of Madisonville, Kentucky; his aunt, Lanette Thurman of Murray, Kentucky; as well as several cousins and dear friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Bro. Keith Inman and John Dale will officiate, and burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral service on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the First Baptist Church, World Mission Offering, 203 South 4th Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.

Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.

Nov. 18, 1956 – Sept. 13, 2025

Mr. Philip McSwain Byrn, age 68, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, due to natural causes, at his family’s home in Murray, Kentucky.

Mr. Byrn was born on November 18, 1956, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky to the late James Milton Byrn and Dorothy Ruth (McSwain) Byrn. Philip grew up in Murray, Ky and graduated from Murray High School in 1975. Philip was a Methodist and earned his Boy Scout Eagle Award with BSA Troop 45. He worked as a lifeguard at scout camp as a teenager and taught many scouts how to swim. Philip was a Kentucky Colonel. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Western Kentucky University. He worked in property management in Urbana-Champaign, Illinois and Memphis, Tn. He worked for the State of Tennessee Housing and Urban Development. He owned a small business, Loan and Financial Services, in Nashville, Tn. Recently, he has been a real estate agent/broker in Nashville.

Philip was incredibly curious about many subjects and enjoyed talking with people from different cultures to learn about their life experiences and views of the world. He was an avid reader and collector of books. He said having books was a way of storing knowledge. Philip loved water skiing and fishing at Kentucky Lake, swimming laps at the Y, and dancing and listening to the singers at the VFW.

Survivors include his sister, Emily Byrn Scarborough; a niece, Rebecca Scarborough (Deyland Somer); a nephew, Nicholas Scarborough (Diana), and several cousins.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 10, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Rev. Jeff Rudy and Rev. Hal McSwain officiating. Burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 10, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the VFW, Post 1970, 7220 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209 or to the Calloway County Public Library, Friends of the Library, 710 Main Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.

Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.

May 18, 1957 – Sept. 30, 2025

Mrs. Barbara Karnes Denton, 68, of Kirksey, KY, passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at her home.

Mrs. Denton was born on May 18, 1957 in Boyd County, KY to the late Walter and Norma Bouldin Karnes.  She retired from Murray State University and was a member of Goshen United Methodist Church.

She is preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Francis and Rebecca.

Those she lovingly leaves behind include her husband, Mr. Jesse Denton of Kirksey, KY; a daughter, Jeren of Murray, KY; three sisters, Jamie of Hanson, KY, Susan of Houston, TX, Jane of Murray, KY and one beloved granddaughter, Maple.  

Her family welcomes visitors from 1 pm until 3 pm on Friday, October 3, 2025 at Kirksey United Methodist Church.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to Kirksey UMC Food Bank, PO Box 8, Kirksey, KY 42054.

Imes Funeral Home & Crematory is entrusted with caring for her family.

July 6, 1952 – Sept. 28, 2025

Ronnie Rae Arnett, of Murray, KY, passed away on September 28th, 2025, after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Ronnie lived a life full of adventure, compassion for others, and selfless service to her family and to the community. She was born in Dalhart, Texas in 1952 and moved with her family to Buchanan, TN. She graduated from Henry County High School and attended Freed Hardeman College. Ronnie later graduated from Murray State University with a Bachelor of Science degree and obtained two master’s degrees in social work and communications. Ronnie moved to Anchorage, AK in 1999 where she lived for twenty years and worked as a social worker and case manager, serving that community as an advocate for the homeless at Brother Francis Shelter. She also taught Public Speaking and Interpersonal Communications at the University of Alaska-Anchorage.

Ronnie cared most about her six children, Michael, Samuel, Daniel, Benjamin, Susan and Jeremiah, and considered them her life’s most treasured accomplishments. She had a strong work ethic and a love for lifelong learning. She encouraged her children and countless others to attend college and earn their degrees. Ronnie was the life embodiment of Shel Silverstein’s “The Giving Tree” and also wrote poetry herself. She retired and moved back to Murray, KY to be closer to her children, 28 cherished grandchildren, and four daughters-in-law (Sarah, Christie, Sara, and Misty).

She was a wonderful cook and was always happy to share her delicious blueberry muffins and homemade rolls. As the matriarch of the Arnett family, she taught her kids how to drive a stick shift, shop thriftfully, be kind to others, and live life like Christ instructed. Ronnie had a unique gift to see the best in people and constantly encouraged those around her to understand and meet their potential. In addition to being survived by her children and grandchildren, she is survived by her husband Marion Ward and two sisters, Cathy Frank and Floy Nell Carl.

Honoring Ronnie’s wishes, a private graveside service will be held for family at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Buchanan, TN.

The family is especially grateful to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, the kind folks at Meals on Wheels, and for all the love and support from our friends and family. Expressions of sympathy, in memory of Ronnie, can be made to either of these wonderful organizations.

Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to be entrusted with the care of Ms. Arnett. Please share your messages of condolence by signing her virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.

April 7, 1949 – Sept. 27, 2025

Kathryn Coon Harper, 76, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and accomplished artist, passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at her home in Cadiz, KY, surrounded by dear family and friends after a challenging battle with long Covid and ALS.

Born on April 7, 1949, in Monroe, LA, she was the daughter of Luther Coon and Julia Osterland Coon, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her two brothers, James Coon and Arnold Coon.

Kathryn graduated from Louisiana State University with a Master of Fine Arts degree, which laid the foundation for her successful career. For 28 years, she served as a public affairs officer for the TVA, then the U.S. Forest Service, a role that allowed her to blend her love for nature with her exceptional communication skills and creativity. In addition to her full-time career, she shared her love for the arts as an adjunct professor at both LSU and Murray State University, inspiring countless students with her knowledge and passion.

Kathryn found beauty in the world around her, and her creativity knew no bounds. Her talent for conveying the world through her art was masterful. She embraced this skill painting with watercolors, acrylics, oils and sketching gorgeous representations of people, pets, and landscapes culminating in a show of her life’s work at the Janice Mason Art Museum in Cadiz, a true tribute to her style. She was a founding member of the Janice Mason Art Museum and served on its Board of Directors, helping to foster a love for art and culture in her community. She inspired those around her to embrace their passions and pursue their dreams. Kathryn was not just an artist; she was also an accomplished martial artist with a blue belt, a certified yoga instructor, and an avid traveler who embraced life’s adventures with open arms. From her early days as a Girl Scout, she developed a profound love for nature that included horseback riding, camping, and boating.

When she met Wayne Harper, she knew she had found her true partner in this life. They created a warm, inviting, artistic and musical home in Snake Hollow among the vast Hickories, Maples and Dogwoods. They raised the first Harper granddaughter and named her after Wayne’s mother, Margaret, who was so pleased to finally have a girl after having nine wonderful sons and many grandsons. Their horses, cats, dogs, chickens and peacocks thrived on the farm often living longer than average. When Margaret and Shaun Thomas delivered her only granddaughter, Kathryn was over the moon. Julia Grace was a gift from the heavens who brought Kathryn continued joy and astonishment of how a being could be so amazing.

Kathryn saw the light in each person she encountered. She made people feel seen and heard. She took time to connect, to mentor, to provide thoughtful inspiration. She was an example of acceptance in this world that can too often feel divided.

Kathryn is survived by her devoted husband, Wayne Harper, whom she married on November 28, 1978; her daughter and son-in-law, Margaret Harper Thomas and Shaun Thomas; and her granddaughter, Julia Grace Thomas.

In her honor, please do something kind for someone. If you’d like to make a contribution to support the Janice Mason Art Museum, the family would be grateful. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

Goodwin Funeral Home, 138 Main Street in Cadiz, is in care of the arrangements.

Feb. 5, 1940 – Sept. 30, 2025

Mrs. Patricia Ann Balentine, age 85, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital.

Mrs. Balentine was born on February 5, 1940, in Murray, Kentucky, to the late Jeff “Rowdy” Stalls and Alma Lee Kirks Stalls. Patricia retired from Fisher-Price and was a member of the Calvery Temple Pentecostal Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Balentine; and three sisters, Mary Sue Chambers, Betty Carylon Ross and Nancy Lee Farmer.

Survivors include one daughter, Darla Culver Dugger and husband Aaron of Murray, Kentucky; two sons, Jeff Culver of Metropolis, Illinois, and Steve Balentine and wife Crystal of Paducah, Kentucky; one sister, Shirley Stalls Hart of Murray, Kentucky; six grandchildren, Jeffrey Patrick Dugger, Samuel Ray Dugger, Jackson Gage Dugger, Jessica Erickson, Olivia Townsend and Ava Townsend; two great grandchildren, Lilly Nevitt and Ani Erickson.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Bro. Darrell Young and Bro. Tom Clendenon will officiate, and burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m., Friday, October 3, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.

Feb. 22, 1938 – Sept. 29, 2025

Mrs. Barbara Ann Barnett, age 87, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away Monday, September 29, 2025, at Calvert City Nursing & Rehab in Calvert City, Kentucky.

Mrs. Barnett was born on February 22, 1938, in Murray, Kentucky. She worked at Murray Wholesale and, with her husband Dale, operated Barnett Farms. She was a member of Elm Grove Baptist Church, where she was part of the Golden Circle Sunday School Class and served for many years as church secretary.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Vermal Wilkinson Wicker and Toy Tucker; stepfather, Pat Wicker; husband, Dale Barnett; to whom she married on December 22, 1956, in Murray, Kentucky; and brother, Gary Wicker.

Survivors include two nephews, Keith Wicker and wife Teresa of Almo, Kentucky and Mike Wicker and wife Rhonda of Almo, Kentucky; three sisters-in-law, Rhonda Wrye of Murray, Kentucky, Maxine Sutts of Grosse Pointe, Michigan and Rachel Wolske of River Rouge, Michigan; one brother-in-law, J.L. Barnett and wife Barbara of Murray, Kentucky; four great nieces, Whitney Prescott and husband Adam of Knoxville, Tennessee, Shauna Traylor and husband Zack of Murray, Kentucky, Jessica Wicker and Alyssa Wicker both of Lexington, Kentucky; two great nephews, Tyler Schanbacher and wife Tosha of Benton, Kentucky and Blake Schanbacher of Murray, Kentucky; several great nieces and nephews; as well as several cousins survive.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 13, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Rev. Clint Gentry and Eddie Clyde Hale will officiate, and burial will follow in the Elm Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 13, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Expressions of sympathy can go to the Elm Grove Cemetery Fund, 6483 Hwy 94 East, Murray, Kentucky 42071 or Alzheimer’s Association, 6100 Dutchman’s Lane, Ste. 401, Louisville, Kentucky 40205.

Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.

May 25, 1948 – Sept. 29, 2025

Dianna Kay (Paschall) Spain, of Almo, KY passed away Monday September 29, 2025, at the Fulton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Born May 25, 1948, in Henry County, TN, Dianna was the daughter of the late Oxie and Bertie (Manning) Paschall. She was a loving homemaker and a faithful member of Almo Church of Christ.

Dianna has led a faithful Christian life and dearly loved her Almo Church of Christ family. Her greatest joy was giving to others, and she certainly practiced 2 Corinthians 9:7, as she was always a cheerful giver. She loved going to the movies, all things Elvis, and spending time with family and friends. She was truly a blessing to everyone that knew her.

In addition to her parents, Dianna was preceded in death by her husband Gary Spain, her loving brother, Patrick Michael Paschall, twin brothers, Randy and Andy Paschall, who died at birth; as well as her dear aunt and uncle, James (Jug) and Ruby Lindsey and nephew Jeff Durham.

Those left to cherish memories of Dianne include her son, Jason Spain (Samantha) of Lawton, OK, and her cherished grandchildren, Gavin, Logan and Ryah Spain; her sister-in-law, Beverly Paschall; nephews Darren Paschall (Lynn) and Shane Paschall (Pam); niece Rhonda Durham; and great nephews and nieces, Jared Paschall (Sherrie), Tyler Paschall, Brooke Harness (Jeremy), Ashton Downey (Brock), Paige Ellioitt (Hudson), John and Hampton Durham and Jacob and Jade Oakley. Also surviving are her cousins, Greg Bouffard (Kathy) and Dr. Keith Bouffard, of Michigan and dear friends Mary Stubblefield of Almo, Melisa Fearn of Murray, and Mary Bell of Sequim, WA.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025, in the chapel of the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home in Murray, with John Dale officiating. Entombment will follow the service in the Murray Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.

Friends may visit with the family between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, 713 S. 4th St., Murray, KY 42071.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Dianna’s memory to the Calloway County Animal Shelter, 81 Shelter Ln, Murray, KY 42071.

Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is privileged to be entrusted with the care of Ms. Spain. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing her virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.

May 25, 1949 – Sept. 25, 2025

Ms. Brenda Lee Mitchell, age 76, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the Mercy Health-Lourdes Hospital in Paducah, Kentucky.

Brenda was born on May 25, 1949, in Champagne, Illinois, to the late Walter Henry Mitchell and Barbara Ann Comstock Mitchell Thompson. She was a retired Lieutenant with the Whitfield County, Georgia, Sheriff’s office.

Survivors include one daughter, Kerry Ann Bruce of Dalton, Georgia (Stephanie); two sons, Brian Kendall Bruce of Murray, Kentucky (daughters Vanessa and Megan, and son Shawn); Joshua Blake Sanches Bruce of Corpus Christi, Texas (sons Michael, Ethan and Jackson) plus six great-grandchildren.

Brenda’s siblings include Leesa Mitchell, Melissa Thompson Milby, and her late brother Michael Kent Mitchell, as well as Mark Mitchell, Rebecca Mitchell Williams, Jeffery Revelette, Tammy Revelette and the late Byron Edward Revelette from her father’s second marriage to the late Agnes Mitchell. Brenda was always a hard worker with a quirky sense of humor who was loved by all.

Private family services are being planned for a late date.

Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.