Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society

11/27/2025

11/27/2025

Judy Seawright Lassiter, of Benton, Kentucky, passed away on November 13, 2025, at the Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah. She was born on August 4, 1953, in Cairo, Illinois, to the late Edward Lewis Seawright and Mary Alice Haynes Seawright.

Judy's journey in healthcare began while serving as a Candy Striper at Cairo Hospital, an experience that ignited her lifelong commitment to nurturing those around her. After earning an Associate's Degree in Nursing from Paducah Community College in 1974, she embarked on a career filled with empathy and dedication. Her first role as a nurse began at Mayfield Community Hospital, where she worked in Labor and Delivery. Judy's professional path then led her to work at Missouri Delta Community Hospital in Sikeston, Missouri, where she specialized in Dialysis. Despite her intense phobia of bridges, Judy's determination never wavered, thanks to the support of her husband, Chalon, who helped her travel to work each day. Later, Judy's career led her to accept a role at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah. It was there that she made significant contributions to the PCU and CCU for 25 years before transitioning to Lourdes Homecare. During this period, she furthered her education by obtaining a BSN from Indiana Wesleyan University, solidifying her role as a Registered Nurse. Even in the latter stages of her career, Judy's passion for helping others was apparent, as she extended her expertise to various nursing homes within her community. As an MDS, she served both Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation in Paducah and Birchtree Nursing Home in Clinton. Judy later brought her gentle touch and kind spirit to Lake Way Nursing and Rehabilitation, where she specialized in wound care. Her prestigious career concluded after a fulfilling 7 years as an MDS at Stone Creek Nursing and Rehabilitation in Paducah, leading up to her well-deserved retirement.

As a devoted Christian, Judy expressed her faith through every act of kindness and selflessness, both professionally and personally. In her spare time, she pursued various hobbies and interests, balancing them with her demanding nursing career. She also ventured into entrepreneurship by selling Paparazzi Jewelry, creating numerous friendships over the years. When it was time to unwind, Judy enjoyed crafts, diving into books, or tackling crossword puzzles. An adventurer at heart, she loved traveling and "glamping," as long as she could ensure she had air conditioning and proper plumbing. Above all, family was the center of her universe, and nothing brought her more joy than watching her children and grandchildren participate in sports, vacationing together, or simply coming together for family meals.

She is survived by her two daughters, Jennifer Elaine Fort (Richard) of Benton, and Shalin Rene Prince (Tracy Matheny) of Benton; her son, Brandon Edward Lassiter (Kelly) of Benton; her six grandchildren, Dalton Lee Fort, Madelyn Joy Fort, Kalyn Jade Lassiter, Brady Trey Lassiter, Kristen Lynn Domke, and Anna Alicia Fort; and her mother, Mary Alice Seawright.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Chalon Lassiter; her sister, Marilyn Joy Seawright; and her father, Edward Lewis Seawright.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, 1003 Poplar Street, in Benton, from 1pm until time of memorial service at 3pm. Bro. Mark Thweatt will officiate. Burial will follow at Ford Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.

11/27/2025

Paul Richard Owen, of La Center, passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Center in Paducah, KY. He was born on November 26, 1937, in Little Rock, Arkansas to Robert Edward and Gladys May Patillo Owen.

Richard was an entrepreneur. In 1970, he started Kevil Tool and Die which he owned and operated for 52 years until he retired in 2021. Richard loved life and enjoyed the great outdoors, spending most of his time hunting deer, squirrel, rabbit and dove. He was a member of Kevil Baptist Church and attended Oscar Baptist Church. He was an avid fisherman and competed in many bass tournaments. His hobbies were collecting knives and remote-control airplanes. Richard was a caring, kind and generous man who enjoyed helping others, living by the quote "To whom much is given, much is expected." His family was his pride and joy.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Sullivan Owen of La Center; two sons, Chris Owen (Deenna) of Paducah, and Mark Owen (Lindsey) of Paducah; four daughters, Debbie Denton (Kevin) of Bowling Green, Liz Damron of Kevil, Paula Melton (Tim) of La Center, and Cristie Johnson (Brett) of Murfreesboro, TN; thirteen grandchildren, David Denton, Julie Denton Price, Ryan Denton, David Paul Damron, Derrick Damron, Jennifer Mason Perry, Jake Mason, Farah Owen, Ryan Dunaway, Braden Johnson, Evan Johnson, Addi Carrico, and Landry Owen; and five great-grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Owen; an infant brother; two wives, Juliaette Owen and Ann Owen; and his parents.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 28, 2025, after 10:00 a.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center followed by memorial service at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Ryan Baker officiating. Interment will follow at Woodville Cemetery.

11/27/2025

Jason Womble, of Cunningham, passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2025, at Mercy Health Hospital.

Jason was born on October 16, 1978, in Paducah to Daniel and Donetta Davis Womble. He was known for his laughter, his genuine smile, and his gift for making anyone feel welcome. Whether with family, friends, or strangers, Jason had a way of turning simple conversations into lasting connections.

Jason dedicated his career to construction, a field he loved and took great pride in. His expertise with heavy equipment was unmatched, and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others. As a proud member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 181, Jason was respected not only for his skill but also for his camaraderie. His colleagues became like family, bound together by years of shared work and accomplishments.

Outside of work, Jason found joy in the outdoors. He especially cherished time spent with his sons during target practice, teaching lessons of responsibility and precision while building memories that will last a lifetime. He also loved riding four-wheelers and side-by-sides, navigating trails with the same confidence and enthusiasm that defined his approach to life.

Jason’s compassionate spirit and ability to connect with people left a lasting impression. His stories, his laughter, and his wisdom will continue to echo in the hearts of those who knew him. To be in Jason’s presence was to feel valued and heard, and that gift will not be forgotten.

Though his passing leaves a deep void, Jason’s legacy lives on in the paths he helped build, the friendships he nurtured, and the love he shared. His spirit remains a guiding light, and the foundation of kindness and strength he created will endure for generations to come.

Jason is survived by one daughter, Tesia Cook; three sons, Kolton Pearson (Abby), Aiden Toon, Caleb Womble; one sister, Susan Kilgore (Tony); his parents, Daniel and Donetta Womble; grandparents, Donald and Mary Jane Davis; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ishmael and Geneva Womble.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Dr. Shelton Smith officiating. Burial will follow the service at Cunningham Memorial Garden.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

11/27/2025

Margaret “Peggy” Strader Henshaw, of Bardwell, Kentucky, passed away on November 25, 2025, at her residence. Peggy was born on May 12, 1935, to Lorenzo Strader Sr. and Olivia Strader.

For more than 65 years, Peggy lived out her calling as a registered nurse, a profession that was not just her career but truly her identity. She cared for countless patients with a steady hand, a calm spirit, and a compassionate heart. Her dedication to healthcare extended far beyond the bedside—Peggy spent over 30 years teaching nursing and EMTs, shaping the future of caregiving through her knowledge and passion. She even authored the foundational curriculum for teaching LPNs, a contribution that continues to influence nursing education today.

Peggy was an avid reader, always learning, always curious, and always ready to share a book recommendation or a thoughtful insight. She found joy in deep friendships and maintained several cherished relationships throughout her life. Peggy was active in the Women of the Church and a member of the Bardwell Christian Church.

For 65 years, Peggy was the devoted wife of her beloved husband, creating a lifetime of memories built on love, laughter, and steadfast partnership. Family was her greatest blessing, and she took immense pride in her children and grandchildren, celebrating their milestones and nurturing them with her gentle encouragement and quiet strength.

Peggy will be remembered for her wisdom, her warmth, and her unwavering belief in caring for others.

Peggie is survived by her three daughters, Nancy Philpott of Bardwell, Maureen Delgado of Frankfort, and Loren Fruzza of Bardwell; one son, William Gordon Henshaw, of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; one brother, Lorenzo Dow Strader Jr. of Bristol, Tennessee; seven grandchildren, Maurya (Josh) Allen of Frankfort, Jessmyn (TJ) Evans of Lexington, Ian Delgado of Frankfort, Leighla Philpott of Cincinnati, Andrew Philpott of Bardwell, Dayna (Syd) Bennett of Bardwell, and Anthony R. Fruzza of Susanville, California; six great-grandchildren, Liam Evans, Aedyn Evans, James Allen, Sophia Allen, Anthony E. Fruzza, and Geno Fruzza; and one great-great grandchild, Logan Fruzza.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Gordon Henshaw; a brother, Judson William Strader; and her parents.

There are no services scheduled at this time.

Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Bardwell are handling arrangements.

11/27/2025

Dwight Edward Potter passed away peacefully on Monday, November 24, 2025, at his home in Wickliffe, Kentucky.

Born on February 13, 1964, Dwight lived as a man of faith. He was a regular attendee of Faith Missionary Baptist Church in Wickliffe. His belief was a cornerstone of his life, guiding his daily actions and providing comfort and strength. He was a proud graduate of Carlisle County High School, class of 1982.

Dwight's foundation in education paved the way for a successful career as a self-employed carpenter. With skilled hands and a keen eye for detail, he crafted beautiful pieces that served as the framework for many homes and the treasured possessions of countless families. Dwight's talents extended beyond his professional life into his personal passions. Construction was not just a job for him; it was a way to express his creativity and leave a lasting legacy. His devotion to his family was unparalleled. He loved nothing more than spending time with them, sharing in their joys and celebrations, and being a steadfast presence in their lives. Dwight's role as a husband was one he held most dear, and his unwavering love for his wife was evident to all who knew them.

Dwight is survived by his loving wife of twelve years, Darla Chandler Potter of Wickliffe; two sons, Scott (Mylinda) Burnett of Paducah, and Dustin (Brittany) Smith of Wickliffe; ten grandchildren, Landyn Burnett, Darren Smith, Daegan Smith, Cayden Smith, Baylen Smith, Kasyn Burnett, Leegan Smith, Aurora Turner, Michael Smith, and Palmer Smith; a sister, Debra Potter Wright of Paducah; and three brothers, Michael (Brittany) Potter of Barlow, Rob (Julie) Potter of Melbourne, Florida, and Tim Potter of Englewood, Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, November 29, 2025, 1:00 PM, at Faith Missionary Baptist Church in Wickliffe, Kentucky, with Bro. Billie Prince and Bro. Cory Holt officiating. Burial will follow at Wickliffe City Cemetery.

Visitation will also be held at Faith Missionary Baptist Church on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 11:00 AM until the service hour of 1:00 PM.

Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe is in charge of arrangements.

Expressions of Sympathy may be made in the form of contributions to Faith Missionary Baptist Church, 585 Barlow Road, Wickliffe KY 42087.

11/19/2025

Huellen Terry Edwards, of Bardwell, Kentucky, passed away on November 18, 2025, at her residence. She was born in Bardwell on February 15, 1931, to William and Pearl Terry.

Huellen was a devoted Christian woman and a member of the Bethlehem Baptist Church. Her steadfast belief in the Lord guided every part of her life, and in her last few days, she asked her family, “Are you saved and will I see you again?”

Huellen dedicated many years of service as the Food Service Director for Carlisle County Schools, where she cared deeply for the students and staff she served. Her work was more than a job-it was a part of her ministry, and she poured her heart into ensuring others were cared for. She cherished her family above all, and her loyal dog, Sadie, was her constant companion and best friend. Fridays were reserved for her weekly outing to the beauty shop, a tradition she always looked forward to. Huellen also loved basketball and was an enthusiastic fan of her Kentucky Wildcats. She also loved the St. Louis Cardinals-especially when they were playing well.

Huellen will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her kindness, and the warmth she brought into the lives of everyone who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the blessing of crossing her path.

Huellen is survived by her best friend and dog, Sadie; children, Tamara (Rod) Collard of Murphysboro, Illinois, and Dwayne (Barb) Edwards of Bardwell; one sister, Nancy Poole of South Fulton, Tennessee; four grandchildren, Treva (James) Cobb of Paducah, Kentucky, Cassie (Michael) Nichols of Bardwell, Lindsey (Adam) Moore of Carterville, Illinois, and Morgan (John) Rathjen of Murphysboro, Illinois; eight great grandchildren, Shelton West, Shively Jones, Mason Jones, Chloe Nichols, Chase Nichols, Deacon Rathjen, Baylor Rathjen, and Re*****on Elle Moore; one great-great grandchild, Kain West; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, TC Edwards; two sisters, Ethel Sims and Mary Beth Bishop; three brothers, Hazel Terry, GH Terry, and Johnny Wayne Terry; and her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Cunningham, Kentucky, with Bro. Tim Harvey officiating. Burial will follow at Zoar Cemetery in Cunningham, Kentucky.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the service time of 1:00 p.m. also on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the church.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Church, PO Box 468, Cunningham, KY, 42035 or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704. Hagerstown, MD 21741.

11/16/2025

Betty Lou Shelby Jerrell, of Kevil, Kentucky, left her earthly home for her heavenly home on Friday, November 14, 2025. She was born March 26, 1935, in the Kevil area of Ballard County to Terry and Eileen Hook Shelby.

Betty was a long-time employee of the Kevil Bank and began her career there when she was in high school. She continued to work there part-time through the years until returning to full-time in 1977 in the loan department. She became Vice President in the early 1990s and continued in that capacity until she retired in June 2013, when the Kevil Bank was sold. She and her husband, Hugh, were involved in the harness horse industry for many years, where Hugh owned, trained, and drove harness horses. They and their children would spend each summer living in the Louisville and Lexington area, racing, and return home each fall to train on their farm in Kevil.

Betty was an accomplished pianist and organist and began playing at the Kevil Methodist Church when she was in her early teens. She has continued to play the organ there until early October of this year. Through the years, she played for many weddings, funerals, and occasions in the area. She was a lifelong, devoted member of the Kevil United Methodist Church and also a 40-year member of the Ballard County Homemakers and Kevil Junior Homemakers Club. She was also a volunteer for Ballard County 4H over the past years. Most of all, she was a devoted and loving Mother and Grandmother, “Maw Betty” to her children, grandchildren, and many others.

She is survived by her daughter, Joni Jordan of Kevil; son, Randal (Paula) Jerrell of Kevil; Grandsons, Jeremy (Ashlee) Jordan of Kevil, and Clayton (Carli) Jerrell of Newburgh, Indiana; great-grandsons, Nash Jordan and Wyatt Jerrell; great-granddaughters, Savannah and Emma Henderson; and sister, Ruth Bowles.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh Thomas (HT) Jerrell; son-in-law, Mark Edward Jordan; and a sister, Ann Trent.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Pastor Cindy Engelhardt officiating. Burial will follow at Woodville Cemetery.

Visitation will also be held from 10:00 am until the service time of 1:00 pm on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Woodville Cemetery Fund, c/o Pat Sullivan, 1031 New Liberty Church Rd, Kevil KY 42053.

11/16/2025

At the age of 70, Allen Damron passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by the family he cherished. He was born March 6, 1955, to A.E. and Ann Leible Damron.

Allen was a man of deep and steadfast faith. He did not merely know the principles of a Christian life - he lived them every day. He was caring, giving, loving, and always willing to step forward when others were in need. "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven." (Matthew 5:16, NIV)

When the devasting 2009 ice storm struck Ballard County, Allen was out in the snow and ice clearing driveways, retrieving fuel from Damron Oasis so neighbors could keep warm, and delivering generators to elderly members of the community. No task was too great, no need too small. If Allen could help, he would.

For 42 years, Allen owned and operated Damron TV and Appliance, serving his community with honesty and dedication. He faithfully served in his church and as a director of Green Wing and Ducks Unlimited, where he taught young people about gun safety, conservation, and the value of responsible stewardship - lessons rooted in respect for God's creation.

An avid outdoorsman, Allen found joy and peace in the world God placed around him. He was a hunter, a fisherman, and a golfer. These passions were not only hobbies but avenues for passing down wisdom about responsibility, trustworthiness, and gratitude for God's handiwork. Allen and Paula shared a love that was steadfast and tender. Married on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii, they built a life marked by companionship, laughter, and devotion. They golfed together, rode through the river bottoms together, and sometimes even hunted together. But their most treasured ritual was their quiet mornings sitting side by side in their bay window, overlooking the pond, watching for geese, and doing their daily devotions together.

Allen was hardworking, God - loving, and family – centered, a man who embraced life fully and never shied away from helping others. He left this world with love in his heart and joy in his spirit, confident in the promise of eternal life.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but we rejoice in knowing this is not goodbye. We will see him again in Heaven.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 37 years, Paula Damron; his son, Greg Damron and daughter-in-law, Anna, of Barlow; his daughter, Mieghan Damron of Mt. Vernon, IL; his grandchildren, Korbyn and Kai Walker of Mt. Vernon, and Larry Damron of Barlow; his great-grandchildren Wade and Lydia Walker of Mt. Vernon; his brothers, Gary (Shari) Damron of La Center, Gene (Annette) Damron of Kevil, and David Damron of La Center; along with many nieces, nephews and his beloved church family at Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Allen was preceded in death by his parents, A.E. and Ann Leible Damron.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, after 10:00 a.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center followed by funeral service at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Drew Gray officiating.

Interment will follow in St. Mary's Catholic Church Cemetery.

11/10/2025

Robert Charles Wray, known as Robbie to his loved ones, passed away on November 7, 2025, in Paducah, Kentucky. Born on January 27, 1999, Robbie lived 26 years full of energy, kindness, and laughter.

Robbie was a talented concrete finisher and a skilled mechanic. He could fix just about anything, and people trusted him for his hard work and know-how. Whether it was a building or an engine, Robbie gave it his best.

He loved being active and outdoors. As a kid, he enjoyed baseball and riding dirt bikes. Later, his love for loud trucks became part of who he was-bold and full of life.

Music came naturally to Robbie. He could pick up a guitar, play a tune, and sing along, always bringing joy to those around him. While living in Franklin, Kentucky, he was the lead guitarist during worship at the church he attended. He also had a great sense of humor and loved teasing friends and family in a way that made everyone laugh.

Robbie will be remembered for his big heart, his many talents, and the way he made life brighter for others. His spirit lives on in the stories, smiles, and memories shared by those who knew and loved him.

Robbie is survived by his mother, Christine “Chris” Rowe (Wayne) of Fancy Farm; father, Chuck Wray of Kevil; one son, Colton Wray of Florida; one brother, Tyler Smith of Paducah; one niece, Claire Smith of Paducah; maternal grandmother, Peggy Smith of Boaz; paternal grandparents, Kenneth and Bobbie Wray of Kevil; and several aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Charles “Charlie” Smith.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 1:00 p.m., at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Pastor Boogie Butler officiating. Burial will follow the service at New Liberty Cemetery.

Visitation will also be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105 or The Gideons International, PO Box 140800, Nashville TN 37214.