Breathitt Funeral Home & Monument Co.

12/29/2025

Theodore David "Ted" Gau, 81, of Old Buck, Kentucky passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025 at his residence.

Ted was born on November 15, 1944 in Dayton, Ohio he grew up surrounded by the values of perseverance and community. He carried these principles with him throughout his life, especially in his passion for farming. Whether tending to his garden or working the fields with his beloved tractor, Ted found joy and purpose in cultivating the earth. His dedication to farming was not just a livelihood but a way of life that reflected his steadfast spirit.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret Roberts Gau; his parents, Wilbur and Rita Milky Gau; his daughter, Eunice Ann Gau; his son, Ted D. Gau; his grandson, David Charles Gau; his brother, Charles Gau and sister, Patricia Ann Gau.

Family was at the heart of everything Ted did. He shared many years of marriage with his late wife, Margaret L. Gau, building a home filled with love and resilience. Together they raised their children and created lasting memories that continue to live on through generations.

Ted is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Sandra (Kenneth) Patrick; his brothers, Ronald Gau and Michael Gau; his sister, Krista Haston. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Cassandra (Roy) Vires, Ashley Southers, Matthew Beauchane Sr., Johnathon Gau and Justin Southers; as well as great-grandchildren, Roy Lee Vires, Hunter David Vires, Carter Isaiah Vires, Matthew Beauchane Jr., Brayson Beauchane, Theodore D. Gau, Shawn & Amy Cockerham, Tony Cockerham, Justin Vires, Makayla White, and Nick & Jodi Vires and a host of nephews and nieces.

Ted’s happiest moments were often spent outdoors or surrounded by family. Whether riding his tractor across open fields or sharing stories at family gatherings, he brought warmth and strength to those around him.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 from 05:00 PM to 09:00 PM at Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel with the funeral service being held Thursday, January 1, 2026 beginning at 12:00 PM with Harold Byrd and Wayne Gibson officiating. Burial will follow in the Vires Cemetery at Longs Creek.

May the memory of Theodore David "Ted" Gau bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a reminder of a life well-lived—grounded in love for family and the land beneath his feet.

12/26/2025

Goldie Ann Jones, 80, passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025, at the Hospice of Cincinnati in Cincinnati, Ohio. Born on January 6, 1945, in Kentucky, she lived a life rooted in love, family and faith.

Goldie was the daughter of Orville and Olga Miller Combs. She grew up surrounded by the values that would guide her throughout her life—kindness, strength, and devotion to those she loved. She graduated from MC Napier High School and after graduating from beauty school, Goldie pursued a career as a beautician. Her work allowed her to connect with others through care and conversation, but her most cherished role was that of a mother.

She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to raising her children and nurturing her family. As a devoted mom to Douglas Wayne (Amy) Jones, Jeffery Dean (Tina) Jones, and Orville Keith (Tracy) Jones, Goldie found joy in every moment spent with them. Whether she was cooking meals from scratch or cheering from the sidelines at their sporting events, she was always present—offering encouragement and unconditional love.

Goldie’s home was a warm gathering place where laughter echoed and memories were made. She delighted in spending time with her grandchildren and took pride in being part of their lives. Her legacy continues through them—a host of grandchildren who carry forward her spirit of kindness and resilience.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Douglas Jones; her parents, Orville and Olga Combs; her brother, Pete Combs and her sister, Flo Bess Pugh.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons; her twelve grandchildren and her two great grandchildren; her brother, Aldo Combs; her sister, Inez Combs and all those whose lives she touched.

A woman of deep faith, Goldie lived according to the principles of the Baptist tradition. Her life reflected the wisdom of Proverbs 31:26: “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel with the funeral service to begin at 1:00 PM with Drewey Lee Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the Harvey Bend Cemetery at Hardshell with Jeff Jones, Keith Jones, Maddox Jones, Kyle Jones, Dylan Jones and Ryan Jones serving as pallbearers.

May Goldie be remembered for the love she gave so freely and the strength with which she lived each day. Her memory will continue to bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

12/25/2025

William Ray Roark, also known by his friends and trucking buddies as “Double R,” entered eternal rest on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at the Greg and Noreen Wells Hospice Care Center in Hazard, Kentucky, surrounded by his loving family.

Ray was born on November 3, 1935, in Breathitt County, Kentucky, to the late Earl and Irene Burton Roark. He was a retired coal truck driver who took great pride in his work and the friendships he made along the way. Ray loved the outdoors and cherished time spent with his family. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, but his favorite outdoor activity was riding his trike and spending time at his camper.

Ray was a faithful member of Tar Ridge Church of God in Rogers, Kentucky, and Middle Quicksand United Baptist Church in Guage, Kentucky. He also served as the oldest member of Breathitt Masonic Lodge #649 at the time of his passing.

Ray is survived by his wife of 10 years, Brenda Rose Roark;
sons: Doug Roark (Brenda) of New Lebanon, Ohio; Billy Ray Roark (Missy) of Guage, Kentucky; and Brandon Lee Roark of Guage, Kentucky;
daughters: Carolyn Roark Smith (Hirley) of Winter Haven, Florida;
adopted daughter: Lisa Spencer (Paul) of Rogers, Kentucky;
sister: Lois Ann Crase of Salyersville, Kentucky;
son-in-law: Eddie Dale Turner of Corbin, Kentucky;
along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Irene Burton Roark; his daughter, Brenda Roark Turner; brothers: Eddie Roark (Lorene), Paul David Roark, Earl David Roark, and Kenneth Dean Roark; and sisters: Opal Jean Caskey and Ailene Cole.

Visitation for Ray will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Breathitt Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., with Masonic rites at 7:00 p.m.
Funeral services will be conducted on Sunday, December 28, 2025, beginning at 2:00 p.m., with Paul Spencer and Hirley Smith Jr. officiating.
Burial will follow in the Roark Family Cemetery at Guage, Kentucky.

Pallbearers will be Danny Jones, Neal Watkins, Jaden Watkins, Benny Collinsworth, Tim Miller, Len Montgomery, and Gary Crace.
Honorary pallbearers are Earl Stevens, Everett Spencer, Todd Lindon, Donnie Smith, Ray Clemons, Charles Swift and Tim Spencer.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7

12/25/2025

12/23/2025

Special thanks to Earl Stevens for such a unique Christmas present!!

12/22/2025

John B. Turner, 86 of Clayhole, Kentucky entered into eternal rest Sunday, December 21, 2025 at his home in Clayhole.

Born on September 22, 1939 in Talbert, Kentucky, John was the son of the late Sam and Margaret Hall Turner. He graduated from Breathitt High School and pursued some college education before dedicating his career to serving his community as a custodian at Breathitt High School. His work ethic and steady presence left a lasting impression on generations of students and staff until his retirement.

John proudly served his country in the United States Army being discharged in 1968. His time in service reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment—values that remained with him throughout his life.

John was a man of faith and followed the Pentecostal tradition. His beliefs were a guiding force in his life and provided strength through both joyful and difficult times.

In his spare time he enjoyed being outdoors either fishing or hunting but above all he enjoyed time with his family.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Allie Hounshell Turner; daughter, Loudema Ann Brewer (Lacy); and granddaughters, Allison Combs (Joshua) and Amy Brewer (Rebel Combs).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Margaret Hall Turner and his beloved son, John Thomas “Tommy” Turner; his brothers, Albert Turner, Jesse Turner, Willie Turner, Dan Turner, George Turner and his sisters, Amanda Raleigh, America Herald, Flossie Turner, Elizabeth Watts, Easter Turner, Nancy Lawson, Hazel Turner, Kathryn Herald, Mima Turner, Sally DeVita.

John’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May his life be honored through the love he shared and the legacy he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 23, 2025 from 05:00 PM to 09:00 PM at Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel with the funeral service scheduled for Wednesday, December 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM with Phil Swartzentruber and Drewey Lee Jones officiating. Military rites will be observed at the time of funeral.

Burial will follow in the Alice B. Turner Cemetery at Talbert with Lacy Brewer, Joshua Combs, Steven Brewer, Ivan Caudill, Jim Combs, Rebel Combs, Michael Roberts serving as pallbearers.

FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND SPECIAL THANKS TO THE DEPT. OF VETERAN AFFAIRS, BLUEGRASS CARE NAVIGATORS AND THE GIRLS AT FRESENIUS.

12/22/2025

Bryce Dale Hollan, 65, of Jackson, Kentucky passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at the St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. Born on May 28, 1960 in Ary, Kentucky, Bryce lived a life rooted in hard work, family bonds and the simple joys of time spent with loved ones.

A master mechanic by trade, Bryce possessed a deep knowledge of engines that earned him respect among peers and clients alike. His hands were rarely still—whether under the hood of a car or shuffling a deck of cards for a friendly game. He found joy in working on cars and was always willing to lend his skills to help others.

Bryce cherished time with his family and friends. He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Bobbie Jean Moore (Kevin) and his grandchildren: Andrew Lutes, Bentley Strong, Elizabeth Moore, Addison Moore and Kylie Moore. His presence will be deeply missed by his brothers: John Hollan (Vicki), Charles Hollan (Connie), Earnest Hollan (Jackie) and Scott Hollan (Amy); his sisters: Bonnie Combs, Barbara Fugate and Dolly Hollan and his stepmother, Sue Hollan; special friends, Brenda Terry and Michael Stamper; as well as a host of nephews, nieces, extended family members and lifelong friends who will remember him fondly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Jr. and Elvira Large Hollan; his grandparents, Elijah and Maggie Hays Large and Ed and Mary Miller Hollan; his brothers, Robert Hollan, Doug Hollan and Edward Hollan III; his sister, Christine Hollan Turner and a special friend, Angie Raleigh.

Visitation for Bryce will begin Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at the Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel beginning at 11:00 AM with the funeral service to begin at 1:00 PM with Anthony Mullins officiating. Burial will follow in the Hollan Cemetery at Canoe with John Hollan, Charles Hollan, Steven Combs and Kevin Moore serving as pallbearers.

May the memory of Bryce bring comfort to all who knew him.

12/19/2025

Ellen Turner, age 91, of Talbert, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening December 18, 2025, at her home on Turners Creek, with her loving son by her side. She was born September 22, 1934, in Breathitt County, Kentucky, to the late William and Rachel Herald.

Ellen devoted 36 years of her life to education, retiring as a teacher with the Breathitt County School System. Through her work, she touched the lives of countless students and families and was respected for her dedication and care.

She enjoyed gardening, reading, and sitting on the porch, but especially cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. A woman of strong faith, Ellen was a member of the Macedonia Old Regular Baptist Church and also attended the Turners Creek Mennonite Church for many years.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 27 years, Rob Turner; her brothers, Joe Ed Herald, Johnny Herald, William Herald, and Elliot Herald; her sisters, Grace Herald and Ruth Eads; her son-in-law, William Mack "Bill" Hall; her sister-in-law, Alice Herald.

She is survived by her son, Gary (Teri) Turner; her daughters, Brenda (Bill) Hall, Martha (Jim) Tyra, and Rachel (Stephen) Shepherd; her sisters, Elizabeth (Felbert) Brewer, Wanda Herald, and Polly (Junior) Raleigh; her grandchildren, Robert (Rachel) Hall, Roger (Raeanne) Hall, Chelcie Tyra, and Kenneth Hisle; and her great-grandchildren, Reed Hall, Berkley Hall, Owen Hall, and Westin Hall, Kaylee Hisle, and Axel Hisle; her sisters-in-law, Betty Herald and Arminda Herald.

Visitation for Ellen will be held at the Turners Creek Mennonite Church on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Her funeral service will be conducted at the church on Monday, December 22, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m., with Phil Swartzentruber, Paul Hall, and Pat Turner officiating. Burial will follow in the Alice B. Turner Cemetery at Turners Creek.

Nephews Noah Jenkins, Reuben Turner, Sigel Turner, Darrell Herald, William Albert Herald, Jeff Appleton, and Roger Cole will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers Ellen request donations to The National Kidney Foundation or American Heart Association.

“Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord… that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.”
Revelation 14:13

12/18/2025

Ralph Hayes, age 72, of Jackson, Kentucky, entered eternal rest on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at his home in Jackson, Kentucky. He was born on January 19, 1953, in New Hampshire.

Ralph was a proud United States Marine who honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he spent many years as a cross‑country truck driver before retiring, a career that reflected his strong work ethic and independent spirit.

Ralph enjoyed playing cards, drinking coffee, smoking ci******es, watching sports, and spending time with his family. He had a deep love for animals and was well known for his honesty; if you asked Ralph his opinion, you could always count on getting the truth, whether it hurt your feelings or not.

He is survived by his two sons, Jared (Brittini) Hayes and Jason (Cora) Tillet; his grandchildren, Tessa Wyrick, Daylon Wyrick, Chloey Hayes, Tenley Hayes, Harper Hayes, and Legend Hayes; the mother of his children, Tonia Engle; his special niece, Vanessa Taulbee; his special nephew, Andre Taulbee; and his special friends, Mike Hundley, Jarrod Hollan, David Warren, Jason Miller, Jesse Miller, Brian Napier, Greg Taulbee, and Angela Noble.

Visitation for Ralph will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. His funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with John Bunn officiating.

Ralph will be remembered for his loyalty, his straightforward nature, and the love he held for his family and friends.

12/18/2025

Judy Patrick, age 79, of Breathitt County, Kentucky, went to her Heavenly home on December 18, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Born on November 28, 1946, in Breathitt County, Judy lived a life filled with love, faith, and devotion to those she cherished. She was married to the love of her life, Ray Patrick, for 60 wonderful years. Together they built a family grounded in strength, kindness, and deep affection.

Judy is survived by her husband, Ray Patrick; her children, Jane Ann Noble, Jackie Ross, and Jeff (Kathy) Patrick; grandchildren, Jessica (Justin) Neace, Jason (Sondra) Noble, Jeremy (Gabrielle) Ross, Bradley Ross, Kristian (Chris) Stamper, Tyler Patrick; and nine great-grandchildren who lovingly called her theirs. She is also survived by her siblings Pam Potter, Daisy (Ted) Kalen, Tommy Gross, and David (Sue) Gross.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hargis and Jane Gross; brothers, Glen Gross and Melvin Gross; and sister, Grace Gross.

Judy’s passions were as warm and vibrant as her heart. She enjoyed flower gardening, reading books, sewing, and cooking big meals for her family. Her home was always filled with love, laughter, and the comforting smells of her delicious meals. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, generosity, and unconditional love.

A Celebration of Life for Judy will be held at a later date. Per her wishes, there will be no formal funeral or burial service.

Her family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace in her Heavenly home, reunited with loved ones who passed before her. Though she is no longer physically present, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

12/15/2025

Virgil “Munk” Deaton Jr., age 72, of Franklin, Ohio, formerly of Breathitt County, Kentucky, entered eternal rest on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at his residence.

He was born September 4, 1953, in Ary, Kentucky, to the late Virgil Deaton Sr. and Laura Herald Deaton.

Virgil was a dedicated worker and was employed as a tow motor operator at Frasure Paper Mill until becoming disabled. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures—sitting outside by the firepit with his beloved dog, watching a wide variety of Westerns on television, and faithfully following General Hospital, a favorite he learned to love from his mother. Above all, Virgil cherished time spent with his family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Lillie Richardson and Polly Deaton.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Cathy Lou Burgher Deaton; two sons, Ronnie Deaton and Johnnie Deaton; one daughter, Trina-Kay Hobbs; brothers, Johnny Deaton, Jesse Deaton, and Carl Deaton; sisters, Julia Deaton, Georgia Collins, America Richardson, Nancy Neace, Martha Strong, and Ruth Irving; and twelve cherished grandchildren.

Visitation for Virgil will be held Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at The Breathitt Funeral Home and his Funeral service will be conducted Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. with Albert Little and Silas Hall officiating.

Burial will follow in the Jesse Hall Cemetery at Talbert, Kentucky, with friends and family serving as pallbearers.

Virgil will be remembered for his quiet strength, deep love for his family, and appreciation for life’s simple moments.