Mrs. Earnestine M. Cossey, 91, of Murray, went to her heavenly home on Sunday, October 18, 2026 at Passion and Purpose Senior Living.
She was born on September 9, 1935 ‘between the rivers’ in Trigg County, KY to the late Ralph and Elva May (Crowder) Lilly. She was a longtime member of Bethel Fellowship Church.
Earnestine married John Gardner Cossey in 1949 in Trigg County, beginning a life centered on family and faith. In fact, her love for the Lord began at an early age. Even then, her heart was drawn to sharing her faith, offering a sweet glimpse of the woman she would become.
Earnestine was a natural caregiver who raised and mothered many children throughout her life. She had a special way of making people feel loved, accepted, and at home. Whether someone was family by blood or simply someone who needed a little extra love, Earnestine welcomed them with open arms. Her kindness knew no boundaries, and her influence reached far beyond her own household. The love she gave so freely became a lasting part of the lives of those who knew her.
Earnestine was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph Lilly and Eva May Lilly; her husband, John Cossey; two sons, Kenneth Cossey and Glenn Cossey; her brothers, Prentice Lilly and Cyril Lilly; her sister, Blondal Flood; grandchildren, Audrey and Cory and one great grandchild, Megan.
Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, Danny Cossey (Cindy) and Johnny Don Cossey (Lenna); her sister, Mavis Stone; her grandchildren, Monica Marshall, Carlee Cossey, Casey Darnell, Brandon Duncan, Ivey Carroll, Holly Duncan, Cohen Cossey, Kayla Slack, Kera Mitchell, Kenzie Thomas, Ken Cossey, Jr., Jill Oliver, Shannon Mitchell, Erica Livington, Ben Cossey, Trent Cossey, along with 34 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Also, daughters in law, Pat Cossey and Kim Cossey, survive her.
The funeral service honoring the life of Mrs. Earnestine Cossey is set for 1 PM on Friday, October 23, 2026 at Imes Funeral Home, 311 North 4th Street, Murray. Chris King will officiate and additional speakers will be Shelby Underhill and Ralph Lilly. Burial will follow at Elm Grove Cemetery.
Her family welcomes visitors from 10 AM until 1 PM on Friday, October 23, 2026 at the funeral home.
Please join family and friends in honoring the life of Mrs. Cossey by visiting www.imesfh.com to post your tributes and memories.
