http://www.thebreathittfuneralhome.com/

Breathitt Funeral Home & Monument Co., 409 Highway 15 South; PO Box 201, Jackson, KY (2026)

01/30/2026

Virgil Lee Johnson, 57, of Jackson, Kentucky, passed away Tuesday, January 27, 2026 in Hazard, Kentucky. Born on June 29, 1968 in Campton, Kentucky, he spent his life rooted in the Appalachian hills he called home.

Virgil was a skilled mason by trade and took pride in his work. He used his craftsmanship to support his family.

For over three decades, Virgil shared his life with his beloved wife of 31 years, Ina Gayle Bowling Johnson. He is also survived by three daughters: Tasha Shepherd (Aaron), Sarah Johnson (Felicia) and Brandi Johnson (Berlin). His love for his family was evident in every part of his life, especially in the joy he found spending time with his grandchildren—Jordan, Kenzlee, Bekah, Paxton, Dennis, Aaron, Baylee, and Kobi—who brought him endless laughter and pride.

Virgil was a man who embraced life’s pleasures. He loved going on vacation and savoring all the food along the way. Music was another passion; attending concerts brought him great happiness. But above all else, it was time spent with his grandbabies that filled his heart most.

He was a member of Second Creek Church of God where he found spiritual strength and fellowship.

Virgil was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Combs Johnson; his father, Virgil Lee Napier and his grandmother, Norah Combs. Their memories remained close to him throughout his life.

Visitation for Virgil is scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026 at the Breathitt Funeral Home from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM with his funeral service being held Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM with Merrill Collins officiating.

Burial will follow in the Bailey Cemetery at Roark Mountain in Jackson with Aaron Shepherd, Berlin Taulbee, Raymond Lovins, Hank Campbell, Roland Bailey Jr., Kelvin Napier, Willard Robinson and Skint Noble serving as pallbearers. Serving as honorary pallbearer will be Bob Minix.

His presence will be deeply missed by those who knew him—a man whose laughter echoed through family gatherings and whose steady hands built more than just walls—they built a life full of love.

May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn him.

01/29/2026

Crystal Ritchie Smith, 46 of Jackson, Kentucky passed away Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at the Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson, Kentucky. Born on May 1, 1979 in Lexington, Kentucky, she brought warmth and dedication to every aspect of her life.

Crystal earned a bachelor's degree and devoted her professional career to caring for others as a dietary manager at the local nursing home. Her work reflected her deep sense of responsibility and compassion for those around her.

She was a longtime member of Lee City First Church of God, where her faith was an important part of her life and community.

Crystal cherished time spent with her family. Whether tending to her beloved flowers in the garden or working around the house, she found joy in simple moments. She especially loved playing with her children and her grandchildren creating memories filled with laughter and love.

She is survived by her husband of 29 years, Bobby Smith; her son, Samual Smith; her daughter, Briana McIntosh (Mark); her granddaughters, Clara and Emily McIntosh; her brother, Jimmy Ritchie; and her sisters, Peggy Colley and Judy Knarr.

Crystal was preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Matilda (Clemons) Ritchie and her siblings Jack, Carol, Eva, Sam Jr., Ricky Lynn, and Noah.

Visitation for Crystal will begin Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 5:00 - 9:00 PM at the Breathitt Funeral Home with the funeral service scheduled to begin Sunday, February 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM with Stanley Burnette officiating.

Burial will follow in the Clemons Ritchie Cemetery at Southfork with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

May Crystal’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

01/26/2026

Martha Jo (Spencer) Hollan, 77, of Canoe, Ky, formerly of Union, Ky passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026 at The Greg and Noreen Wells Hospice Center in Hazard, with her loving daughter, Natalie by her side.

Martha Jo’s life was spent taking care of others. Many times over the years, she said all she ever wanted to do in life was to be a good mommy. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, who far exceeded her goal of being a good mommy. She took her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and cousin very seriously with deep passion and love.

Martha Jo embraced being a grandmother, her five granddaughers were her world. She unintentionally taught the oldest, Jessica, how to cuss and intentionally the youngest, Morgan, how to cheat at checkers. Her happiest years were those helping her daughters raise their daughters. Neither could have done so without Martha Jo’s love and dedication to her family.

Martha Jo is survived by her husband of 56 years, Granville Lynn Hollan of Canoe,Ky. She also leaves behind her daughters; Stephanie Lynn Hollan of Union, Ky & Natalie Grace Hollan of Canoe, Ky. Grandaughers; Jessica Hollan, Taylor (Paul) Lampone, Sarah Hollan, Haley Courtney and Morgan Courtney. Martha Jo was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren; Hannah, Julianne, Carter, Noah, Elijah, Gabriel, Violet (Bird), Jeremiah, and Damian. She also leaves behind her brother Eugene (Shawn) Spencer of Sisters, Oregon and many nieces and nephews she loved so much.

She was greeted in Heaven by her parents, Chester and Gracie Spencer. Sisters; Irene Pope, Christine Caldwell, Rosa Mae Hall, Lucy Hall, Imogene Gross, Mary Elizabeth Spencer and Anna Grace McIntosh. Brothers; Chester Jr, CJ, Roy, Lee, Dexter and Johnny Spencer.

Martha Jo will be remembered for her lifelong love & dedication towards her family and her sense of humor. She will also be lovingly remembered as someone who spoke her mind and told you exactly what she thought.

A Celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

01/22/2026

Roy Trent, 79 of Jackson, Kentucky departed this earthly life on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at the Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson, Kentucky. Born on August 21, 1946 in Frozen, Kentucky, Roy lived a life rooted in hard work, family devotion, and community spirit.

Roy dedicated his life to skilled trades and labor that reflected his strong work ethic and hands-on nature. Over the years, he worked as a logger, plumber, and electrician—professions that not only showcased his versatility but also his commitment to providing for those around him. He especially loved logging and working at the sawmill, where he found both purpose and pride in his craft.

A man of many talents and interests, Roy enjoyed working on cars and tending to his chickens. His faithful dog Peaches was never far from his side. Whether fixing an engine or caring for animals, Roy found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was known as a friend to all—someone who welcomed others with warmth and sincerity.

Roy was a devoted member of New Light Community Church, where he found spiritual strength and fellowship throughout the years.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Miriam Elizabeth Trent; daughters, Lisa Rogers (Dale) and Linda Dexter Stacy (Kano); and Joshua "Bubbs" Fletcher, his nephew whom he raised as a son. Roy also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Lance Dexter, Justin Dexter, Jesse Artley, and John Artley; as well as great-grandchildren, Eli Artley and Jesse Ray Artley.

He is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Thelma Berans, Rhonda Lee Braham, Paula Ann Litton, Lorine King, Katherine Legget; his brothers, Jesse Trent (Madonna) and Doris Trent; his stepdaughters, Tammy Banks, Leanna Weathers and Melissa Pelfrey (Brian); his stepsons, Colin Jordan and Paul Jordan; along with a host of nieces and nephews who held him dear.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Mary Trent; daughter, Meghan Alexandra Trent and siblings, Betty Arnett, Pauline Elam, Lucille King, Imogene King, and Jeffery Trent.

Visitation for Roy will be held Friday, January 23, 2026 at the Breathitt Funeral Home beginning at 11:00 AM with the funeral service scheduled to begin at 1:00 PM with David McIntosh officiating.

Burial will follow in the Tyra Cemetery at Frozen, Kentucky with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

Roy’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched with kindness and generosity. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

01/18/2026

Beverly Stevens, 55, passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at her home at Vancleve, Kentucky. Born on December 20, 1970 in Ohio, she lived a life marked by dedication to her family and quiet acts of care that touched many.

A Breathitt High School graduate, Beverly worked as an aide at the nursing home, where her compassion and steady presence brought comfort to those in her care. Her work reflected the same nurturing spirit she carried into every aspect of her life.

Beverly was married to Paul Stevens for 24 years. Together they built a loving home filled with laughter, resilience, and deep-rooted family bonds. She was a devoted mother to Britnie Stamper (Robert) and Nancy Baker (Chris Noble) and a proud grandmother to Matthew Stamper, Willow Noble, Aubrey Noble and Harper Noble. Her grandchildren were the light of her life—she cherished every moment spent playing with “Bubby” and the others. She also enjoyed playing with her loving dog, Rufus.

She is also remembered with love by her mother, Sue Baker; her brother, Robert Baker; and her sisters: Mary Baker (John Barnett), Lisa Roberts (Jason), and Mima Miller (Tracy). Beverly shared a special bond with her niece Kylie Gross and her nephews, Brandon Miller and Jacob Miller, along with a host of other nieces and nephews who held a unique place in her heart .

Beverly was preceded in death by her father, Earnest Baker and her father-in-law, Charles Stevens.

Her hobbies reflected the warmth she brought into the world—gardening among her flowers, sewing with care and creativity, canning with skill passed down through generations and spending joyful hours with her grandchildren.

She found spiritual nourishment as a faithful listener of the radio ministry of the Boone Fork Church.

Visitation for Beverly will be held Monday, January 19, 2026 at the Breathitt Funeral Home from 5:00 - 9:00 PM and her funeral service will be held Tuesday, January 20, 2026 beginning at 1:00 PM with John Tincher and Charles Stevens Jr. officiating.

Burial will follow in the Stevens Cemetery at Vancleve, Kentucky with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

Beverly’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her memory bring comfort and peace to all who mourn her passing.

01/12/2026

Ruth Alsept, a beloved member of the community, passed away on January 10, 2026, in New Albany, IN. She was born on September 28, 1946, in Perry County, KY, and throughout her life, she became known for her vibrant personality and her deep commitment to her family.

Ruth worked at Consolidated Sales Company in Clarksville, IN, where she made lasting connections with those around her. Described as a spitfire and fireball, she possessed a great sense of humor, often approaching life with determination and a sense of adventure. Ruth's zest for life was further exemplified by her love for painting oil paintings, particularly those capturing the beauty of outdoor themes. She found joy in nurturing her flowerbeds and took great pleasure in organizing cookouts and family gatherings, where laughter and love were always present. Her affection for her roots was evident in her frequent visits to her family in Kentucky.

She is survived by her son, Hagan James Alsept Jr. (Cathy); granddaughter Alyssa Alsept; grandsons Logan Alsept and Ray Jenks; sister Juanita Noble (Taylor); sister Janice Miller; brother Dennis Landrum (Edith); nephew Paul Campbell; and numerous extended family members.

Ruth also had to face the loss of many loved ones throughout her life, including her parents, Luther and Ogie, her husband, Hagan James Alsept Sr., her daughter, Tonia Lee Samples, her sister, Alice Gabbard, and her brother, Shade "Dub" William Landrum. Despite these losses, she remained a strong pillar for her remaining family, surrounded by them in her final moments.

A visitation to honor Ruth's memory will be held on January 15, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life at Grayson Funeral Home - Charlestown, located at 893 High Street, Charlestown, IN. The celebration will commence at 2:00 PM and continue until 3:00 PM. Graveside service and burial will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at noon in the McIntosh Cemetery located in Clayhole, Ky.

Ruth Alsept will be fondly remembered for her spirited personality, her artistic talents, and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her legacy of warmth and camaraderie will linger in the hearts of all who knew her.

Breathitt Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements.

01/12/2026

Mary Lou Crase, age 42, passed away Sunday, January 11, 2026 at her home in Vancleve, Kentucky.

Mary was born on August 10, 1983 in Hazard, Kentucky to the late Roscoe and Louise Armstrong Taulbee.

She is survived by her special friend, Bradley Trent; her two sons, Dalton Taulbee (Jessie Noble) and Joshua Trent; her sisters, Melissa (Greg) Hollon, Margaret Feltner and Gladys Trent (Isaac "Junior" Bowling); host of grandchildren and her small dog, Sissy.

Mary cherished simple pleasures—she loved walking, being outdoors, and spending time with family. Whether enjoying nature or sharing quiet moments at home, she found peace in the everyday. Her small dog, Sissy, was a constant companion who brought her comfort and happiness.

Visitation for Mary will be held Thursday, January 15, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM with Clay Gross officiating. Burial will follow in the Armstrong and Taulbee Cemetery at Vancleve with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

01/06/2026

Esther Stevens, age 79, departed this earthly life on January 5, 2026 at the Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson, Kentucky.

Born on August 29, 1946 in Frozen, Kentucky, she was a lifelong resident and a woman of Pentecostal faith.

Esther was the widow of the late J. B. Stevens and the daughter of the late Dorsie and Essie Burgett Mullins. She was also preceded in death by her brothers; Manual Mullins, Carl D. Mullins and Kenneth Ray Mullins and her sister, Irene Mullins.

She is lovingly remembered by her sisters, Irene Gross (David) and Donna Faye Stevens. Esther also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews who will cherish their memories with her.

Throughout her life Esther found joy in simple pleasures. She loved playing bingo and painting pictures—creative outlets that brought color and laughter to her days. She enjoyed participating in games at the nursing home where she continued to share smiles and companionship with those around her.

Visitation for Esther will be held Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM with Leonard Carpenter officiating. Burial will follow in the Jackson Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

12/31/2025

Earnestine (Barnett) Gross, age 84, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 29, 2025 at the Baptist Health Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. Born on November 12, 1941, in Hazard, Kentucky, she lived a life rooted in faith, service and devotion to her family and community.

A proud high school graduate, Earnestine dedicated much of her life to caring for others both professionally and personally. She worked as a cook at Riverside Christian School, where she nourished generations of students with warmth and kindness. Later, she served as a cleaning lady at the Breathitt County Senior Citizens Center and embraced the role of homemaker with grace and diligence. Her commitment to helping others extended beyond her work—she was also a devoted volunteer with Helping Hands Christian Outreach.

Earnestine’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a founding member of Panbowl Full Gospel Church in Jackson, she helped build a spiritual home that nurtured many over the years. Her love for church was matched by her joy in singing hymns, reading her Bible and sharing fellowship with others.

In addition to her spiritual pursuits, Earnestine enjoyed scrapbooking cherished memories and spending time with loved ones. Her home was often filled with music and laughter—a testament to the love she poured into every aspect of her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 38 years, Donald Gross; her parents, Robert Fulton and Mary Mildred (Campbell) Barnett; brothers, Bobby Jo Barnett, Dan Barnett and Jerry Lee Barnett and sisters, Dorothy Mea Harvey and Beulah Fay Hicks.

Earnestine is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Donna Michelle Gross; her sons, Arnold Robert Gross, Dennis Gross, Wade Gross and Michael Gross; grandchildren, Andrew Gross, Justin Gross and Tiffany Noble and three great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her later years.

Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched—with compassion in service, strength in faith, and unwavering love for family.

Visitation for Earnestine will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel with funeral service scheduled at 1:00 PM with Gary Bellamy officiating. Burial will follow in the McDaniel Day Cemetery at Lothair with Bret Vaughn, Marshall Hayes, Zeth Vaughn, Andrew Gross, Scottie Lykins, Dennis Gross serving as pallbearers.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

Proverbs 31:26: “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.”

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

Breathitt Funeral Home & Monument Co.

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