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Obituaries – January 2026

We source obituaries from local funeral homes โ€“ Blalock-Coleman Funeral Home & Cremation ServicesImes Funeral Home & Crematory and J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Listings are updated daily at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., including weekends and holidays, and periodically throughout the day. Please click on the decedentโ€™s name to see their obituary. *Denotes complete obituary.


Jo Annette (Farley) Urton

Nov. 4, 1937 – Jan. 11, 2026

Mrs. Jo Annette (Farley) Urton, age 88, of Dennison, Texas, formerly of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Beacon Hills Nursing Home in Dennison, Texas.

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

Marjorie E. Major

Dec. 29, 1941 – Jan. 11, 2026

Additional information is currently unavailable.

David Edward Powell*

June 3, 1960 – Jan. 8, 2026

Mr. David Edward Powell, 65, of Murray, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at his home.

David was born on June 3, 1960 in Lawton, OK to the late Louis Powell, Jr. and Mary Jane Kijowski.  He proudly served his country in the United States Army. David loved model aircrafts and taking day trips with his beloved animals. He will be dearly missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Those left to cherish his memory include his fiancรฉ, Kim Wallace of Murray; three brothers, Richard Powell (Donna), Scott Powell (Reed), Andy Powell (Gwen), all of Texas and several nieces and nephews.

No services will be held at this time.

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

Steven L. Randolph

Oct. 8, 1951 – Jan. 11, 2026

Mr. Steven L. Randolph, age 74, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House in Murray, Kentucky.

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

John โ€œJohnnyโ€ Thomas Gingles*

July 1, 1951 – Jan. 6, 2026

John โ€œJohnnyโ€ Thomas Gingles, age 74, died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, on January 6, 2026.

Johnny was born on July 1, 1951, in Murray, Kentucky, to Rob and Gwen (Nance) Gingles. He graduated from Murray High School in 1969 and Murray State University in 1973.

He taught physical education at North Elementary and, over his 27-year career, coached various sports at Calloway County High School. Upon retiring from teaching, he continued to work and serve the community as the elected District Four Magistrate for 23 years. In addition, he served eight years as a member of the Murray-Calloway County Parks Board and 20 on the Calloway County Board of Health. In 2011, Governor Steve Beshear appointed him a Kentucky Colonel.

Johnny was also well known for his hobbies and side businesses, including starting and running the Penny Pumpkin Patch in 1992 with his children. In 2008, he established the Penny Grocery Museum, filled with Calloway County historical memorabilia. An avid collector, he collected everything from baseball cards and antique signs to Murray and Calloway County memorabilia.

He enjoyed Murray State and University of Kentucky sports, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the St. Louis Cardinals, and playing and watching golf. He was a member of Glendale Road Church of Christ. Most recently, he authored the book Growing Up in Calloway County in the 50โ€™s and 60โ€™s: My Memories.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Gingles, who passed away at home on December 30, 2025; a sister he lost at birth, Nancy Ann Gingles; and his longtime loyal companion, his dog Chester.

He is survived by his mother, Gwen; his son Rob Gingles and wife Kayla of Murray; his son Hunter Gingles of Murray; and his daughter, Ellen Prinzi of Jupiter, Florida. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Luke and Samantha Prinzi, Piper Gingles, Sawyer McCuiston, Aiden Marr, Lukas Mitchell, Bella McCadams, and Zayne Barnard.

He leaves behind his beloved dog, Finnie, who fiercely watched over him in his final years.

Visitation will be held at J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with a private family burial to follow. John Dale will officiate the funeral service. This will be a joint service with his brother, Jimmy Gingles.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Penny Grocery Museum, c/o Hunter Gingles at 175 Coleman Trail, Murray, KY 42071.

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

Pamela Kay Zeglicz*

Jan. 26, 1959 – Jan. 5, 2026

Ms. Pamela Kay Zeglicz, 66, of Murray, KY, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026 at Spring Creek Healthcare in Murray.

Pam was born on January 26, 1959 in Murray, KY to the late Wesley and Malloy Graves Russell. Pam was a devoted mother, daughter and friend.  She adored her beloved pets, Lucy and Molly, as well as, her grandpets, Mimi, Ginger and Stoli.  She will be dearly missed.

She is preceded in death by her parents; a brother Mark Russell and a sister, Debbie Shekell.

Those left to cherish her memory include her life partner, Gary Brown of Murray; her son, Michael Zeglicz (Natalie) of IL; her daughters, Michelle Lombardo (Mike) of IL, Nicole Correa (Tony) of IL; a brother, Todd Russell of Murray; grandchildren, Mikey, Marissa, Cash, Chase, Payton and Camden. Also surviving is a special caregiver, Liz. 

No services are planned at this time.

Imes Funeral Home is entrusted with caring for her family.

Patti Jean Pierson* (Updated 1/6/26)

March 28, 1966 – Jan. 4, 2026

Mrs. Patti Jean Pierson, 59, of Murray, passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House.

Patti was born in Kanawha, WV on March 28, 1966 to the late Guy and Lahoma Hart Wagner.

She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially during the Christmas season, which she cherished deeply. She loved the warmth, comfort, and tradition of Christmas, often spending her time watching Hallmark movies and romantic television shows. A true bargain hunter at heart, she delighted in shopping the clearance aisles and finding the best deals.

Above all else, she adored time spent with her family. She was a devoted and loving wife and mother. Her dogs held a special place in her heart. Patti fought bravely and with unwavering strength until the very end and will be dearly missed.

She is preceded in death by her parents and three siblings, Linda Wagner, Carmen Curry and Chucky Wagner

Those she lovingly leaves behind include her husband of 19 years, Mr. Gene Pierson of Dexter, KY; her son, Adam Person of WV; a daughter Cindi Adkins of WV; a brother, Tom Wagner of WV; four sisters, Jodi Wagner of WV (William Casey), Nancy Bryan of WV, Cathy Tucker (Paul) of TX, Barbara Wagner of WV and four grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 PM on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Imes Funeral Home & Crematory, 311 North 4th Street, Murray, KY 42071 with Kerry Lambert officiating. 

Her family welcomes visitors from 11 AM – 12:30 PM at the funeral home.

Virginia I. Galloway*

Feb. 2, 1927 – Jan. 4, 2026

Mrs. Virginia Inez Galloway, age 98, of Almo, Kentucky, passed away Sunday, January 4, 2026, at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House.

Mrs. Galloway was born in Almo, Kentucky on February 2, 1927, to the late Coy Williams and Allie Duncan Williams. She was a homemaker and a member of the Temple Hill Community Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband; Billy Nat Galloway; one grandson, David Roberts; two brothers, Glenn and Matthew Williams; as well as one son-in-law, Larry Roberts.

Survivors include one daughter, Donna Roberts; one son, Bobby Galloway (Beverly); three grandchildren, Kimberly Roberts (Erin), Michael Galloway (Stacey), and John Galloway (Kelly); as well as one great-grandchild, Jake Galloway.

A private family graveside will be held at Temple Hill Cemetery with Rev. Tim. Palmer officiating.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, 803 Poplar Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071 or the Temple Hill Cemetery Fund c/o Warren Hopkins Law Office, 405B Maple Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.

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

J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services are in charge of arrangements.

Robert Grizzard*

Jan. 15, 1954 – Jan. 3, 2026

Mr. Robert Ray Grizzard, age 71, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the Jackson Madison General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee.

Mr. Grizzard was born on January 15, 1954, in Davidson County, Tennessee to the late Carl Q. Grizzard and Alice Waggoner Grizzard. He was a retired truck driver and a member of the Midway Grace Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Glenda Johnson, Carlene Torsak, and Deloris Johnson.

Survivors include one son, Michael Grizzard of Hendersonville, Tennessee, four sisters, Debby Branam of Paris, Tennessee, Dianne Wyman of Paris, Tennessee, Pamela Dube of Murray, Kentucky, and Ruby Jean Stewart-Vea of Murray, Kentucky; one brother, Carl Grizzard Jr. of Dover, Tennessee; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Hicks Cemetery with Pastor Darrell Young officiating.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Midway Grace Church, P.O. Box 377, Hazel, Kentucky 42049.

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

Elisabeth Godar*

Oct. 29, 1956 – Jan. 2, 2026

Mrs. Elisabeth Enger Godar, age 69, of Murray, Kentucky, passed away Friday, January 2, 2026, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital.

Mrs. Godar was born on October 29, 1956, in Peoria, Illinois to the late Daniel and Lois Fletcher Shotwell. She was owner and operator of Enger Carpet Binding. She was a graduate of Murray State University with a B.S. and was one of Jehovahโ€™s Witnesses.

Survivors include her husband, Dave Godar of Murray, Kentucky; daughter, Katie Dixon and husband Donnie of Bowling Green, Kentucky; two sons, Adam Godar and wife Natalie of Big Rapids, Michigan, and Aaron Godar of Salt Lake City, Utah; two sisters, Karen VanDyck of Portland, Oregan and Sandra Shotwell of Baltimore, Maryland; brother, Dan Shotwell and wife Mel of Spencer, Ohio; as well as several nieces and nephews along with her fur baby, Saucy.

A memorial service will be held via zoom. Day and time to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Murray-Calloway County Animal Shelter, 81 Shelter Ln. Murray, Kentucky 42071.

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

Betty Jean Bryson*

Oct. 24, 1944 – Jan. 2, 2026

Mrs. Betty Jean Bryson, age 81, of New Concord, Kentucky, passed away Friday, January 2, 2026, at the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House.

Mrs. Bryson was born in Nashville, Tennessee, on October 24, 1944, to the late H.C. Smith and Mary Norene (Pack) Smith. Mrs. Bryson was in the insurance industry for over 50 years in Nashville, Tennessee.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Bryson was preceded in death by one sister, Nancy Smith Hill.

Mrs. Bryson is survived by her husband, Gary โ€œCowboyโ€ Moore Bryson, of New Concord, Kentucky, to whom she married on September 25, 1987, in Springfield, Tennessee; one daughter, Tammy Rene LaTourette and husband Alan; two sisters, Linda Smith Dixon and Sherrie Smith Reid; three grandchildren, Austin Tyler Hall and wife Morgan, Rachel Shay LaTourette, and Trace Alan LaTourette; two great grandchildren, Hendon Richard Hall and Lofton Tyler Hall; as well as many loved nieces and nephews; and best friend, Ann Williams.

There will be no public services held at this time.

The J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services are in charge of arrangements.

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

Wyvonne Rudolph*

Oct. 16, 1951 – Jan. 1, 2026

Mrs. Wyvonne Rudolph, age 74, of Dexter, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at her home after an extended illness.

She was born on October 16, 1951, in Murray, KY to the late Joseph Rafe Brooks & Annie Helen Ragsdale-Brooks.

She was a 1969 graduate of Calloway County High School of which she was voted Most Studious and later attended and graduated from Ezellโ€™s School of Cosmetology. She was a beautician at Patty Annโ€™s Beauty Shop for 11 years before becoming a stay-at-home mother and homemaker. Several years later, she was employed as a preschool aid at the Calloway County Preschool.

Wyvonne was known for her quick wit and outgoing personality. She never met a stranger. If you didnโ€™t want to know what she thought about certain things, you best not ask. She loved to talk and had the memory of an elephant. She was a devoted wife, mother and Nano (which was her favorite title) and her family always came first. She was a straight shooter with everyone, and she loved just as hard. She grew up in the Palestine Methodist Church community, otherwise known as โ€œHicoโ€. Growing up in this community is where she met her husband Ricky, to whom she was married for 50 years this past April. She was also known to be a wonderful cook and took great pride in baking cakes, especially her famous strawberry cake and pound cake, that everyone always requested at church events or she baked and delivered to people โ€œjust becauseโ€. She was a true servant of God, always showing her concern and love for others with calls, by sending cards and preparing food and lifting up others in prayer.

She was a member of Northside Baptist Church in Almo, KY and loved all her church family dearly.

She was preceded in death by her still born daughter Carrie Beth Rudolph.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Ricky Joe Rudolph of Dexter, KY, her only daughter, Amanda (Mandy) Jo Phillips and husband Jonathan (Bubba) Phillips of Dexter, KY and her only granddaughter, which was her pride and joy, Preslee Brook Phillips of Dexter, KY.

She is also survived by her brother Joe Brooks of Dexter, KY and her sister, Debbie Murdock and husband Ray of Lynn Grove, KY.

She is also survived by three nephews, Jodie Brooks (Mandy), Jason Hill (Miriam) and Justin Hill (Nicole) and by 4 great nephews and 5 great nieces who lovingly referred to her as โ€œAunt Yโ€.

Public visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. โ€“ 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 7, 2026, with the funeral service following at 2:00 p.m., at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Bro. Brett Miles and Bro. David Allbritten officiating. Burial will then follow at the Palestine Community Church Cemetery in Hico, KY.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, 803 Poplar Street, Murray, KY 42071.

Online condolences may be left at www.jhchurchill.com.

The following individualsโ€™ obituaries were updated or posted this month; however, they passed away in a prior month.

Jane Shoemaker*

March 3, 1951 – Dec. 25, 2025

Jane Miller Shoemaker, age 74, of Murray, Kentucky passed away Thursday, December 25, 2025, at her home.

Ms. Shoemaker was born in Calloway County on March 3, 1951, to the late Douglas and Louise Miller Shoemaker. She was a 1969 graduate of Calloway County High School. She graduated from Murray State University where she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree and later graduated from Texas Tech University with her Master of Arts in Sociology.

Jane was a patriot and had a historianโ€™s soul. She was past Regent for the Captain Wendell Oury Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was an active member of the Calloway County Genealogical and Historical Society. She was a Kentucky Colonel and served her community through Murray Rotary Club and Playhouse in the Park.

Jane was a servant leader and was dedicated to improving the city of Murray. Having served on Murray City Council for six years, she voted what she thought was best for the city despite self-interest. She served on the Human Rights Commission along with other committees that allowed her to work tirelessly for the good of the city and community looking at the long term rather than the short benefits.

She was an active member of the Humane Society of Calloway County cherishing the opportunities to love and foster many cats. Her photo albums are full of pictures of each cat, its name and when it was adopted.

Jane loved music. She was voted Most Talented of Senior Favorites in her graduating class of Calloway County High School. She compiled cassette tapes and CDs from her favorite musician/bands to share with her โ€œBestiesโ€ from Hazel.

Jane was a member of Masonโ€™s Chapel United Methodist Church where she played the piano at a young age. She is survived by several cousins, her sweet cat, Emmy Ann, her lifelong โ€œHazel Girlsโ€; as well as many close friends. Janeโ€™s beautiful smile and wonderful personality are just a few of her qualities that will be remembered.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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

James Dale Parker*

July 17, 1944 – Dec. 30, 2025

James Dale Parker, 81, of Whitestown, Indiana, formerly of Henderson and Murray, Kentucky, passed away at 2:33 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Born on July 17, 1944, in Kirksey, Kentucky, to the late James A. and Madeline Parker, Dale dedicated his life to service, family, and faith. He served with the Kentucky State Police for 29 years, embodying integrity and commitment throughout his career. Following his retirement from law enforcement, he continued serving others as an agent with Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society.

Dale was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves, retiring as a First Sergeant after 21 years of service. He remained deeply connected to his faith throughout his life and worshipped at Zionsville United Methodist Church in Zionsville, Indiana; Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Henderson, Kentucky; and Goshen United Methodist Church in Murray, Kentucky.

Known for his gentle spirit and generous heart, Dale found joy in fishing and never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildrenโ€™s activities. His calm, โ€œgentle giantโ€ presence and steady counsel made him someone others naturally leaned on. Guided by a deep and enduring faith, he lived with humility and quiet strength, shaping the way he loved and protected his family as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His easy humor, patience, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Dale is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Donna Son Parker, of Whitestown, Indiana; his daughters, Jennifer King of Henderson, Kentucky, Jamie Parker-Smith (Shannon) of Gulf Breeze, Florida, and Dana Stelsel (David) of Zionsville, Indiana; and his seven grandchildren, Jackson, Cooper, Braden, Ford, Emmajane, Mae, and Grayson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Gene Parker; his sister, Shelby Suiter; and his former wife, Helen Jane Vowels.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Chapel Hill Church in Henderson, Kentucky. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. CT, with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. CT.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in the form of memorial contributions to Trooper Island Inc. (www.kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/trooper-island).

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

Jeanne (Lovins) Mathis*

Aug. 19, 1947 – Dec. 30, 2025

Ms. Jeanne (Lovins) Mathis, age 78, of Lexington, Tennessee, formerly of Murray, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at her home.

Ms. Mathis was born in Murray, Kentucky on August 19, 1947, to the late Halford Lovins and Barbara Grogan Lovins. She was a retired registered nurse and served 29 years at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital as the Director of ER and Critical Care Unit. Ms. Mathis was blessed with a career of service to others and a community she loved. She dedicated her life to serving, teaching, and mentoring others. She was also a member of the Journey Church.

In addition to her parents, she is proceeded in death by one son, Brian Mathis; one brother, Mike Lovins; and one aunt, Charlotte Wilson.

Survivors include one daughter, Trisha Ross of Lexington, Tennessee; one sister, Lori Lovins of Murray, Kentucky; one sister-in-law, Kim Lovins of Murray, Kentucky; two grandchildren, Laken and Noah Ross of Lexington, Tennessee; niece and nephew, Chloe Lovins of Paducah, Kentucky and Will Lovins of Murray, Kentucky; one aunt, Gail Gallimore; as well as cousins, Paula Morton, Kevin Wilson, James Gallimore, Vicki Nance, Jeffre Gallimore, Teresa Schroader, Johnny Gallimore, and Jody Gallimore.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Rev. Kerry Lambert and John Dale will officiate and burial will follow in the Murray Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. โ€“ 1 p.m., Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

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

John Clark*

Feb. 8, 1941 – Dec. 31, 2025

Mr. John M. Clark, age 84, of Murray, Kentucky, entered eternal life Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital.

Mr. Clark was born on February 8, 1941, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to the late Martin A. Clark and Alice Henry Thomas Clark. He was president of John Clark Construction Co. Inc. and was a member of the St. Leo Catholic Church and served as a member of the Independence Bank Board of Directors.

John, along with his wife Marie of 64 years, started John Clark Construction Co. Inc. in 1972 which today is composed of second and third generations of family leadership and is focused primarily on commercial, educational, & religious building construction.

John was known for his wealth of knowledge, his ability to convey what needed to be done to make for a successful project, and his kind and sincere management style of treating everyone equally, which is derived from his faith and love of the Lord. His typical saying that he only worked half a day every day and then told you that his half a day was from 5:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. was accurate, and he worked until April 2025 retiring at 84 years of age.

He worked his whole life because he loved what he was doing, loved people, and enjoyed seeing something being taken from a concept to finished building that will last for years to come. He set a tremendous example of how to live for those of us that had the privilege of working with and around him and will be forever missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Bonnie Clark Potts, Rose A. Clark Crabtree and Alice Marie Clark Gardner; one brother, Stephen Clark.

Survivors include wife, Theresa Marie Clark of Murray, Kentucky, they married on October 14, 1961; one daughter, Kathy Miller and husband Brad of Murray; four sons, Rev. John Michael Clark of Paducah, Kentucky, Patrick Clark of Franklin, Tennessee, Christopher Clark and wife Stacy of Murray and Nathan Clark and wife Angie of Murray; three sisters, Ruth Oller and husband Larry of Sorgho, Kentucky, Pamela Cummins and husband Rick of Owensboro, Kentucky and Paula Newman of Houston, Texas; three brothers, William Clark and wife Pok Hui of San Diego, California, David Clark and wife Jane of Mosleyville, Kentucky and Bruce Clark and wife Robbie of Rome, Kentucky; ten grandchildren, Jessica Miller Herron and husband Chris, Josh Miller and wife Hannah, Adam Clark, Hannah Clark and husband Mostafa, Ethan Clark, Dustin Dodd and wife Bridget, Bryce Clark and wife Sarah, Chase Darnell and wife Brittany, Ian Clark and fiancรฉe Kelsey, and Molly Clark; also surviving are ten great grandchildren; as well as three brother-in-lawโ€™s, George Powers and wife Barbara of Bowling Green, Kentucky, and Sammy Potts and Melvin Crabtree both of Daviess County, Kentucky.

A funeral mass will be held 12:00 p.m., Friday, January 9, 2026, at the St. Leo Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. โ€“ 7 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the St. Leo Catholic Church with a Prayer Service being held at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will also be held 9:00 a.m. โ€“ 12:00 p.m., Friday, January 9, 2026 at the church.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the St. Leo Catholic Church, c/o Newman Catholic Center Capital Campaign, 401 N. 12th St., Murray, KY 42071.

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

James “Jimmy” Gingles*

March 14, 1955 โ€” Dec. 30, 2025

James โ€œJimmyโ€ Robert Gingles, age 70, died peacefully at home on December 30, 2025.

Jimmy was born on March 14, 1955, in Murray, Kentucky, to Rob and Gwen (Nance) Gingles. He graduated from Murray High School in 1973 and Murray State University in 1983.

Anyone who knew Jimmy knew he had one of the most unique and fun-loving personalities around. Like his brother Johnny, he was a fixture in the Murray-Calloway County community. Since 1984, Jimmy delighted crowds as a show magician, performing at schools, birthday parties, fairs, traveling shows, and countless local events.

Following college, he worked as a disc jockey at WNBS before moving to Nashville, where he spent time in entertainment circles alongside close friends Townes Van Zandt, John Prine, and Guy Clark. In the 1990s, he opened Rainbow Sno, operating the beloved snow cone and fresh fruit hut for more than 30 years. He also worked alongside his mother, Gwen, managing Gingles Apartments for the past 40 years.

Jimmy was an avid collector of eclectic antiques, oddities, and memorabilia. He was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and never missed a University of Kentucky basketball game. Telling jokes and pulling pranks were a hallmark of time spent with Jimmy, and those who knew him are certain there will never be another quite like him.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a sister he lost at birth, Nancy Ann Gingles, and his brother, John โ€œJohnnyโ€ Gingles, who passed away shortly after him on January 6, 2026.

He is survived by his mother, Gwen; his nephew, Rob Gingles and wife Kayla of Murray; his nephew, Hunter Gingles of Murray; and his niece, Ellen Prinzi of Jupiter, Florida. He is also survived by many dear friends and his crew at the Big Apple Cafรฉ, where he was known for frequent impromptu magic shows.

Visitation will be held at J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with a private family burial to follow. John Dale will officiate the funeral service. This will be a joint service with his brother, Johnny Gingles.

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

Kenneth Warren Thomas*

June 14, 1930 โ€“ Dec. 29, 2025

Mr. Kenneth Warren Thomas, age 95, of Murray, Kenucky, passed away Monday, December 29, 2025, at his home.

Mr. Thomas was born in Louisville, Kentucky on June 14, 1930, to the late Paul Jerome Thomas and Thelma Christine (Oโ€™Bryan) Thomas. Mr. Thomas was a retired Clinical Psychologist, while working most of his career as a forensic psychologist with the Kentucky Department of Corrections. Mr. Thomas was a navy veteran of the Korean War and was a member of St. Leo Catholic Church in Murray.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Thomas was preceded in death by his three brothers, Jerry, Dan, and Connie.

Mr. Thomas is survived by one daughter, Elizabeth Anne Thomas of Murray, Kentucky; three sons, Daniel Oโ€™Bryan Thomas, Matthew David Thomas, Steven Jon Thomas; two sisters, Minerva (Thomas) Sarver and Celestine (Thomas) Akard; as well as two grandchildren, Mary Ann Thomas and Carolyn Nicole Thomas.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the St. Leo Catholic Church with Father John Thomas officiating. Burial will follow in the Murray City Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, from 5:00 7:00 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home and Cremation Services. There will be an additional visitation prior to the funeral mass service on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. โ€“ 1:00 p.m. at the St. Leo Catholic Church.

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

Clifford D. Vail*

Aug. 21, 1954 – Dec. 31, 2025

Clifford Dee Vail passed away, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on August 21, 1954, in Long Beach, California, Clifford was the beloved son of Jack Edward and Naomi (Blue) Vail. From an early age, he displayed a keen analytical mind and a natural aptitude for problem-solvingโ€”traits that would shape both his education and professional life.

Clifford graduated from Millikan High School in Long Beach, CA in 1972 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering in 1980, followed by a Masterโ€™s in Business Administration with a concentration in Corporate Finance in 1985, both from the University of Missouri in Columbia.

Throughout his distinguished career, he held the positions of Environmental Engineer with Chevron Petrochemicals, Senior Plant Engineer with Buckman Laboratories, and Engineering Manager with ISK Magnetics. Clifford ultimately retired as Production Superintendent at Vanderbilt Chemical Corporation in Murray, KY, after 20 years of dedicated service to the company.

Cliffordโ€™s professional life was marked by remarkable dedication and innovation. One of his proudest professional accomplishments was the development of a process that advanced lubricant additive technology. In recognition of this achievement, Cliff, along with several coworkers, was awarded a patent for this process in 2007. His work stands as a lasting testament to his curiosity, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to excellence.

A man of deep faith, Clifford was an avid reader of the Bible and especially cherished the Old Testament. One of his most beloved passages was the 23rd Psalm, which offered him comfort and guidance throughout his life.

David declares, The Lord is my shepherd.

A Psalm of David.

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his nameโ€™s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Clifford was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Edward and Naomi (Blue) Vail; and a sister Linda Elaine Vail.

Clifford married Anita McBride in 1976, the marriage later ended in divorce in 2011. From this union, he is survived by his son, Chadwell (Audrey) Vail and three granddaughters, Rebekah, Lily, and Miriam. He is also survived by his wife Nidea (Gardner) Vail, whom he married in 2014, daughters Maria (Jacob) Gardner and Stefani (Ethan) Farley, and a grandson, Jacoby.

In honor of Cliffโ€™s wishes, no public visitation or formal funeral services will be held. Interment will be in the Kenyon Cemetery in Delta, Missouri, at a later date.

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


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In remembrance: Tatum Elizabeth Dale

May 10, 1990 – Dec. 24, 2025

Ms. Tatum Elizabeth Dale, age 35, of Lexington, Kentucky, formerly of Murray, Ky., passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025, at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington.

Ms. Dale was born on May 10, 1990, in Murray. Tatum was a proud graduate of Calloway County High School and the University of Kentucky. She was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church in Lexington.

Tatum volunteered on Congressman Andy Barrโ€™s first congregational campaign and has worked for Congressman Barr for the past 15 years. Tatum held almost every position in the Barr congressional office, Schedular, Field Representative, Deputy District Director, District Director and, most recently, Deputy Chief of Staff and Campaign Manager. Tatum loved her job and serving the 6th district and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Tatum was an extraordinary young woman with a servantโ€™s heart and an ability to love and make people feel special. Tatum was a genuine light that shined so brightly wherever she went. She didnโ€™t meet a stranger that she couldnโ€™t find something in common with to strike up a conversation, and she left a lasting impression. She had the ability to connect with people, she wanted to know you, and it was from the heart and genuine.

She was a servant of the Lord heavily involved in her church and had a passion for mission work. She loved all people of all ages. She chaperoned countless Honor Flights carrying veterans to Washington D.C. The Lord was first and next was the endearing love Tatum had for her family. She understood the blessing of family and she showed her love to us continually in small and big ways. Our girl is gone too soon but we rest in the knowledge that she is rejoicing with her Lord and Savior in heaven.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, J.C. โ€œBillyโ€ and Cora Elizabeth โ€œLibbyโ€ Mahan and Rev. B.G. and Doris Dale; as well as her uncle, Joe โ€œSkipโ€ Ginn.

Survivors include her parents, Bill and Ellen Dale; two brothers, Leighton Dale and wife Amy and Nolin Dale and fiancรฉ Syd Petonic; cherished nieces, Libby Tate and Edie James Dale; aunts and uncles, David and Becky Ginn, Tim and Sonya Ginn, Dianne Lee, Lisa and Doug Steele, Pam and Barry Albright, and Bruce and Deb Dale; many beloved cousins; as well as her constant four legged companion, Henry.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Bro. Brett Miles officiating. Burial will follow in the Hicks Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. โ€“ 2 p.m. at the J.H. Churchill Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

A memorial service will be held in Lexington, Ky., at 2 p.m., Jan. 3, 2026, at the Calvary Baptist Church, 150 East High Street. Visitation will be held from 12 p.m. โ€“ 2 p.m., at the Calvary Baptist Church.

Active pallbearers will be, Bill Dale, Leighton Dale, Nolin Dale, Joe Dale Curd, Jeremy Curd, and Jonathan Curd. Honorary pallbearers will be, David Ginn, Tim Ginn, Barry Albright, Doug Steele and Bruce Dale.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Tatum Dale Memorial Scholarship, payable to the University of Kentucky, UK Philanthropy, P.O. Box, 910628, Lexington, KY 40591-0628 or to the Honor Flight of Kentucky, c/o Kelli Parmley, 4604 Foxbridge Circle, Lexington, KY 40515.

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

MCCH Board of Trustees Regular Meeting

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The Murray-Calloway County Hospital Board of Trustees will meet at 1noon in the hospital’s Garrison Board Room and via Microsoft Teams (call 270-762-1102 for connection details).

MCCH Board of Trustees Finance Committee Regular Meeting

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The Murray-Calloway County Hospital Board of Trustees Finance Committee will meet at 11:30 a.m. in the hospital’s Garrison Board Room and via Microsoft Teams (call 270-762-1102 for connection details).

KSP warns of scam targeting sex offenders

MAYFIELD, Ky. โ€“ Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 1 has seen an increase in reported scams recently, including scams impersonating law enforcement.ย 

It has been reported to KSP Post 1 more than once in the past few days that individuals on the Sex Offender Registry (SOR) have received phone calls from someone alledging they are KSP Post 1 Commander, Captain Joey Adams, and advising them they have a warrant related to their SOR status. The impersonator then requests money for a bond payment. This is a scam. We would like to reassure the public that law enforcement will not call you to advise you of a warrant or request money related to a warrant. 

KSP Post 1 would also like to remind the public, under KRS 525.070 and 525.080, use of information obtained from the sex offender registry to harass a person identified on the sex offender registry is a criminal offense punishable by up to ninety (90) days in the county jail. More severe criminal penalties apply for more severe crimes committed against a person identified on the sex offender registry website. 


Related coverage: Anatomy of a scam call: Inside a 30-minute chat with fake deputies

A night divine with the Messiah (Opinion)

After months of rehearsal โ€“ and the holiday concert not a week away – the sopranos had suddenly become shrill while the altos sank to a half-tone flat. Worse yet, the best tenorโ€™s voice changed over a weekend, and the bass who was supposed to sing a solo had laryngitis.

As a result, our choral music teacher was tearing out his hair and muttering a river of curses in Italian. A Julliard graduate, Alexander Azzolina had sung at opera houses all over the world. Women reportedly swooned at the sound of his rich tenor voice. A consummate professional in the adult world, Mr. A. was reduced to tears of frustration in the high school choral room. Because of us.

The routine was the same every year. We started rehearsing in September so there was plenty of time to learn the music, memorize the words, and get the voices to blend, The process ran smoothly until November, when SATโ€™s, Thanksgiving, and the homecoming game were on the horizon.

Santa Claus was coming to town and we kids were distracted.

Things started deteriorating at the first rehearsal in December, so extra practices were scheduled before and after school. Everyone grumbled and griped. Mr. A. had to tap his baton two, three, four times on the music stand to get us to quiet down and pay attention. When we were really distracted, he snapped his baton in two for good measure.

Besides singing Hanukah songs in Hebrew, yuletide tunes from other cultures in Spanish and German, and a cantata of Appalachian Christmas Carols, we were singing challenging sections from Handelโ€™s โ€œMessiah.โ€ The school had purchased new blue choir robes with white satin sashes for the Vocal Ensemble, and a professional musician, instead of one of the students, was engaged as accompanist.

Besides the singing, Mr. A had designed a new way to delight the audience. Once they were all settled in their seats, the lights in the auditorium would dim and then on cue, the chorus – each one carrying a lit candle – processed in, singing โ€œSilent Night.โ€ When we ascended to the stage and arranged ourselves properly on the risers, we were to finish the song and blow out our candles in one breath.

Our marching orders were clear, but the closer we got to opening night, the more our skills eroded. We tripped, giggled, even forgot words to songs weโ€™d known since we could sing fa-la-la-la-la-la. If it kept up, the outcome was inevitable: Mr. A. would erupt like Mount Vesuvius.

Dress rehearsal was a Christmas disaster, but stories like this have happy endings, at least when they get written down, so I remember that particular performance as note perfect.

Every year at this time I take the sheet music out, play the songs, and sing along. The voices of my classmates are distinct, their faces round and sweet in the soft candlelight of memory.

I remember Peggy K. and Dot Sโ€™s lilting duet of โ€œOh Thou that Tellest Good Tidings to Zion.โ€ And Richard Kโ€™s rendition of โ€œThe People That Walked in Darknessโ€ thrilled the audience. For the grand finale, the audience was asked to follow tradition and stand for the โ€œHalleluiah Chorus.โ€

Mr. A, his dark eyes snapping, had transformed the rabble of lively teenagers into a finely-tuned instrument.

At the end of the concert, forehead glazed with sweat, Mr. Azzolina blew us a kiss before he took his bow. Afterwards, we handed in our robes and rushed off to be with friends and family. For days after, everyone talked about the magic of that winter night when the school seemed to levitate on a cushion of young voices raised in song and praise with Handelโ€™s โ€œMessiah.โ€

CCBE sets 2026-27 school calendar

MURRAY – Calloway County Board of Education held their regular monthly meeting at the districtโ€™s central office on Dec. 18.

The meeting began with a recognition of Aubrey Naber, a CCHS senior who achieved a perfect 36 composite score on the ACT Test. Naber thanked her parents and teachers for pushing her to accomplish this feat. Less than 0.2% of test takers nationally achieve a perfect score on the standardized test.

Aubrey Naber, right, poses with Calloway County School District Superintendent Tres Settle at last night’s board of education meeting. (Photo provided)

The board approved a BG1 request to begin projects on the roofs of East Calloway Elementary and North Calloway Elementary. The district recently completed an assessment of the roofs in the district and will target portions of buildings with the highest need. The board also approved numerous fundraisers and travel requests from around the district.

The board also approved the school calendar for the 2026-27 school year. This calendar includes the first day of school as Aug. 5, with Fall Break on Oct. 5-9, Winter Break on Dec. 21 – Jan. 1, Spring Break on April 5-9, and the projected last day of school on May 13, 2027. The calendar is developed by an annual committee led by the districtโ€™s director of pupil personnel, Josh McKeel.

Numerous directors and principals gave updates to the board about the progress in their departments and schools. McKeel reported the district attendance rate of 95.5% is quite strong, and overall district enrollment is 39 students higher than one year prior. Director of Maintenance Kenny Duncan showed detailed energy usage graphs and noted the district had saved over $2 million in energy costs since 2015 due to energy friendly shifts in the district. Supervisor of Instruction Ryan Marchetti gave a quick update on the first-year teacher mentorship program in the district. Principals from every school discussed recent MAP testing in reading and math for students in grades K-10 and recent holiday and family engagement events at their schools to end the first semester.

Superintendent Tres Settle gave an update about the construction projects for the baseball and softball concession stand and the tennis courts. Settle also noted he has been in touch with local legislators advocating for the ability to connect the central campus to Highway 121 with an access road.

The next regularly scheduled meeting for the Calloway County Board of Education is Thursday, Jan. 15, at 6 p.m. at the Calloway County Schools district office.

Murray State announces two college heads

MURRAY โ€“ At the quarterly meeting of the Murray State University Board of Regents on Dec. 12, the university named Nicole Hand dean of the College of Humanities and Fine Arts and Dr. R. Heath Keller dean of the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business. Both had served as the interim dean of their respective colleges since Jan. 1, 2025.

Nicole Hand

In her role as dean of the College of Humanities and Fine Arts, Hand will continue to oversee academic programs within the College of Humanities and Fine Arts that encompass the following departments:

  • Art and Design
  • English and Philosophy
  • Global Languages and Theatre Arts
  • History
  • Music
  • Political Science and Sociology
  • Psychology

The college is a cultural hub for the campus and broader community, having hosted nearly 200 events this year that are free and open to the public and range from exhibitions, festivals and performances to films, lectures and reading series. 

Hand earned a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Miami in 1999 before joining Murray State as an assistant professor in the art department in the fall of 1999. She served the College of Humanities and Fine Arts as assistant dean from 2018-23 and associate dean from 2023-24 before accepting the role of interim dean. 

As professor, Hand teaches courses in several disciplines within the college, particularly in printmaking, as Murray Stateโ€™s printmaking program has a rich tradition of success and recognition in the national printmaking community. 

Her work has been featured in numerous regional, national and international exhibitions, while her mentorship has helped guide numerous artists.

A 2009 recipient of the Murray State Distinguished Researcher Award, Hand has served on a multitude of committees both within the College of Humanities and Fine Arts, as well as across Murray State, and has secured grants over the course of her professional career to advance scholarly research while championing student and faculty success. 

Hand holds professional affiliations with organizations including the Mid America Print Council, Southern Graphics Council, College Arts Association and the Council of Colleges of Arts & Sciences.  She served on the board for the Southern Graphics Print Council as Vice President of Outreach and Member at Large.

โ€œThe College of Humanities and Fine Arts is a vibrant, student-centered college, filled with excellent professors, skilled researchers, compassionate leaders, and dedicated staff,โ€ said Hand. โ€œThe fine arts, humanities, social and behavioral sciences are crucial areas of study for understanding the world, expressing that understanding creatively, and addressing its challenges with empathy, innovation, and critical thinking. I am excited to work collaboratively with faculty and staff to provide a quality education that equips students with the essential skills and knowledge they need to succeed, and to continue our community connections through our wide array of events and programming.โ€

Hand is married to Jim Bryant, Professor at Murray State. They have two children, Ella Bryant (20) and Colin Bryant (13).

Dr. R. Heath Keller

In his role as dean of the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business, Keller will continue to oversee academic programs within the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business, which is among only 5% of business schools globally accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AASCB).

The Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business provides excellent teaching and student learning opportunities, blending the range of educational opportunities often found at research institutions with the nurturing student-teacher interactions characteristic of smaller universities. Departments in the college include:

  • Accounting
  • Computer Science and Information Systems
  • Economics and Finance
  • Journalism and Mass Communications
  • Management, Marketing and Business Administration
  • Organizational Communication and Leadership

Keller holds professional affiliations with associations such as the Academy of Management, the Southern Management Association, Midwest Academy of Management, Educause and Beta Gamma Sigma. 

“It is an honor and privilege to serve Murray State University as dean of the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business,โ€ said Keller. I’m excited for the opportunity to represent, support and celebrate the great students, faculty and staff that make the Bauernfeind College of Business shine. It is my goal to foster the college’s strong legacy of excellence and scholarship as we work together toward the future.”

Keller earned his doctorate from Southern Illinois University in 2011. He began his faculty career at Murray State University as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Management, Marketing and Business Administration. During his tenure at Murray State, he has progressed to his current rank of Professor. Keller also served as the Department Chair of Management, Marketing and Business Administration from Aug. 2017 until he accepted the role of Interim Dean. Keller earned the Regents Award for Teaching Excellence in 2016.

Mallory named CCHS principal

MURRAY – Calloway County Schools has announced that Mark Mallory will be hired as the next principal of Calloway County High School. Mallory will take over at CCHS during winter break for Steve Smith, who has served as interim principal since October.

Mallory has been the principal of Southwest Calloway Elementary School for the last eight years. Before that, Mallory was an assistant principal at Graves County High School for three years. He was an English teacher at Graves County High School for six years before becoming an administrator. Mallory has two Masterโ€™s degrees and a Bachelorโ€™s degree, all from Murray State University.

Mark Mallory (Photo Provided)

โ€œMr. Mallory has proven himself to be an exceptional leader at Southwest, and I am confident that he will do an outstanding job as the principal of CCHS,โ€ Superintendent Tres Settle said. โ€œHe brings a wealth of high school and leadership experience to his new role, and Iโ€™m excited to see what he and the staff at CCHS will achieve together.โ€

Mallory is a current member of the Leadership Murray class with the Murray-Calloway Chamber of Commerce. He is a 2020 graduate of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerceโ€™s Leadership Initiative for Principals. In the community, Mallory is on the board of directors for Playhouse in the Park, a Calloway County Library trustee, and on Murray State Universityโ€™s Internal Review Board.

“Strong schools are built through positive relationships, clarity of expectations, and intentional systems,โ€ said Mallory. โ€œI am incredibly excited to work with the staff and administration of Calloway County High School to create opportunities and provide support for our students as they prepare to step into the next significant chapter of their lives.”

Mallory is originally from Christopher, IL. He and his wife, Heidi, reside in Murray and have two sons, Henry and Max.

Mark Mallory is shown with his wife, Heidi, and sons. (Photo provided)

Ford announces major EV shift, lays off all employees at Kentucky plant

By Liam Niemeyer/Kentucky Lantern

GLENDALE, Ky. – Ford Motor Co. will lay off about 1,500 workers in Kentucky as it converts a ballyhooed plant in Hardin County from making batteries for electric vehicles to making batteries for a new energy storage business.ย 

Ford on Monday also announced that it is taking a $19.5 billion writedown and canceling several electric vehicle models in the face of Trump administration policies and lackluster demand for electric vehicles.

 In a press release, the company said the conversion of the Glendale plant, which began operations in August, would โ€œserve the rapidly growing battery energy storage systems marketโ€ by leveraging โ€œcurrently underutilized electric vehicle battery capacity to create a new, diversified and profitable revenue stream for Ford.โ€ The company said it would invest $2 billion over two years to scale the energy storage business and deploy at least 20 gigawatt-hours annually of energy storage batteries by late 2027. 

โ€œFord plans to produce LFP prismatic cells, battery energy storage system modules and 20-foot DC container systems at this facility. These systems are at the heart of the energy storage solution market for data centers, utilities, and large-scale industrial and commercial customers,โ€ the company wrote in its press release.

The Louisville Courier-Journal reported that Ford executive Andrew Frick said the BlueOval SK battery plant is expected to lay off all of its approximately 1,500 employees in the near future, though the final date of employment has not been announced. The newspaper reported the retooled plant would employ 2,100 workers with some currently employed workers anticipated to reapply.

Workers at the battery plant had sought to unionize with the United Auto Workers, with the results of an union election held in August still being contested before the National Labor Relations Council.

Ford said production of a previously announced electric truck and universal electric vehicle platform to be built in Louisville continues to progress with production set to start in 2027.

The battery plant located on Interstate 65 in Glendale, was previously a joint venture between Ford and South Korea-based SK On. The companies announced last week they were ending the partnership

Originally planned to be two plants with billions of dollars of cumulative investment, the companies announced in 2023 that the second plant would be indefinitely idled due in part to softening electric vehicle demand. 

Republican lawmakers in the Kentucky legislature who represent Hardin County issued statements expressing both optimism and caution about the announced conversion. 

State Reps. Samara Heavrin, R-Leitchfield, and Steve Bratcher, R-Elizabethtown, in a joint statement said their focus remained โ€œon making sure the men and women whose jobs are impacted by this decision have the support and resources they need to find new employment and that going forward this new project delivers real, lasting investment and meaningful employment for the families and communities surrounding Glendale.โ€ 

โ€œWe are optimistic about Ford Motor Companyโ€™s decision to take over the Glendale facility and transition the project toward energy storage, particularly as initial plans for the project have faced significant challenges from the outset. At the same time, optimism must be matched with both caution and accountability, and we will be watching closely to ensure commitments are met and honored,โ€ the two Republicans said in their statement. 

State Sen. Matt Deneen, R-Elizabethtown, in a statement said there would be โ€œshort-term challengesโ€ but that Fordโ€™s investment in Glendale โ€œunderscores the companyโ€™s long-term commitment to this community.โ€

Democratic Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear previously blamed Republicans in Washington for federal policies that jeopardized the EV battery plant. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act ended a $7,500 tax credit for the purchase of electric vehicles, and the Trump administration has targeted Biden administration regulations that sought to encourage the production of electric vehicles. 

Beshear in a statement provided through a spokesperson said the state would remain โ€œthe EV battery capital of the U.S. because EV is โ€” and will be โ€” part of Americaโ€™s future, despite the Presidentโ€™s shortsighted attacks on the industry.โ€ He said the main focus was to find new jobs for impacted BlueOval employees.

He also said he remained confident in Ford and that he was in โ€œdirect contactโ€ with the companyโ€™s leadership โ€œto ensure the restructured project moves forward and is successful for both the company, Kentucky and our workforce.โ€

A Beshear spokesperson said the terms of the stateโ€™s incentive agreement with Ford were being renegotiated. Kentucky had offered $250 million in public monies for the BlueOval SK operation.

This article was originally published by Kentucky Lantern on Dec. 15, 2025.


Liam covers government and policy in Kentucky and its impacts throughout the Commonwealth for the Kentucky Lantern. He most recently spent four years reporting award-winning stories for WKMS Public Radio in Murray.

Kentucky Lantern is part of States Newsroom, the nationโ€™s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.

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