MURRAY – Audiences everywhere – in school gyms that smell of sneakers and sweat; outdoors, swatting mosquitos, in summer stock productions; nestled in plush upholstered seats at glittery arts centers, or shifting restlessly in flimsy folding chairs – flock to performances of Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town.”
Even after eighty-seven years, the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama brings people of all ages and backgrounds together, drawing them in with stories of a small New England town that resonate with viewers urban and rural, at home and around the world.
The last time Murray’s Playhouse in the Park produced “Our Town,” was the 1988 season. Former executive director of the Playhouse, Liz Bussey Fentress, remembers that it kicked off the new season.
“We liked to open with a play that had name recognition,” she said. “Season ticket sales were going on, and we hoped an old favorite would attract more season ticket buyers.”
In that same “Our Town” production, Catie Bates Robinson played the role of Rebecca. “It was in the old depot, before we had air conditioning,” she remembered.
Just ten at the time, Catie could still recall her speech at the end of Act I. Her character was speaking to her big brother, George, about a letter a friend got when she was sick.
“The address was like this,” Rebecca recalled. “It said Jane Crofut; The Crofut Farm; Grover’s Corners; Sutton County; New Hampshire; United States of America…the United States of America; Continent of North America; Western Hemisphere; the Earth; the Solar System; the Universe; the Mind of God.”
The Becky character was not only impressed that the writer could fit all that verbiage onto the envelope, she was stunned the letter was actually delivered.
“The postman brought it just the same,” she marveled.
At a recent rehearsal of Playhouse in the Park’s upcoming production of “Our Town” (August 15 – 17 and August 22-24), the Becky character infused those lines with the same awe.
Sponsors of the Murray production are Terry and Judi Little, a local couple beloved for their community spirit, unceasing creativity, and vibrant volunteerism. They chose to back the play because they appreciated the wisdom of the “old chestnut,” as Terry described it.
“I’ve seen it four or five times,” he said, “And I continue to be fascinated by the play and the ways it depicts life, love, death, and afterlife.”
When the Littles decided to sponsor the show, they did not know that Terry would be a hospice patient by the time it was performed at the local theatre. “We didn’t know how close we were to the heart of ‘Our Town’ and its themes,” Terry remarked two days before he died on July 26.
Likely, he was referring to the final act, set in the Grover’s Corners cemetery. “It goes so fast,” the character, Emily, declares. “We don’t have time to look at one another. I didn’t realize,” she admits as she looks back on her life, “All that was going on and we never noticed.”
Terry Little passed away on July 26, five days shy of his 84th birthday. (Photo provided)
According to Terry and Judi Little, “We are grateful that “Our Town” came back into our lives when it did. It made a difference to us, and we hope it makes a difference to audiences at Playhouse in the Park.”
Some years back, Liz Bussey Fentress, former Playhouse in the Park executive director, was part of a company that produced the play in Louisville’s Actors Theatre. The staging required the whole company of actors – more than 20 of them – to sit on stage for the entire play, even when they had no lines.
“I discovered something new and different every time,” she explained. After the run was over, some of the cast started a tradition of getting together on Sundays for a potluck meal and a reading of “Our Town.”
“We called it ‘Our Town’ Church,” she said.
Former Playhouse in the Park Executive Director Liz Bussey Fentress, right, poses with Murray Sentinel Founder/Editor Jessica Paine, left, and Margaret Trevathan, a founding Playhouse in the Park board member, at a fundraising event in June 2017. (Photo by Terry Little)
An online article from the American Theatre organization explains how readings of “Our Town” are mounted in communities facing challenges and change. Ticket information and exact showtimes for the Murray performances are available online.
Constance Alexander is an award-winning columnist, poet, playwright, and President of INTEXCommunications in Murray.
MURRAY – For the first time in nearly four years, motorists can drive on Old Salem Road from beginning to end after county officials opened the new bridge over Clarks River early this afternoon.
The new bridge replaces one that was originally built in the 1940s on KY 94 W and moved to Old Salem Road in 1976. Instead of tearing down the relic, the county turned it into a fishing pier and added a small parking lot next to it.
In a Facebook post this afternoon, Calloway County Judge-Executive Kenny Imes noted that the new recreational area is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Imes also asked the public to refrain from driving vehicles of any kind off of the paved areas so as not to damage the freshly sown grass seed.
Instead of tearing down the old bridge, which was placed in that location in 1976 to replace the old wooden affectionately known as Rattlin’ Bridge, county officials decided to turn it into a fishing pier. (Photos by JESSICA PAINE/The Murray Sentinel)
Solid Waste Coordinator/Floodplain Officer Justin Tidwell said that crews finished installing the guard rails on the approach this morning.
Preparatory work, including environmental studies, started in February. According to county officials, engineering costs alone were around $200,000, considerably higher than most bridge projects, but this particular project was more involved because it crosses Clarks River. Engineers took core samples, soil samples, water samples and water qualification tests. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also had tests to conduct.
The new bridge is shown just after crews placed the deck in May. (Photo provided)
The new bridge deck was placed on May 1. Originally, officials anticipated opening it to the public by Memorial Day; however, Mother Nature had a different plan, delaying completion of the project by more than three months.
The price tag for replacing the bridge was approximately $1.3 million, including $1 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, with balance coming from the auto insurance tax levies recently instated by the Calloway County Fiscal Court.
MURRAY – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) announced this morning that the contractor tasked with milling and paving along U.S. 641/12th Street is scheduled to start the project later on Thursday, Aug. 7.
KYTC District 1 Public Information Officer Carrie Dillard told The Sentinel last month that the process will include fine milling around curbs and ramps, and she characterized the paving process as a “thin overlay.”
In anticipation of the project, the Murray Street Department replaced six manholes – one on Glendale Road, near the intersection with 12th Street, and five on the east side of the street from Glendale to Pogue Avenue, just south of Sycamore Street. According to Mayor Bob Rogers, after the city received notification about KYTC’s repaving project, officials asked the cabinet to delay the project to give the city time to replace the manholes.
In anticipation of KYTC’s project, the Murray Street Department replaced six manholes in July. (JESSICA PAINE/The Murray Sentinel)
The work zone will span the length of the city, from near Tabard Drive on the south side, at mile point 6.6, to KY 80 just north of Murray, at mile point 11. All of the work will take place at night, from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Weather permitting, the work is expected to be complete in three weeks.
The contractor will have two crews working simultaneously. Motorists should expect closures in both the northbound and southbound directions. Flaggers, signage and message boards will direct motorists to shift into the open lane in the work zone. KYTC urges the public to use appropriate caution when traveling in the work zone.
It is with profound sadness that the family of Dr. Clegg Farmer Austin announces his passing on July 30, 2025, at the age of 92. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, physician, and community servant, Dr. Austin lived a full and rich life marked by compassion, humility, and unwavering service to others.
Dr. Austin is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Faye Bentley Austin, who was not only his life partner but also his trusted collaborator in his pediatric practice. He is also survived by his children: Brent Austin; Jill Austin Guenther and her husband, Steve Guenther, of Murray, Kentucky; Mark Austin and his husband, Bill Sandoval, of Los Angeles, California; Paul Austin and his wife, Kelley Austin, of Houston, Texas; and John Michael Austin and his wife, Tonya Austin, also of Houston. His grandchildren include Kelsey Shuler Kolbenschlag and her husband, Dan Kolbenschlag; Nathan Shuler; John Paul Austin and his wife, Sarah Austin; Lewis Austin; Jason Austin; Sean Austin; and Luke Austin. He is also survived by his sister, Fidelia Austin Risk, and her husband, Paul Risk, of Muncie, Indiana.
Dr. Austin’s life was one of amazing commitments to his profession and his community. A trailblazer in regional healthcare, he was the first pediatrician in Western Kentucky and practiced medicine for an extraordinary 57 years with compassion and dedication. During his decades of service, he became an essential figure in the lives of countless families, often caring for multiple generations. He was known not only for his medical expertise but for his warmth and accessibility. Parents knew that no matter the hour, if their child needed help, Dr. Austin would always say, “Bring your child in,” and would remain in the office until the child received the care they needed.
In 2008, Dr. Austin was honored with the Cantley Award by the Kentucky Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, recognizing his outstanding contributions to pediatric healthcare in the state. He devoted himself wholly to his patients, working alongside his trusted nurse and wife, Faye.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Austin was actively engaged in improving child wellness and access to healthcare. He was involved with the Head Start program for over 40 years and served on the local health department board. In the 1960s, he represented the American Academy of Pediatrics in advocating for mandatory physical examinations for all preschool-aged children in Kentucky. He traveled extensively across Western Kentucky, often volunteering his time to administer free exams and serve children in rural communities. He also supported the Boy Scouts for decades, offering volunteer healthcare services, conducting physicals, and remaining on-call during camping seasons to ensure the safety and well-being of young scouts.
Dr. Austin was also a tireless advocate for nursing education. In 1963, he was instrumental in championing the creation of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at Murray State University, believing strongly in the essential role of nurses in providing quality healthcare.
Dr. Austin’s passion for education and his community was evident in his lifelong connection to Murray High School and Murray State University. A proud 1950 graduate of Murray High School, Dr. Austin was honored with the school’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2022, celebrating his decades of commitment to student well-being and his wider impact on the community. As an alumnus of Murray State University, Class of 1953, Dr. Austin was named the Distinguished Biology Alumnus in 2011 and served as the Grand Marshal for the Murray State Homecoming that same year—reflecting his leadership and devotion to the university. His family legacy at Murray State is a source of enduring pride: his father, A.B. Austin, was the first Dean of Men at Murray State and composed both the alma mater and fight song, while his mother, Lucille Farmer Austin, graduated from Murray State College in 1928.
His relationship with Murray State continued throughout his life, and he remained a loyal supporter of both the university and the greater educational landscape of Western Kentucky. He was also actively engaged in the civic life of the city of Murray and involved in supporting Murray High School through various school health and youth development efforts.
As a medical practitioner, Dr. Austin was constantly in pursuit of the latest innovations in pediatric care. He worked to bring new equipment and technologies to his practice and regularly stayed abreast of emerging research to improve outcomes for infants and children.
To those who knew him, Dr. Austin was more than a physician, he was a source of comfort, a wise advisor, and a gentle presence. Children often rushed into his arms with joy, and nurses and staff who worked alongside him respected him deeply for his trust in their professional judgment, kindness, and unwavering support. He was always positive and had a gentle rapport with new mothers and their infants. Many children under his care grew into adulthood still calling him their doctor—some spanning three generations within the same family.
Dr. Austin’s influence echoes through the lives of the families he cared for, his colleagues, and the community he served with immeasurable dedication and love. His enduring legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, countless patients, and all who had the privilege of knowing and being cared for by Dr. Austin.
His life was one of tremendous purpose, marked by a profound love for his family, his community, and especially the children whose lives he so deeply touched.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Austin enjoyed time gardening and boating on Kentucky Lake – finding peace and joy in the natural beauty of the place he called home.
Finally, Dr. Austin was a man of deep faith who found joy, purpose, and community through his church life. He was long active in both the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the First Baptist Church of Murray, Kentucky, where he formed lasting friendships and served with quiet dedication. Whether attending services, supporting ministry work, or simply enjoying fellowship with others, Dr. Austin was a beloved presence to many within his faith community. His devotion to his church and church family was yet another reflection of his lifelong commitment to love and serve others.
A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the First Baptist Church in Murray, Kentucky. Rev. Kerry Lambert will officiate along with family remarks and burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m., Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services, visitation will also be held from 1-3 p.m., Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the First Baptist Church in Murray.
In memory of Dr. Austin and with gratitude from the family, we encourage any expressions of sympathy be directed to either of the following:
The “Dr. Clegg F. Austin Memorial Scholarship” is being established to assist local area students with financial need that pursue pre-med education at Murray State University. Please make checks payable to MSU Foundation, Inc., 200 Heritage Hall, Murray, KY 42071 and make note of “Dr. Clegg F. Austin Memorial Scholarship”. Cards and envelopes will also be available at J.H. Churchill Funeral Home.
A donation to the Murray Head Start program to fund needed medical supplies for early childhood classrooms may be made in Dr. Austin’s name. Please make checks payable to Murray Head Start, 208 S. 13th St., Murray, KY 42071. Please note “Dr. Clegg F. Austin” on the memo line of the check.
MURRAY – Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman joined leaders from Murray to announce $750,000 in funding that will help to renovate the Weaks Senior Citizens Center in Murray. The facility currently prepares approximately 350 meals per day for seniors and needs upgrades.
“Today we celebrated a project that will make life better for our people,” said Lt. Gov. Coleman. “We all can use some help when it comes to taking care of an aging loved one. We’re making sure our senior citizens can grow older with grace and dignity.”
The existing building, located at 607 Poplar St., will be renovated to expand the kitchen by enclosing a patio. The kitchen is currently designed to prepare around 200 meals per day. During the pandemic, staff was preparing as many as 500 meals per day.
“We are excited and appreciative about receiving approval of our CDBG project,” said Bob Rogers, mayor of Murray. “This center is widely recognized as being the most vibrant center in the Purchase area. Daily, hundreds of seniors go to the center to exercise, eat lunch and visit with each other.”
The roof and HVAC system will both receive repairs as well, and an emergency generator will be installed. The new generator will ensure that meals can be prepared in the event of severe weather and power outages.
The property is owned by the Calloway County Fiscal Court and the building is owned by the Weaks Center Board.
MURRAY – A former Murray Middle School teacher filed a lawsuit against the Murray Board of Education last week in United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, asserting claims that her termination was the result of sex discrimination, associational disability discrimination and retaliation for invoking her rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Lindsay Koebbe, represented by Kelly Mulloy Myers, an attorney with Freking Myers & Reul LLC in Cincinnati, Ohio, filed the lawsuit on July 22. The case falls under the jurisdiction of the federal court system because the complaint alleges violations of federal law.
School board attorney William “Chip” Adams, III, informed The Sentinel that the district received notice of the lawsuit around 10 a.m. yesterday and further advised that the district does not comment on pending litigation.
According to the complaint, Koebbe was hired by the Murray Independent School District (MISD) as a fourth-grade science teacher in August 2020. From that time until her termination at the end of the 2023-24 school year, she received “commendations for her excellent performance,” such as winning teaching awards and receiving grants. Furthermore, she was never written-up or otherwise formally disciplined during that time and, in her most recent performance evaluation, was rated “excellent.”
In May 2024, Aaron Irvin attended the board’s monthly meeting to speak about Koebbe’s dismissal during the public comment portion of the meeting. Two people signed up to speak that night – Irvin and a community member who spoke against the demotion of long-time MMS Band Director Beth Stribling.
Aaron Irvin speaks to members of the Murray Board of Education during the public comment period at the May 28, 2024, school board meeting. (JESSICA PAINE/The Murray Sentinel)
Before opening the floor to public comment, Adams informed those in attendance of the board’s policies and procedures related to public comments at board meetings. Then, anticipating personnel decisions would be a subject of concern, Adams said, “It must be noted that, since the adoption of the Kentucky Education Reform Act in 1990 by the Kentucky legislature, ‘a’ board of education – not just Murray, but anywhere else – has no ability make personnel decisions, save and except the selection of the superintendent and the board attorney.”
Irvin was called first, but he withdrew his request to speak. “I apologize,” he said. “My understanding, based on the policies and procedures manual, was that the board and the superintendent, in particular, did have some say over hiring procedures in the district.”
After the meeting, Irvin told The Sentinel that he had hoped to bring the board’s attention to Koebbe’s numerous accolades and, as the father of a child with special needs, to share his family’s personal experiences with her over multiple years through MMS’ special education program.
“Having a student in that situation, that’s always something that you’re deeply concerned with and knowing that a teacher is there in the classroom, that you know has that experience, that you know has that advocacy, that you know is going to stand up and be there for your student is incredible,” Irvin said. “And so, seeing her just being terminated without really any explanation, knowing that she is beyond qualified, again, demonstrably, this outstanding teacher, it doesn’t make a lot of sense. That was something I was hoping to raise and, hopefully, have the board look into, have the superintendent, maybe, raise some questions about, but unfortunately, from the sound of it, it’s out of their hands as well.”
Board members speak during the Murray Board of Education regular monthly meeting held in May 2024. (JESSICA PAINE/The Murray Sentinel)
According to the complaint, Koebbe’s issues with MMS administrators began in 2022 when she was diagnosed with an unspecified medical condition. When she disclosed her diagnosis to Bob Horne, MMS’ principal at the time, “he recoiled and behaved as though [Koebbe] was contagious” and mocked her condition. The filing describes Horne as favoring male employees, “particularly those perceived as ‘tough,’” and notes a proclivity for reprimanding female employees, including Koebbe, for doing things that their male counterparts were free to do without fear of discourse, such as standing on a chair to hang something on the wall.
Tensions between Koebbe and administrators escalated in 2023, when she voiced concerns about the efficacy of MMS’ special education program, drawing on the experiences of her own child who developed severe anxiety and vocal tics after being enrolled in the program. The complaint notes an occasion when current MMS Principal, then-Assistant Principal, Shelley Stubblefield “yelled at Plaintiff’s child to ‘stop’ his tic, even though he had no control over it.”
In March 2024, Koebbe informed administrators that, on the recommendation of her child’s pediatrician, she needed to take FMLA leave to care for her child. According to the complaint, Horne suggested that Koebbe should be a “stay-at-home mother.” To that end, the complaint further asserts that Koebbe was not the only female employee who received such treatment when taking leave to care for family members.
While on FMLA leave, another teacher was moved into Koebbe’s position, and despite the fact that Koebbe was previously informed that she would remain employed for the next school year, she was terminated. At the time of her termination, there was an open position for a language arts teacher, a position for which Koebbe was qualified, but administrators chose to hire a new teacher who had just graduated to fill the position.
Counts I and II of the complaint claim that Koebbe was discriminated against on the basis of her sex. Count I invokes violations of federal law, namely Title VII, while Count II concerns violations of state law.
In support of the sex discrimination claims, the complaint contends that Koebbe and other female employees were often chastised for conduct in which their male counterparts regularly engaged; that administrators failed to reprimand male employees for the same behaviors female employees were punished for carrying out; that Horne openly praised and expressed a preference for male employees, particularly those of large stature; that after Koebbe requested taking FMLA leave, Horne suggested that she was “better suited” for staying home to care for her child than continuing her employment with MISD; and that Koebbe had received assurances that her contract would be extended for the next school year but was nonetheless terminated while on FMLA leave.
Count III claims MISD violated the “association” provision of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which protects employees from discrimination based on their relationship to an individual with a disability, regardless of the employee’s disability status. The complaint argues that Koebbe’s child, who was enrolled in MMS’ special education program, has a protected disability and that she took FMLA leave to care for that child, concluding that Koebbe was terminated on account of her disability, whether real or perceived, and/or because of her association with her disabled child, both of which are violations of the ADA.
Finally, Count IV asserts violations of the FMLA. Koebbe was eligible for FMLA leave because she had worked for MISD, an employer with 50 or more employees, for at least 12 months, and she worked at least 1,250 hours in the previous 12-month period; therefore, she was entitled to take FMLA leave for her child’s medical condition. The complaint characterizes MISD’s decision to terminate Koebbe’s contract while she was on FMLA-approved leave as an unlawful act of retaliation against her for exercising her rights under the FMLA.
Koebbe has asked the court to enjoin MISD from further discriminatory and retaliatory conduct as described in the complaint and to either reinstate her contract or award her front pay. In addition, she is seeking recovery of all lost earnings and benefits, compensatory damages for emotional distress, liquidated damages, punitive damages, reimbursement of court costs and attorneys’ fees and that she be compensated for any adverse tax consequences that may result from her receiving a lump sum award instead of receiving regular paychecks across separate tax years.
MISD now has 21 days to file its answer to the complaint.
Filings in civil lawsuits only reflect one party’s interpretation of events.
Diana Kay Robinson, 62, of Murray, KY, and formerly of Sacramento, CA, passed peacefully at her home on Sunday, August 31, 2025
Born in Sacramento on May 23, 1963, Diana was the beloved daughter of the late Johnnie Robinson and the late Mable McKenzie. From a young age, she carried within her a vibrant energy and a natural charm that drew others in. She was a woman who not only embraced life but celebrated it with an unmatched joy.
Beyond her professional life of owning and operating a restaurant, Diana had an unshakable passion for music. It was the soundtrack of her days, filling her world with rhythm and spirit. She also had a deep love for animals, a reflection of her kind and compassionate heart.
Diana was often described as the life of the party. She had a gift for making those around her laugh and feel loved, and she carried herself with intelligence, grace, and an authenticity that left an indelible impression on everyone she met.
Among the many blessings in Diana’s life, her greatest joy came when she met her fiancé, Tony Garcia of Murray, KY. Together, they shared a love that was tender, uplifting, and transformative—the kind of bond that gave both of them strength and happiness.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her fiancé, Tony Garcia of Murray, KY; her cherished friend, Melinda Thatcher of Murray, KY; several cousins; and a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and loved ones who were touched by her spirit and who will continue to carry her light forward.
A private ceremony honoring Diana’s life will be held at a later date.
Imes Funeral is entrusted with caring for her family and friends.
Ronald Tecoma*
Aug. 10, 1946 – Aug. 31, 2025
Ronald Gordon Tecoma, 79, passed away on August 31, 2025, at West Tennessee Health Care, Henry County Hospital. He was born on August 10, 1946, in Dayton, Ohio, to the late Victor Tecoma and Dovie Stiltner.
After graduating high school, Ronald enlisted in the United States Army. Later in life, he worked in management at a nuclear facility. He was also an active member of both the American Legion and the VFW.
Per Mr. Tecoma’s request, no services have been planned.
Imes Funeral Home is entrusted with caring for his family.
Michael Hopkins*
Feb. 5, 1971 – Aug. 31, 2025
Mr. Michael Cad Hopkins, age 54, of New Concord, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital in Murray, Kentucky.
A memorial service honoring Michael’s life will be held on September 6, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services, with Bro. Ben Childs officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
Read Captain Hopkins’ complete obituary and other tributes here.
Janet McClure*
Oct. 3, 1946 – Aug. 30, 2025
Mrs. Janet Kay McClure, age 78, of Ruskin, Florida, passed away Saturday, August 30, 2025, at her home.
Mrs. McClure was born on October 3, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan to the late John Usher and Imogene (Clark) Usher. She retired as an Insurance Representative for the John Hancock Insurance Company and was of the Christian Faith.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Paul D. McClure, who passed away on November 26, 2015.
Survivors include two daughters, Jennifer Browning of Oakhurst, California and Sarah Dupuis of Fresno, California; five grandchildren, Jesse Browning of Lincolnton, North Carolina, Wesley Browning of Oakhurst, California, Zac Browning of San Diego, California, Ashley Dupuis of Fresno, California, and Natalie Dupois of Fresno, California; one sister-in-law, Elizabeth Spiceland and husband Dan of Poland, Indiana; as well as one very special cousin, Doug Clark and wife Bonnie of Mancelona, Michigan.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Rev. Tim Palmer officiating. Burial will follow in the Elm Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Mr. Thomas L. Smith, 86 of Murray, KY, passed away Sunday, August 31, 2025 at Spring Creek Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Murray, KY.
Born April 6, 1939, in Cincinnati, OH, Thomas was the son of the late William Loyal Smith and Beulah (Wilson) Smith. He retired from Paschall Truck Lines, Inc. as a dispatcher.
Thomas is survived by his wife, Maurita (Crouse) Smith of Murray; daughter, Kathy Smith of Raleigh, NC; son, David Smith of Atlanta, GA; step-son, Tracy Pritchett and step-daughter, Yvonna Hooper, both of Murray; sisters, July Girdler of Springfield, OH and Ann James or Nicholasville, KY; brother, Mike (Rene) Kuhn of Murfreesboro, TN; as well as seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Honoring Thomas’ wishes, no public visitation held. A graveside service will be held Monday, September 8, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Elm Grove Cemetery, with Rev. Sammy Cunningham officiating.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is privileged to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Smith. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Michael Paul “Tiny” Hale*
March 30, 1978 – Aug. 30, 2025
Mr. Michael Paul “Tiny” Hale, 47, of Murray, KY, passed away Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital.
Born March 30, 1978, in Murray, Michael was the son of the late Don Hale and Bonnie J. (Carroll) Hale of Murray. He was a graduate of West Kentucky Community and Technical College and worked as an electrician.
Those left to cherish memories of Michael include his mother, Bonnie Hale of Murray; brother, Bryan Hale (Amy Allbritten) of Murray; sister, Kelly Scruggs (Jamey) of Paducah; a niece, Haley Austin (Jay); and a nephew, Haden Scruggs (Adison); as well as uncles, Jackie Hale (Gloria) and Jimmy Hale (Robbie). Michael will also be greatly missed by his best friend, Michael Mohler, and many cousins.
In addition to his father, Michael was preceded in death by an aunt, Betty McPhail, and an uncle, Bonnia Lee Hale.
A private graveside service will be held at Murray Memorial Gardens, Murray, KY, with Bro. Sammy Cunningham officiating. Honoring Michael’s wishes, no public visitation or services will be held.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is privileged to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Hale. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Don Bert Gilbert*
March 8, 1962 – Aug. 29, 2025
Mr. Don Bert Gilbert, 63, of Murray, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025 at his home.
Don Bert was born to the late Don Payne and Jacqueline Watson Gilbert on March 8, 1962 in Murray, KY. He was born and raised in Murray, graduating from Murray High School.
Don Bert worked at Fisher Price for 20 years where he met Hazel Scott and they married June 8, 1991 and had 2 children.
Don Bert later joined his mother and stepfather Bill and Jackie Daughtery in operating the beloved Log Cabin restaurant that was ironically located in the same location as the Triangle Inn, owned and operated by the Gilbert Family years before. He spent the last 22 years working at Pella Corporation.
Don Bert or “Bert” as others often called him, loved music, NASCAR, golf, his cats and had the biggest laugh that will be missed.
He is preceded in death by his father Don Payne Gilbert, his mother Jackie Watson Daughtery, stepfather William “Bill” Daughtery and a brother, Steven Payne Gilbert.
Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Justin Gilbert of Athens, GA; his daughter, Megan Gilbert of Hazel, KY; three sisters, Denice Reed (Shannon) of CO, Deidre Thompson (Dean) of GA, Marianne Curry (Craig) of OH, 2 aunts, 2 nieces and 6 nephews.
No services are planned at this time.
Imes Funeral Home is entrusted with caring for his family. Please join family and friends in honoring the life of Mr. Don Gilbert by visiting www.imesfh.com to post your tributes and memories.
Kelsey Watson Chadwick*
Jan. 23, 1990 – Aug. 28, 2025
Kelsey Watson Chadwick, age 35, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, August 28th at Frankfort Regional Medical Center after an unexpected medical emergency. She was born on January 23, 1990.
Kelsey loved people and went out her way to share her love of Jesus with everyone she encountered. She would want everyone to know that she is at home today in the arms of Jesus. Her heart’s desire was to watch young people grow in the best version of themselves. She served for over a decade in the children’s ministry alongside her husband at Chief Cornerstone Baptist Church. She worked for the University of Kentucky as a 4H agent in Carlisle and Graves counties before serving as a professor at Murray State University in the Family and Consumer Science Department. She most recently returned to UK extension this summer as 4H State Specialist. She held multiple bachelor’s degrees from Murray State, a Master of Social Work from the University of Louisville and a Doctorate of Social Work from the University of Kentucky.
Kesley loved her family with a passion that was second only to Jesus. She is survived by her husband of over 16 years, Bro. Matthew Chadwick, two beautiful daughters, Dava Noel Chadwick and Daphne Marie Chadwick; her loving parents, David Johnson Watson and Lesa Jones Watson; aunts and uncles include Jobeth (Larry) England, Yvette (Billy) Pyle, Dan (Gail) Watson, Lawanda (Michael) Glover, Susan Jones, Joey Michael (Sherry) Jones, along with many cousins. She is preceded in death by her grandparents Dwight and Elizabeth Watson, Dale and Ernestine Jones, and uncles Larry Jones and Gary Jones.
The family invites everyone to attend the celebration of life service on Monday, September 1st, 2025, at 1:00p.m. at Chief Cornerstone Baptist Church, 5772 State Route 464, Mayfield, KY with Bro. Keith Allred and Bro. Matthew Chadwick officiating. Burial will follow in the Spring Creek Cemetery at 995 Spring Road, Almo, KY. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, September 1, 2025, at Chief Cornerstone Baptist Church.
Expressions of Sympathy can be made to Chief Cornerstone Baptist Church Building Fund, 5772 State Route 464, Mayfield, KY. 42066.
J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.jhchurchill.com.
George M. Elmore*
March 9, 1935 – Aug. 29, 2025
Mr. George M. Elmore, 90, of Murray, KY, died peacefully at his home on August 29, 2025.
Mr. Elmore was born on March 9, 1935 in Reform, AL to the late Archie Elmore and Vera Bridges Elmore. He proudly served in the US National Guard.
He lived 90 long and wonderful years, almost 48 of which were spent with his beloved wife, Carol, by his side. He was a cherished husband, a beloved father, an adored pawpaw and an amazing friend. He meant so much to so many. George was one in a million. He brought laughter and fun everywhere he went. Truly, a memorable and unforgettable soul. To know him was to love him. He had such a way with everyone, especially children. You know one’s character is solid when children adore them, and he loved to have a lap full of babies. They gravitated to him. His jokes were hilarious, his stories, entertaining, and his words of support and encouragement, comforting. His general presence was so warm and welcoming. 90 years was simply not enough for someone so special.
In his younger years, George played football at Florence State University in Alabama, he loved to play golf, watch Alabama football and listen to his gospel music, but most of all, he adored spending time with his family. He will be dearly missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Mary Larson; brothers, Bernard, Verner, JT, Joe, Hayes and Doug Elmore and a son, Robbie Wilburn.
Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Mrs. Carol Elmore; children, Greg Elmore (Lori), Tim Elmore (Tricia), Beth Bryant (Phil); a brother, Larry Elmore (Martha); a daughter in law, Carlie Wilburn; 14 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews.
A private family celebration will take place at a later date.
Please join family and friends in honoring the life of Mr. George Elmore by visiting www.imesfh.com to post your tributes and memories.
Danny Frank Lindsey*
Nov. 27, 1944 – Aug. 28, 2025
Mr. Danny Frank Lindsey, 80, of New Concord, KY, passed away on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at his home.
Danny was born to the late Carthal Lindsay and Virginia Craig on November 27, 1944 in Gibson County, TN.
Per Mr. Lindsey’s wishes, no services are planned at this time.
Imes Funeral Home is entrusted with caring for his family.
Jessie Maye Atkins Fengler*
April 3, 1931 – July 24, 2025
Jessie Maye Atkins Fengler passed away on July 24, 2025, in Bocca Raton, Florida.
She was born in Murray, Kentucky, to Pauline and Tommie Atkins, Jessie’s life was marked by intelligence, determination, and grace. She graduated as valedictorian of both her high school and college classes, earning a scholarship to Murray State University.
Jessie’s talents and charm took her to New York City, where she found success as a model and actress, spending ten years on As the World Turns. Later, she broke new ground as the first female advertising agent in New York, creating commercials with her husband John for companies such as Diet Coke, Bayer Aspirin, and Legos.
In retirement, Jessie and John made their home in Boca Raton, where she enjoyed a full and meaningful life. Jessie had a way of making everyone feel special—she was deeply loved by all who met her.
She is survived by her step-son John Mark Fengler, her niece Pamela Atkins Schmidt and her husband Don and sons Kurt and Kraig. She is also survived by her cousin Margaret Ruth Atkins Elder and her husband Charles, Jan Babir, her husband Dave and sons of Orlando, Elisa Elder of Orlando, and her dear friend Helene Greenberg of Boca Raton.
Jessie was preceded in death by her husband, John Fengler, and by her brothers, Fred Eugene Atkins and Private Billy Ray Atkins.
A burial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on September 8, 2025, at Elm Grove Cemetery.
Mr. David Mark Holland, 67, of Dexter, KY, passed away Tuesday, August 26, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at home.
Born October 8, 1957, in Peoria, IL, David was the son of the late Marvin Holland and Dorothy (Powell) Holland. He was the co-owner of Holland Auto Repair for many years.
Those left to cherish memories of David include his son, Dakota Holland of Dukedom, TN; daughter, Hannah Krauss of Murray; bonus daughter, Karen Bray of Murray; brother, Michael Holland of Benton; brother and friend, Ronnie Clevidence; sister, Debbie Holland of Benton; special companion, Janet Coleman of New Concord; best friends, Rachel (Garland) Overcast of Dexter and Marshall Fennel of Union City, TN; and grandchildren, Kayden Cole, Remington Tubbs, Ezra Mark Holland, Chevelle Krauss, and Mayhem Holland.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by a brother, Leonard Holland and a best friend, Dwain Tubbs.
A memorial visitation for friends and family will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 30, 2025, in the chapel of Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home in Murray, KY.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is privileged to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Holland. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Ronald Potts*
Nov. 13, 1964 – Aug. 26, 2025
Ronald Potts, 60, of Murray, KY, passed away Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, Murray, KY.
Born on November 13, 1964, in Chicago, IL, Ronald was the son of the late Alonzo Potts and the late Thelma (Goss) Potts. He was a floor technician at Murray-Calloway County Hospital.
He is survived by his wife, Janice Marie Potts of Paris, TN and his son, Michael Fitsgerald Potts of Chicago, IL.
Funeral services will be conducted Friday, September 5, 2025, at the Leak and Son’s Funeral Home, 7838 South Cottage Grove Avenue, Chicago, IL 60619.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Potts. Please share your messages of condolence by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Steve Grogan*
Dec. 24, 1944 – Aug. 25, 2025
Mr. Steve Grogan, age 80, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House.
Mr. Grogan was born on December 24, 1944, in Murray, Kentucky to the late John Dual Grogan and Audrey “Modean” (Nicholas) Grogan. Steve grew up in the Shiloh Community in Calloway County and raised his own family within a few hundred yards of his homeplace. He graduated from Calloway County High School in 1962 where he was a member of the Baseball Team. Mr. Grogan retired from Frito-Lay, Inc. as a route salesman in 2001 after 32 years and to many in the Murray Community and surrounding area he was known as the “Potato Chip Man”. After retirement and a few short years later, Steve worked for Stories Paint in Murray as a delivery driver.
Mr. Grogan served on the Calloway County School Board from 1995 to 2017 until having to step down due to illness. He was also known by many as the coach along with his brother-in-law, Red Overbey, of the Banditos Girls Slow Pitch Softball Teams in the 1970’s. Still to this day when one of his former players see him out and about, they always still call him, “Coach”. Steve had the privilege and honor of being named a Kentucky Colonel. He will be remembered by his sense of humor and witty phrases, never knowing what was going to come out of his mouth next. Nothing brought him more joy and happiness than spending time with his family. He was of the Methodist Faith and attended Glendale Road Church of Christ for many years.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Lestel Elkins; mother-in-law, Pauline (Hunt) Elkins Nicholas; brother-in-law, Jerry “Red” Overbey; as well as one niece, Renee Overbey.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Debbie (Elkins) Grogan of Murray, Kentucky; to whom he married on August 3, 1963 in Almo, Kentucky at the Temple Hill Methodist Church; two sons, Jeremy Grogan and wife Bridgette of Murray, Kentucky and Jason Grogan and wife Summer of Almo, Kentucky; and G-Dad to four grandchildren, Taylor Suiter and husband Bryce of Murray, Kentucky, Evan Garrison of Lakewood, Colorado, Emerson Grogan of Murray, Kentucky, and Bailee Grogan of Almo, Kentucky; sister-in-law, Judy (Elkins) Overbey of Murray ,Kentucky; and one niece, Penny Wallace of Murray,
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 29, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Rev. Tim Palmer, Rev. Kerry Lambert and John Dale officiating. Burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, 803 Poplar Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Mr. James Dale Morrison, age 82, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the Tristar Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
Mr. Morrison was born in Murray, Kentucky, on January 31, 1943, to the late Ernest Morrison and Lala (Turner) Morrison. Mr. Morrison retired from Fisher- Price / Mattel and previously was employed at Boggess Chevrolet in Cadiz, Kentucky. He was a member of the New Jenny Ridge Pentecostal Church. Mr. Morrison had a love for all animals, and cared for many of his special animals, including his horse (Charlie), donkey (Jesse), emu (Emmitt), pet turtle (Tucker), and many others over the years. He enjoyed feeding his birds and squirrels and watching Discovery and Animal Planet. Not only did he have a love for animals, but a love for his family. He always planned and looked forward to big family gatherings, especially during the holidays.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Morrison was preceded in death by 11 siblings.
Mr. Morrison is survived by his wife of 57 years, Patricia (Parrish) Morrison of Murray, Kentucky, to whom he married in 1968; two daughters, Jennifer Dick and Angela Yearry and husband James all of Murray, Kentucky; one brother, Phillip Morrison and wife Linda of Murray, Kentucky; four grandchildren, Kera McIntosh and special friend Gavin, Logan Dick, Blake Yearry and wife Makayla, and Chayse Yearry all of Murray, Kentucky; sisters-in-law, Carol Balentine of Dexter, Kentucky, Sandra Parrish of Murray, Kentucky and Jenny Parrish of Hazel, Kentucky; as well as his two brothers-in-law, Roger Parrish and special friend Cindy of Murray, Kentucky and Charles Parrish and wife Kelly of Buchanan, Tennessee.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Rev. Robert Brown and Rev. Anna Pinnegar will officiate, with burial to follow in the New Jenny Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral service on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
Mr. William L. Nichols, age 60, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Spring Creek Health Care in Murray, Kentucky.
Arrangements are currently incomplete at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Joyce Evelyn Olson*
March 12, 1941 – June 9, 2025
Ms. Joyce Evelyn Olson, age 84, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away, Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Baptist Health Hospital in Paducah, Kentucky.
Ms. Olson was born on March 12, 1941, in Dearborn, Michigan to the late Charles Elsworth Hillen and Georgia Etta (Wiles) Hillen. She worked most of her working life as a cook on a riverboat and later as a cook for the Murray State University Winslow Cafeteria. She attended the Eastwood Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one sister, Janet Elaine (Hillen) Starks; as well as two brothers, James Edward Hillen and Jerry Eugene Hillen.
Survivors include one daughter, Bobbie Jean Olson of Bloomington, Minnesota; one son, David Roger Olson, Jr. and wife Lori of Eagle Lake, Minnesota; one brother, Jess Hillen of Paducah, Kentucky; as well as four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Ms. Olsons cremains will be scattered at the Fairdealing Cemetery in Marshall County, Kentucky at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 13, 2025. A reception will follow at the Four Little Pigs Restaurant in Benton, Kentucky.
Mr. Herbert Lee Boren, age 84, of Hazel, Kentucky, passed away, Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at his home.
Mr. Boren was born on April 1, 1941, in Trigg County, Kentucky to the late Hobert Boren and Minnie (Askew) Boren. Mr. Boren loved to travel the world as truck driver and restore old cars in his past time. He loved to ride four wheelers, fish, and travel as well. Mr. Boren never met a stranger and was a fun-loving person that loved to tell jokes and do pranks. His main passion and priority was to be a good and loving husband, as well as a wonderful father, grandfather, and a great-grandfather.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Gayle (Sanders) Boren; one daughter, Sheryl McKinney; three sisters, Ortha Fox, Dorothy Russell, and Beulaha Wallace; one brother, Robert Boren; as well as one great-grandson, Joseph White.
Survivors include one daughter, Kimberly Mercado (Anthony) of Murray, Kentucky; two sons, Jason Boren and Randall Boren (Kathy) all of Murray, Kentucky; one brother, Jack Boren of Cadiz, Kentucky; 14 grandchildren, Angela Wesztergom (Franz), Anthony Mercado, Jr. (Kristynn), Andrea Ellie Mercado (Zackery Hunter), Chessy McManaway (David), Katherine Mercado, Carmean Volp (Chess), Joshua West, Brandon McKinney, Danielle Nicole Davenport, Kayla Stout, Amber Stout, Hannah Boren, Blake Boren, and Bandy DeShields (Miranda); as well as 11 great-grandchildren, Ayden Wesztergom, Juliet Wesztergom, Ophelia Wesztergom, Everlie Hunter, Kaylee McManaway, Aislynn McManaway, Cora Volp, Sierra White, Adalynn White, Avery Helton, and Salem Helton.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, August 25, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Bro. Jordan Roach officiating. Burial will follow in the Murray Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Monday, August 25, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, checks payable to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 4550 Montgomery Ave, Suite 1100 N., Bethesda, Maryland 20814.
Hugh Allen Leslie, of Murray, Kentucky, went home to be with the Lord on August 14, 2025, holding the hands of his beloved wife and daughter. He was 56 years old.
Allen was born on March 18, 1969, in Murray, Kentucky, to Larry and Carolyn Leslie. He graduated from Calloway County High School in 1987 and from the former Institute of Electronic Technology in 1990.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bill Leslie; his sister, Beth Fielder; and his grandparents, Hugh and Imogene Palmer and Roy and Ruby Jo Leslie.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, Michelle Leslie, also of Murray, Kentucky; his beloved daughter, Tara Gardner (Christian) of Cayce, Kentucky; his aunt and uncle, Dan and Aileen Leslie of Kirksey, Kentucky; his aunt, Cynthia Leslie of Hazel, Kentucky; along with several nieces and nephews who will miss him deeply.
For 27 years, Allen worked as an electronic engineer at Sportable Scoreboards. He truly loved his work and the people alongside him, and as his health declined, he longed for the day he could return to it. In his final months, he fought valiantly to regain his strength, driven by his love for his family and church, and by his desire to once again do the work he enjoyed so much.
Allen was a man of unwavering faith in the Lord, who found joy in the simple but profound gifts of life: being present with his family, taking pride in a job well done, and showing kindness to those around him. His greatest happiness came from being a husband and a father, and his steady love and devotion will be the legacy his family carries forward.
He was a deacon at North Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Murray, Kentucky, where he valued serving his church family in various capacities, worship and fellowship.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Bro. Sammy Cunningham officiating. Burial will follow in the Coles Campground Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105-9959 and to the Murray-Calloway County Animal Shelter, 81 Shelter Lane, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Ms. Marie L. Castleberry, age 64, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital.
Ms. Castleberry was born on September 5, 1960, in Louisville, Kentucky to the late Thomas Armstrong and Martha Lane (Poyner) Armstrong. She worked at Westview Nursing Home, now Spring Creek Health Care, for 20 plus years as a nurse’s aide.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Alan Paul Armstrong and Andrew Mark Armstrong.
Survivors include her life partner, David Leach of Murray, Kentucky; one son, William Richard Castleberry of Murray, Kentucky; as well as two grandchildren, Chandler and Bentleigh Castleberry both of Murray, Kentucky.
Mr. Walter Walls, 87, of Murray, KY, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025 at Murray Calloway County Hospital.
Mr. Walls was born on January 27, 1938 in Murray, KY to the late J.W. Walls and Lula Mae Hampton.
Walter was a graduate of Douglas High School in Murray, and later joined and proudly served in the United States Army. He acknowledged his faith in God as a member of St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Harold, James and Lynwood Walls and a granddaughter, Mecah A. McGowan.
Those he lovingly leaves behind include one daughter, Glenda Walls of Chicago, IL; grandchildren, Latoya Walls Williams, Jerrell Edwards, Malika Cornelious; 14 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren. Also surviving are his nephews, Vincent Walls (Patricia) of Dallas, TX, Bryant Walls (Jennette) of Rockwall, TX, Heath Walls (Alisa) of Murray, KY, Quinten Walls, Kerne Kendall of Phoenix, AZ; nieces, Kim Walls of Clarksville, TN, La Tosha Smith, Ashley Walls of Paris, TN; a sister in law, Katherine Tharpe Walls of Murray, KY and a host of other relatives and friends.
A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Heritage Chapel of Imes Funeral Home, 1804 Highway 121 Bypass North, Murray. Burial will follow at Murray City Cemetery.
His family welcomes visitors from 10 AM – 11 AM on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Heritage Chapel.
Please join family and friends in honoring the life of Mr. Walter Walls by visiting www.imesfh.com to post your tributes and memories.
Michael Holton*
Nov. 5, 1947 – Aug. 16, 2025
Mr. Michael Andrew Holton, age 77, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House.
Mr. Holton was born on November 5, 1947, in Murray, Kentucky to the late Henry Elijah Holton III and Mary “Marie” (Ingram) Holton. He graduated from Murray High School and attended Murray State University, where he played on the golf team and studied art. He worked as an insurance agent having taken over the family insurance agency, Holton-Melugin Insurance Agency. Over the years, he also pursued many entrepreneurial ventures. Mr. Holton was also a distributor of Wrinkle, Inc., an auctioneer, and former owner of Wingfoot Golf Shop, Racer Transportation, Murray Paint Paddle, and Smith’s Poultry. He also worked in insurance adjusting and consulting. Mike was a pilot and flew privately for years. He was an elder, deacon, and member at the First Christian Church. He served on various boards and committees and was involved with the West Area Ministry. Mike had a lifelong passion for golf. He coached the Murray High School Golf Team and was an avid player, winning more than 100 tournaments throughout his life. He also shared his love of the game by teaching lessons across Western Kentucky and Northwest Tennessee. Mike served on the Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce, was member of the Rotary, and was a part of the Independent Insurance Agents Association. In addition, Mike was a fourth generation Murray, Kentuckian.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one daughter, Michele Amberly Holton; as well as one sister, Patricia “Pat” Louise Holton.
Survivors include his wife, Vicky (Roberts) Holton of Murray, Kentucky; one daughter, Tory Holton Daughrity; formerly of Murray, Kentucky but now of Madison, Tennessee; one son, Drew Holton of Murray, Kentucky; and two grandchildren, Alyssa Brooke Daughrity of Murray, Kentucky and Hatcher Andrew Holton of Thompson Station, Tennessee. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Sally Batusic and husband Steve of Paducah, Kentucky and Cindy Smith of Paducah, Kentucky as well as Timothy Daughrity of Murray, Kentucky.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the First Christian Church with Rev. Chris Owens officiating. Immediately following the celebration of life, a memorial graveside service will be held in the Murray City Cemetery at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, August 21, 2025.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, Angel Community Fund, 803 Poplar Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071, First Christian Church, 111 North 5th Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071, or the SIDS Network of KY Inc., Louisville Office, P.O Box 5625, Louisville, Kentucky 40255.
Mr. Mark L. Kennedy, 77, of Murray, KY, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025 at Murray-Calloway County Hospital.
Mark was born on March 2, 1948 in Evansville, IN to the late Meredith “Ace” and Maxine Guthrie Kennedy.
Mr. Kennedy served honorably in the United States Marine Corps from 1965 to 1977, including three years in Vietnam from 1966 to 1969. During his military career, he was awarded 14 medals and ribbons, including the American Bronze Star with Combat “V”, the Vietnamese Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and the Combat Action Ribbon. His service was further recognized with three Meritorious Masts and three Certificates of Commendation.
Following his military service, he pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration from McKendree University in 1978 and an Associate Degree in Management Information Systems from the University of Kentucky in 1988. He went on to serve with distinction in the United States Postal Service, holding leadership positions including Postmaster in both Murray and Marion, Kentucky, and Manager at the Paducah Post Office. His dedication and integrity left a lasting impact on the communities he served.
Over the course of 33 years, Mark was also a tireless advocate for veterans, serving as a service officer — 24 years with the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs and 9 years with the American Legion. His work changed the lives of countless veterans and their families.
A passionate community leader, Mr. Kennedy was a past board chairman and member of the United Way of Murray-Calloway County and served as a volunteer ambassador for the Murray-Calloway County Chamber of Commerce. His commitment to youth and sports was equally inspiring — he coached youth soccer for 28 years across Western Kentucky, served as the boys’ high school soccer coach at Calloway County High School for six years, and coached the girls’ team at Murray High School for four years. He also dedicated 14 years to coaching youth baseball in Western Kentucky and Southern Indiana.
He is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Monte Kennedy; a sister, Marlene Stacer and a son in law, William Haney.
Those left to cherish many wonderful memories include his loving wife of 55 years, Mrs. Jackie Kennedy of Murray; two sons, Mark Kennedy (Brooke) of Evansville, IN, Monte M. Kennedy (Nicole) of Murray, KY; a daughter, Jennifer Lynn Haney of Noblesville, IN; two brothers, Mitchell Kennedy and Mickey Kennedy, both of Atlanta, GA; a sister, Melissa McDermott of FL; grandchildren, Kenzie Stanfield, Barkley Haney, Zachary Kennedy, Molly Kennedy, Samuel Kennedy, Penelope Kennedy, Oliver Kennedy and great grandchildren, Christopher Jase Stanfield, Blake Stanfield, Cole Haney.
A funeral mass honoring the life of Mr. Mark Kennedy is set for 10 AM on Monday, August 25, 2025 at St. Leo Catholic Church, 401 North 12th Street, Murray, KY 42071. Fr. Josh McCarty will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West, 5817 Fort Campbell Blvd, Hopkinsville, KY 42240.
His family welcomes visitors from 4 pm – 6 pm, with a vigil following from 6 pm – 7 pm, on Sunday, August 24, 2025 at St. Leo Catholic Church.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to CASA by the Lakes, P.O. Box 383, Murray, KY 42071.
Please join family and friends in honoring the life of Mr. Mark Kennedy by visiting www.imesfh.com to post your tributes and memories.
Diana Louise Mishica*
Oct. 27, 1951 – Aug. 15, 2025
Mrs. Diana Louise Mishica, 73, of Murray, KY, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025 at her home.
Diana was born on October 27, 1951 in Fort Monroe, VA to the late Richard and Anna Morrison Rehling. She was of Bahai faith.
She found joy early in life through the arts—especially high school theatre and photography. After attending college, she embarked on a career as a television engineer at KDOC, where her technical expertise and dedication left a lasting impression. Later, she served with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in California. Later in life she moved to Murray, KY, where she became an active member of Playhouse in the Park. She also generously volunteered her time with the Calloway County Fire and Rescue, further reflecting her giving spirit. Diana was also an amateur extra-class HAM radio operator, proudly known by her call sign K4IRU. Her favorite saying—”Be kind to others, especially yourself”—was more than a motto; it was how she lived her life. Diana will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
She is now reunited with her parents, Richard Cutler Rehling and Anna Louise Morrison and her husband, Joe L. Mishica.
Those left to cherish her memory include her beau, Mike Dowdy; her children, Amy Hatcher, Serena Craft (William), Michael Bonin (Jamie); siblings, Anton Rehling, Carol Weiss (Alan), Susan Bliss, John Rehling (Susan) and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A graveside service honoring her life is set for 9 AM on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at Murray City Cemetery. No public visitation will be held.
Please join family and friends in honoring the life of Diana Mishica by visiting www.imesfh.com to post your tributes and memories.
Sheila Harrison*
April 19, 1951 – Aug. 15, 2025
Mrs. Sheila A. Harrison, age 74, of Sedalia, Kentucky, passed away Friday, August 15, 2025, at her home.
Mrs. Harrison was born on April 19, 1951, in Mayfield, Kentucky, to the late Plase Tidwell and Bea Hendon Tidwell. She retired from the Murray Bank and was a member of the Coldwater Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Tidwell.
Survivors include her husband, Glenn Harrison of Sedalia, Kentucky, they married on April 5, 1974; three sons, David Harrison and wife Mechele of Mayfield, Kentucky, Jimmy Harrison and wife April of Sedalia, Kentucky and Tony Harrison of Nashville, Tennessee; brother, George Cochran of Sedalia, Kentucky; four grandchildren, Justin Harrison of Mayfield, Kentucky, Lane Freeman of South Carolina, Jordan Harrison of Owensboro, Kentucky and Tristen Harrison of Toledo, Ohio; three great grandchildren, Aliyah and Dalton Harrison both of Mayfield, Kentucky and Evertt Harrison of Owensboro, Kentucky.
Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at McGuire Cemetery. Bro. Robert Harwell will officiate. No public visitation will be held.
Expressions of sympathy may go to the McGuire Cemetery, 9783 St. Rt. 97, Sedalia, Kentucky 42079.
Mrs. Robbie Cruse (Chaney) Fisher, age 100, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Passion and Purpose HomeCare Assisted Living in Murray, Kentucky.
Mrs. Fisher was born on May 31, 1925, in Columbus, Kentucky, to the late Cruse Chaney and Robbie Eual (Mays) Chaney. She was a retired teachers aid and was of the Church of Christ Faith.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Gerald Fisher; one son, Donald Cruse Fisher; daughter-in-law, Kathleen Fisher; one sister, Corinee “Tootsie” Virgina Dewesse; two brothers, James Chaney and Johnny Chaney; two sisters-in-law, Sue Chaney and Patricia Chaney; one brother-in-law, Hilrey Dewesse; as well as one half-sister, Dorothy Brown.
Survivors include one daughter, Treva Jean Doores and husband Randy of Nashville, Tennessee; two sons, Monte Alan Fisher of Murray, Kentucky and Alvin Joel Fisher and wife Susan of Murray, Kentucky; one brother, Thomas Ray Chaney and wife Marie of St. Louis, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Candice Kathleen Moore and husband Justin of Searcy, Arkansas, Donald Chase Fisher and wife Julie of Brentwood, Tennessee, Channing Brooke Phillips and husband Chris of Nashville, Tennessee, John Lee Fisher and wife Heather of Paducah, Kentucky, Ellie Shea Royal and husband Joshua of Carmel, New York, Cody Thomas Doores and wife Leighton of Birmingham, Alabama, and Nicholas Fisher Doores and wife Abigail of Nashville, Tennessee; as well as 11 great-grandchildren, Marissa Jae Moore and Landon Cole Moore both of Searcy, Arkansas, Novi Cruse Fisher and Nash Cruse Fisher both of Brentwood, Tennessee, Margo Winnie Phillips of Nashville, Tennessee, John Lee Fisher II of Paducah, Kentucky, Brighton Elizabeth Royal and Joshua Fisher Royal both of Carmel, New York, Karow Elisabeth Doores and Ellis Kennington Doores both of Birmingham, Alabama, and Raya Lynn Doores of Nashville, Tennessee.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with John Dale and son-in-law, Randy Doores officiating. Burial will follow at the Elsey Cemetery in Bardwell, Kentucky at 3:30 p.m., Saturday, August 23, 2025. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Bardwell Church of Christ, 51 US-62, Bardwell, Kentucky 42023, Murray-Calloway County Senior Citizens Center, 607 Poplar Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071, or Angels Attic Thrift Shop, 972 Chestnut Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Mr. Johnnie Wayne Freeman, 69, of Hardin, KY, passed away on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at his home.
Mr. Freeman was born on September 26, 1955 in Durham, NC to the late Johnnie and Lena O’Bryant Freeman.
No services are planned at this time.
Imes Funeral Home is entrusted with caring for his family.
Byron J. Furgerson*
Sept. 10, 1941 – Aug. 13, 2025
Mr. Byron Junior Furgerson, age 83, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital in Murray, Kentucky.
Mr. Furgerson was born on September 10, 1941, in Dexter, Kentucky to the late Wesley Byron Furgerson and Katie Inell (Walston) Furgerson. He was retired from General Tire, United States Army Veteran, and attended the Coldwater Church of Christ.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Ann (Adams) Furgerson who passed away in 2024; his beloved son, Adam Wesley Furgerson; as well as one brother-in-law, George Clark.
Survivors include two sisters, Jenny Clark of Almo, Kentucky and Mary Frances Ramsey and husband Eddie of Dexter, Kentucky; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 3:30 p.m., Monday, August 18, 2025, at the Coldwater Church of Christ Cemetery with Rev. Tim Palmer officiating. Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m., Monday, August 18, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy may go to the Coldwater Church of Christ Cemetery Fund ℅ Larry Bundy, 303 Oakdale Drive, Murray, Kentucky 42071 or to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.
Mr. Palmer G. Keathley, 81, of New Concord, KY, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at his home.
Mr. Keathley was born on June 19, 1944 in Galveston, KY to the late Robert and Myrtle Howell Keathley. He was a retired meat cutter from Kroger.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Tennessee.
Imes Funeral Home is entrusted with caring for his family.
Harold Wayne Moss*
Aug. 13, 1940 – Aug. 12, 2025
Mr. Harold Wayne Moss, age 84, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away, Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at his home.
Mr. Moss was born on August 13, 1940, in Calloway County, Kentucky, to the late Herman W. Moss and Rosanell (Karnes) Moss. He worked for Tappan for 19 years and was car dealer as well. Mr. Moss was a member of the First United Methodist Church.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son-in-law, Timothy Alton; one brother-in-law, Harold Culver; as well as one nephew, Keith Owen Culver.
Survivors include his wife, Frances Ann (Walston) Moss of Murray, Kentucky; two daughters, Johnda Ann Alton and Jill Renee McCuiston and husband Dr. Steve all of Murray, Kentucky; one sister, Gloria Culver of Nashville, Tennessee; one brother, James Russell Moss and wife Rachel of Murray, Kentucky; two grandchildren, Wesley Evan McCuiston and Connor McCuiston both of Murray, Kentucky; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Servies. There will be no public service following or prior to the visitation.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Humane Society of Calloway County, 607 Poplar Street, Suite A1, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Mr. Jack Henry Michael, Jr., 81 of Hazel, KY, formerly of Hinckley, IL, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House in Murray, KY.
Born July 2, 1944, in Shreveport, LA, Jack was the son of the late Jack Henry Michael, Sr. and Maryon (Pahaly) Michael. He honorably served his country in the US Army as a Drill Sergeant and continued to show his patriotism as a member of the American Legion Post 598, formerly serving as Post Commander. Jack spent his career as a sales representative for Exmark Mowers and Olsen Distribution and was a member of the Hinckley Methodist Church.
Those left to cherish Jack’s memory are his wife of 54 years, Barbara R. (Olsen) Michael of Hazel; a daughter, Jacquelyn Renee “Jacki” Seaney (Jay Morgan) of Hazel; sons, Thomas O. Michael of Sandwich, IL, and Timothy I. Michael (Becky) of Cortland, IL; a brother, Daniel James Michael (Romie) of Aurora, IL, and a sister, Pamela Ann Fernald of Merrimac, WI. Jack was a proud grandfather of Courtney Michael, Brittany Sabalaskey, Tyler Jablonski, Casandra Seaney, Austin Seaney, and three great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by brothers, Eugene A. Michael, Keith Michael and Gregory B. Michael; sisters, Bonnie Williams and Mae Marie Winckler; sister-in-law, Cheri Michael; daughter-in-law, Connie Pfeiffer; son-in-law, Douglas Seaney; and nephew, Jason Fernald.
A graveside service will be held at a later date, at the Greenwood Cemetery in Hinckley, IL, no local services will be scheduled.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Michael. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Jared Stephen Plummer*
Aug. 21, 1978 – Aug. 2, 2025
Jared Stephen Plummer, age 46, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, formerly of Murray, Kentucky, passed away, Saturday August 2, 2025, at his home.
Jared was a graduate of Murray State University and had attended Experience Community Church in Murfreesboro. He had worked in the computer technology field.
Jared is survived by his children, Addison Plummer Bryan and husband Alec, Ian Plummer, Brock Plummer, Sean Plummer; mother, Deborah Anne Plummer; brother, Derek William Plummer and wife Jennifer; niece, Aubrey, and nephew, Nick.
A private family service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be left here.
Woodfin Memorial Chapel in Murfreesboro is in charge of cremation arrangements.
Gregory Keith Wood*
Jan. 25, 1962 – Aug. 10, 2025
Mr. Gregory Keith Wood, age 63, of Ellsinore, Missouri passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital.
Mr. Wood was born in Butler County, Missouri on January 25, 1962, to the late Victor Keith Wood and Ilene (Sisco) Wood. Mr. Wood was currently serving as Captain for the Northeast Ambulance and Fire Protection District in St. Louis, Missouri.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Wood was preceded in death by one nephew, Matthew Wood; and by a nephew-in-law, Harold Meyers.
Mr. Wood is survived by his wife, Jaime Lynn Wood of Cedar Hill, Missouri; two daughters, Pamela Robbins and husband Jason of Hardin, Kentucky and Jessica Morrow and husband Ryan of South Roxana, Illinois; one son, Craig Wood of Wood River, Illinois; two brothers, Chris Wood and wife Dixie of Ellsinore, Missouri and Roger Wood and wife Sherri of Oran, Missouri; five grandchildren, Jacob and Payton Robbins both of Hardin, Kentucky, Ian, Liam and Avi Morrow all of South Roxana, Illinois; as well as several nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Randy Stevenson will officiate, and burial will follow in the Wadesboro Cemetery in Hardin, Kentucky. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral service on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
Mrs. Nancy J. Keathley, 80, of New Concord, KY, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at her home.
Mrs. Keathley was born on December 20, 1944, in Trenton, Michigan to the late Benjamin and Anne Lindsey Patten.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date in Tennessee.
Imes Funeral Home & Crematory is entrusted with caring for her family.
Debra Jean Peck*
April 30, 1960 – Aug. 8, 2025
Debra Jean Peck, 65, of Fredonia, KY, passed away on Friday, August 8, 2025.
Debra was born in Paducah, KY on April 30, 1960 to the late Elmer and Sylvia Darnell Collins. She loved to ride motocycles in her younger years and adored spending time with her family.
She is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Joe Ed Hester, Tony Collins, Steve Collins and a sister, Shirley Higgins.
She lovingly leaves behind two sons, Jerry Peck of Paducah, KY, Brandon Teeters (Kaylee) of Fredonia, KY; one daughter, Tammy Stinnett (Rodney) of Fredonia, KY; one brother, Larry Collins of Paducah, KY; two sisters, Diane Coleman of Paducah, KY and Ollie Nell Higgins of Mayfield, KY. She also leaves behind four grandchildren, Tara, Dylan, Colton, Emmy and four great grandchildren, Raelynn, Daxton, Luka and Remi.
A celebration of Debra’s life will be held at a later date.
Imes Funeral Home is entrusted with caring for her family.
David L. Morgan*
May 12, 1947 – Aug. 10, 2025
Mr. David L. Morgan, age 78, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the Murray–Calloway County Hospital.
Mr. Morgan was born on May 12, 1947, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, to the late Don Martell Morgan and Sadie (Dixon) Morgan. David graduated from Mt. Vernon Township High School in 1965 and was a 1969 graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science in Education. He retired from Morrisonville High School, where he taught mathematics for 32 years. He virtually attended Immanuel Baptist Church, where his nephew, Chris Morgan, pastors.
Known as “Dad,” “Grandpa,” “Mr. Morgan,” “Mister,” and “Uber Dave,” he could always be counted on for jokes and puns. David enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling to all fifty states, cheering on his grandchildren in their activities, following baseball and basketball, and was known as a “legend” to the friends he met while playing online historical fantasy baseball.
Survivors include his wife, Dee Ann (Stewart) Morgan of Murray, Kentucky, they married on June 1, 1968, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois; one daughter, Cathy Morris and husband Johnny of Murray, Kentucky; one brother, Bill Morgan and wife Karen of Huntsville, Alabama; two grandchildren, Jayden David Morris and Kaylee Brooke Morris, both of Murray, Kentucky; two nephews, Chris Morgan and wife Shelley of Highland, California and Todd Morgan and wife Jennifer of Huntsville, Alabama; two great nephews, Tyler Morgan and Carson Morgan, both of Huntsville, Alabama; and one great niece, Chelsey Morgan of Highland, California.
A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m., Friday, August 15, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Pastor Chris Morgan will officiate, and an interment service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Oakwood Cemetery in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.
Expressions of sympathy may go to California Baptist University for the Morgan Endowed Scholarship to support students preparing for ministry – every dollar given in honor of David Morgan will be quadruple matched (please make checks payable to California Baptist University and write “Morgan Scholarship” in the notes; mail to Dr. Chris Morgan, CBU, 8432 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, California 92504) – or the Friends of L.B.L., 345 Maintenance Road, Cadiz, Kentucky 42211.
Mr. Curtis C. Warner, 67 of Murray, KY, passed away Sunday, August 10, 2025, at his home.
Born October 22, 1957, in Elkhart, IN, Curtis was the son of the late Vernon Harry Warner and Rose Marie (Murabito) Warner-Sebert. He spent many years on the road as a self-employed owner-operator for Warner Trucking leasing his truck to Mercer Transportation Company. Before beginning his trucking career, he retired from General Tire, Inc., as a tuber on the radial tire line. Curtis was of Church of Christ faith.
Those left to cherish memories of Curtis include his loving wife of 49 years, Lita (Housden) Warner; his daughter, Lisa Ann Lamb and husband Rick, of Murray; and his son Terry C. Warner and wife Robin of Murray. He was a proud grandfather to Katherine Herndon of Murray, J.W. Lamb of Cuba, KY, Garrett Lamb of Murray, Jacob Robert Warner of Clearwater, FL, Alivia Marie Warner, Timothy Gerald Sheridan, and Shalyn Brooke Cashion, all of Murray and 9 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his siblings, Virgil (Phyllis) Warner of Aurora, Sam Warner of Murray, Judith Denno of Niles, MI, Sandy Warner of Mishawaka, IN and David Warner of Muncie, IN; and brother-in-law, Al Syrette of Buchanan, MI; as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Curtis was preceded in death by a sister, Catherine Syrette; a sister-in-law, Carolyn Warner; and brother-in-law, Jim Denno.
A funeral service celebrating Curtis’ life will be held Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home in Murray, with John Dale officiating. Entombment will follow at the Murray Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.
Friends may visit with the family between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, at Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, 713 S. 4th St. Murray, KY 42071.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Warner. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Donnie R. “Boone” Thomas, Sr.* (Updated 8/12/25)
March 27, 1952 – Aug. 8, 2025
Mr. Donnie Ray “Boone” Thomas, Sr., 73, of Murray, KY, passed away Friday, August 8, 2025, at the Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice House in Paducah, KY.
Boone was born on March 27, 1952, in Hickman County, KY, to the late Sammie Thomas Jr. and Mary Elizabeth (Partee) Thomas of Columbus, KY. He was a dedicated and hardworking man, having worked for Hutson Ag Services/Royster Clark for 37 years, and later retiring from the Calloway County Road Department as a truck driver after 22 years.
Boone was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and is survived by his children, Deneshia Hayes of Mayfield, Donnie Ray Thomas, Jr. (Michelle) of Murray, Stacy Thomas of Paducah, and Felicia Alfred (Stephon) of Louisville; his grandchildren, Brittany Young, Bridgette Young, Brianna Young, Brenna Young, Kamren Baker, Micah Baker, Nolton Alfred, and Alicia Thomas; and seven great-grandchildren. Boone also leaves behind siblings, Ronnie Thomas (Diane) of Paducah, Janet Thomas Williams (Tony Barnett) of Wingo, Charlotte Morris (Shelton) of Mayfield, Bonnie Thomas of Columbus, and Reba Thomas of Paducah. His beloved fur babies, Rambo, Bailey Mae, and Daisy Duke were also an important part of his life. A host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, and friends will also cherish his memory.
Boone was preceded in death by his father, Sammie Thomas, Jr.; his wife of over 40 years Norma Jean (Williams) Thomas; a brother, Jerry Glenn Thomas; and a grandson, Brennon Young.
Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, with Reverend Michael Pickens of New Life Church and Reverend Henry Greer officiating. Burial will immediately follow the service at the Mt. Sinai Church Cemetery in Oakton, KY.
Friends may visit with the family after 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, until the funeral hour at the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, 713 South 4th Street, Murray, KY 42071.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mr. Thomas. Please share your messages of condolence by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Ramona Villeneuve*
Sept. 4, 1946 – Aug. 6, 2025
Mrs. Ramona Villeneuve, age 78, of Murray, Kentucky passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
Mrs. Villeneuve was born in Elizabethtown, North Carolina on September 4, 1946, to the late Glenn Wilson and Lessie (Carter) Wilson. Mrs. Villeneuve retired after 36 years as a school bus driver for the Calloway County School System and was a member of the Bethel Fellowship Church.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Villeneuve was preceded in death by two sisters, Virginia Almond and Anna Davis; and by five brothers, Winford, Gene, Edwind, Max, and Gideon Wilson.
Mrs. Villeneuve is survived by her husband, John “Sonny” Villeneuve of Murray, Kentucky; two sons, Ronnie Bryan of Lafayette, Indiana and Michael Bryan of Greenville, South Carolina; two sisters, Emma Dunning and Portia Taylor; four grandchildren, Jessica Bryan, Thomas Bryan, Sarah Bryan, and Breanna Bryan; as well as 10 great grandchildren, Bryson, Madison, Avery, Baeliegh, Branson, Brooklyn, Kaeliegh, Kevin, Maxwell, and Parker.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Murray Memorial Gardens. Chris King will officiate, and burial will follow. There will be no public visitation.
Mr. Mark Steven Smith, 68 of Benton, KY, passed away Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, Murray, KY.
Born October 26, 1956, in Detroit, MI, Mark was the son of the late Rudy Clayton and Lois Louise (Hainley) Smith. A life-long mason by trade, Mark built a legacy through his business, Smith Masonry of Kirksey, KY, where his dedication and skill left a lasting mark on the community. Beyond his work, Mark was a passionate outdoorsman. As the owner and guide of Hunt West KY, a hunting lodge in Marion, KY, he shared his love for big game hunting with countless others.
Those left to cherish Mark’s memory include his daughters, Brandi Smith Green (Dustin) and Bridget Smith, both of Benton, KY; brothers, Danny Smith (Kathy) of Benton, KY, Jack Smith (Karen) and Jody M. Smith, both of Kirksey, KY; and sister, Sonja Howard (Roger) of Benton, KY; and much-loved grandchildren, Kinleigh, Mason, Carter, and Cooper. Also surviving are his companion, Susan Suiter of Murray, KY; his loving fur baby, Sarah; and many other cherished family members.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Rita Smith.
A service celebrating Mark’s life will be held Monday, August 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home in Murray, with Bro. Brett Miles officiating. Burial will immediately follow the service, in the Mt. Olive Cemetery, Kirksey, KY.
Friends may visit with the family between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, 713 S. 4th St. Murray, KY 42071.
The family requests that memorial contributions in Mark’s memory be made to Mt. Olive Cemetery Fund, c/o Michael Kendall, 893 Kendall Rd., Mayfield, KY 42066 or to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, c/o The Foundation at MCCH, 803 Poplar St. Murray, KY 42071.Mr. Mark Steven Smith, 68 of Benton, KY, passed away Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, Murray, KY.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is privileged to be entrusted with the care of Mark. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Ruetta Turner*
Oct. 7, 1939 – Aug. 6, 2025
Mrs. Ruetta Overby Turner, age 85, of Murray, Kentucky passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital in Murray, Kentucky.
Mrs. Turner was born on October 7, 1939, in Murray, Kentucky to the late Rue Overby and Louise (Hight) Overby. She was a homemaker and a nurse’s aide. Mrs. Turner was a member of the Murray First United Methodist Church in Murray, Kentucky having been apart of the Togetherness Sunday School Class, United Methodist Women, Ruth Wilson Circle, and Covenant Prayer Group.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Lee Turner; paternal grandparents, Joe Robert and Betty Overby; maternal grandparents, Ila and Ola Hight; as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Survivors include her son, Russell Turner (Nikita) of Murray, Kentucky; step-daughter, Linda Turner of Murray, Kentucky; step-son, Ricky Turner (Carla West) of Murray, Kentucky; brother, Joe Overby (Linda) of Owensboro, Kentucky as well as his children, Mason Andrew Overby, Jordan Hight Overby, Lindsey Clayton Overby, and Maxon Marie Overby; as well as two step-grandchildren, Jeff Eldridge of Almo, Kentucky and Christy Runyon of Springville, Tennessee.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Pastor Jeff Rudy and Bro. Jim Stahler officiating. Entombment will follow in the Murray Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Monday, August 11, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Murray First United Methodist Church, 503 Maple Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Mr. Samuel E. Willett, age 85, of Murray, Kentucky passed away, Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House in Murray, Kentucky.
Mr. Willett was born on July 13, 1940, in Carlisle County, Kentucky to the late Thomas Wilfred Willett and Catherine Estella (Cash) Willett. He retired as a manufacturer manager with BFGoodrich and was a member of the St. Leo Catholic Church in Murray, Kentucky. Mr. Willett was a charter member of The Knights of Columbus.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Joyce Anne Willett and Nora Sue Tacoma; as well as four brothers, William Thomas Willett, Thomas William “Buddy Willett, Joseph “Joe” Orville Willett, and Franklin Wilfred Willett.
Survivors include his wife, Patricia (Nance) Willett of Murray, Kentucky, they married on July 24, 1965, in Murray, Kentucky; two daughters, Stacey Weaver and husband Terry of Senoia, Georgia and Marcie Leonard and husband Jeremy of Melber, Kentucky; one sister, Dora Willett of California; one brother, Charles Willett and wife Gay of Mayfield, Kentucky; as well as three grandchildren, Emily Lisicia and husband Mac of Savannah, Georgia, Madeline Leonard of Melber, Kentucky, and Joselyn Leonard of Melber, Kentucky.
A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the St. Leo Catholic Church in Murray, Kentucky with Father Josh McCarty officiating. Burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, August 8, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105-9959 or to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, 803 Poplar Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Mr. Jerry Don Tucker, age 71, of Kirksey, Kentucky, passed away Monday, August 4, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital in Murray, Kentucky.
Mr. Tucker was born on February 26, 1954, in Calloway County, Kentucky to the late Dale Tucker and Zetra Roach Tucker. He retired from General Tire and was a Truck Driver. Mr. Tucker was of the Baptist Faith.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Sylvia Tucker; as well as two brothers, John L. Tucker and Bobby Tucker.
Survivors include his wife Barbara Burkeen of Murray, Kentucky; two step daughters, Rebecca Rouse and husband Michael of Union City, Tennessee and Kristy Obryan and husband Corey of Murray, Kentucky; 16 step grandchildren; five step great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m., Friday, August 8, 2025, at the Mt. Carmel Cemetery with Bro. Dale Taylor officiating. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 8, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to Serenity Recovery of Western Kentucky, Inc., 1608 Highway 121 Bypass North, Suite E, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Nolan Ryan Todd, 27, of Murray, KY, passed away in his sleep on Monday, August 4, 2025, at his home.
Born July 31, 1998, in Murray, KY, Nolan was the son of Richard D. and Carolyn J. Todd of Murray, KY, and the brother of Rachel C. Todd. He was a 2017 graduate of Murray High School and graduated from West Kentucky Community and Technical College with a degree in Industrial Maintenance. He was employed in the logistics department at Rudolph Freight and recently celebrated his sixth anniversary there. Nolan was a member of the Journey Church in Murray.
Though Nolan’s life was far too short, it was filled with the love of family and friends. Nolan was passionate about traveling, outdoor activities, and helping others. He will be remembered for his kindness, infectious energy, and the way he made everyone feel like a valued friend. Nolan lived life to the fullest and never let his diagnosis of epilepsy hold him back from enjoying all that life had to offer.
Those left to cherish Nolan’s memory include his parents; sister (Justin Metcalfe); maternal grandparents, J.B. and Joyce Slaton of Madisonville, KY; and paternal grandmother, Dorothy Dycus Pierce (Frank Pierce) of Paducah, KY. Also surviving are several aunts, uncles, cousins, and fond memories from those who met him.
Nolan was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, David Dycus.
A service celebrating Nolan’s life will be held Friday, August 8, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel of the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home in Murray. Richard D. Todd will coordinate the service for his son. Others will be speaking about Nolan’s passion for life, willingness to help others, and ability to connect with anyone who crossed his path.
Friends may visit with the family beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8, 2025, and will conclude with the service at 6:00 p.m. at the Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home, 713 S. 4th St. Murray, KY 42071.
To match Nolan’s generosity, his family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Towing for Toys, Inc., to meet the needs of the Murray and Calloway County Schools Youth Resource Centers as they fulfill the needs of local youth. Donations can be made at www.towingfortoys.com/donate or 516 S. 12th St., Murray, KY 42071.
Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation Services is privileged to be entrusted with the care of Nolan. Please share your messages of condolence with the family by signing his virtual guestbook at www.blalockcolemanfuneralhome.com.
Donna P. Gammon*
Oct. 11, 1941 – Aug. 3, 2025
Ms. Donna Paulette Gammon, age 83, of Murray, Kentucky passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Baptist Health in Paducah, Kentucky.
Ms. Gammon was born in Evansville, Indiana on October 11, 1941, to the late Acie Collie Bailey and Pauline (Byrd) Bailey. Ms. Gammon was a retired accountant for an automobile firm in Atlanta, Georgia. She was a member of the Westside Baptist Church.
In addition to her parents, Ms. Gammon was preceded in death by two sisters, Ramona Evans and Cindy Gillihan; son-in-law, Jessie Outland; niece, Kelly Cherry: and nephew, Tony Evans.
Ms. Gammon is survived by one daughter, Paula Outland of Murray, Kentucky; one son, John Gammon of Murray, Kentucky; two sisters, Debbie Sawyers of Puryear, Tennessee and Vickie Bailey of Nashville, Tennessee; two brothers, Dan Bailey and wife Barbie of Benton, Kentucky, and Jimmy Bailey and wife Kelly of Kirksey, Kentucky; one grandchild, Jessie Outland, Jr. of Atlanta; one great grandchild, Jaxen Outland of Atlanta; best friend, Sally Compton of Louisville, Kentucky; as well as several nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Dr. Merrick Dunn officiating. Burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Westside Baptist Church Building Fund, 207 Robertson Road South, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Join us for an inside look at how we care for women at every stage of life.
• Friday, August 15
• 1 pm – 2 pm (Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting at 1:15 pm)
• Women’s Health of Murray, 300 South 8th Street, Medical Arts Bldg. Suite 480W, Murray, KY 42071
Tour our newly updated clinic
Meet our compassionate care team
Free refreshments & health resources
Whether you’re a patient, a provider, or a community member — we’d love to see you there!
During the open house, the community will have the opportunity to meet the staff and learn more about Women’s Health services.
For more information about Women’s Health of Murray, contact the MCCH Marketing Department at marketing@murrayhospital.org.
The phrase is so familiar to us all: “You have the right to remain silent.” Most are even able to repeat the remaining rights without much thought or hesitation. The Miranda Warning has been recited by countless law enforcement officers and television actors for going on five decades. But what is not so clear to those not educated in the finer points of the law is just when the warning must be given by the police.
FALSE: The police must advise every arrested person of the Miranda Warning.
THE TRUTH: The police are never required to advise anyone of his or her Miranda rights. If a police officer arrests a person and never speaks even one sentence of the warning, that arrest is still a valid arrest. The Miranda Warning is not mandatory.
There are two magic words associated with the Miranda Warning: custodial interrogation. Custodial has been interpreted to mean that a reasonable person would not feel free to leave a particular situation or setting. If a police officer is conducting an investigation, and tells a person that he or she is not free to leave, then for purposes of the Miranda Warning, that person is being detained; or to use the key word, in custody. An interrogation occurs when a person is being asked questions which are likely to illicit an incriminating response. The question “what is your address?” is most likely not interrogatory. However, “did you shoot the victim?” may result in an incriminating response, and thus would be considered part of an interrogation.
Once a police officer is engaged in a custodial interrogation of a suspect, the officer must advise that person of the Miranda Warning, right? WRONG. Only if the officer intends for that person’s statements to be used as evidence against him or her should the officer advise the person of the rights. If the officer obtains information that is incriminating from the suspect, and the warning was never spoken prior to those incriminating statements, then the statements may be excluded from the case-in-chief, or initial presentation of evidence, at the trial. There is no other recourse. Statements still may be used to impeach the person’s credibility on cross-examination if the person testifies in his or her defense.
As you can see, the Miranda Warning is not as powerful as many believe it to be. It is very narrowly applied and does not always guarantee that incriminating statements will never be heard in a court of law. If you are arrested, do not expect to be advised of your Miranda rights. You will likely be disappointed.
*This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to constitute legal advice, is not a substitute for professional legal counsel, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. This is for general knowledge and should not be relied upon for specific legal situations.
Chris Hendricks is an attorney in Murray, Kentucky. A native of Murray, he earned a Bachelor of Arts from Murray State University. Chris was employed in law enforcement for 11 years before pursuing a career in the practice of law. After earning his law degree from Southern Illinois University School of Law, Chris received a license to practice law in Kentucky in 2014. He focuses on criminal defense, appeals, personal injury and family law. He resides in Murray with his wife. They have two daughters, ages 22 and 19.
Join us at Bolin Books in Downtown Murray in celebrating Bookstore Romance Day on Saturday, August 9! We’ll have dozens of new romance titles on our shelves and special displays throughout the shop.
Independent bookstores throughout the US began celebrating Bookstore Romance Day in 2023 to spotlight the incredible impact romance fiction has on the book world and to celebrate the romance readers who embraced and elevated the genre. Bookstore Romance Day is all about creating a joyful, community-driven celebration focused on love stories in all their forms.
Bolin Books is a used and rare independent bookstore in Downtown Murray. We’ll be open from 9 AM to 6 PM on Bookstore Romance Day and hope to see you there!
