http://www.ballardcarlislekygenealogy.com/

Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society, PO Box 279, 257 N 4th Street, Wickliffe, KY (2026)

02/05/2026

Paul Edward Newman, of Paducah, passed away peacefully at his residence on January 30, 2026. He was born on October 22, 1938, in Kevil, Kentucky, to O.T. and Evelyn Lanier Newman.

Paul devoted 31 years of his professional life to the Whayne Supply Co., where he established cherished relationships and earned the respect of his colleagues. He was a man of many interests; his love for Nascar, professional wrestling, and college basketball—particularly the University of Kentucky and UConn Women's Basketball—were well-known among his family and friends. An avid racing enthusiast, Paul proudly owned and raced stock cars, further igniting his passion for the sport throughout the years.

Beyond his hobbies, Paul was proud of his contributions to his church community. He taught Sunday school and served other various roles at Southland Baptist Temple, reflecting his commitment to faith and service for over 50 years.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Theresa Newman, of Paducah; his sons, Michael Newman and Kevin Newman, both of Paducah; his grandsons, Devin Newman and Dalton Newman; and his sister, Shirley Payne of Paducah.

Paul was preceded in death by his brother, Bill Newman; his brother-in-law, Bill Payne; and his parents, O.T. and Evelyn Newman.

Visitation will be held on February 5, 2026, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, at Keeling & Goodman Funeral Home in Paducah. A funeral service will be held on February 6, 2026, 11:00 AM, also at Keeling & Goodman Funeral Home with Bro. Jonathan Goodman officiating. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community member, Paul exemplified a life filled with love and dedication. His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

02/03/2026

Lillie Mae Lynn Sharer, of the Slater Community, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Baptist Health in Paducah. She was born on May 3, 1932, in McCracken County to Jackson D. and Mattie Jane (Callis) Lynn.

Lillie was a member of Antioch Baptist Church and past member of the Slater Homemakers. She enjoyed quilting, sewing, gardening and working in her flowers. Lillie loved road trips, whether it was to the mountains or to the beach, she enjoyed every minute of it. She was wonderful cook and enjoyed cooking for her family and friends.

Lillie is survived by a son, Jackie Lynn Sharer of Wickliffe; a daughter, Dona Boulton (Jeff) of Kevil; a brother, Ray Lynn (Naomi) of Wickliffe; four grandchildren, Jeffrey Sharer, Jason Boulton, Chris Sharer and Cody Boulton; seven great grandchildren, Abby Boulton, Nic Boulton, Lindsey Richardson, Austin Sharer, Jake Sharer, Liam Boulton and Aubrey Sharer; and one great great granddaughter, Audrey Richardson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Nelson Sharer; one son, Larry Sharer; one sister, Earlene Russell; three brothers, Morris Lynn, Bill Lynn, and Cecil Lynn; and her parents.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, after 11:00 a.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center. Memorial services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Mitch Boulton officiating.

Interment will be in Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery.

02/02/2026

Jesse Leigh Abernathy Eidson entered her heavenly rest on January 31, 2026, at her home in Bandana. Born on September 21, 1923, in Bandana, to Jesse and Lena Titsworth Abernathy, Jesse exemplified resilience and compassion throughout her 102 years.

Known for her exceptional work ethic and intricate knowledge of the land, Jesse was a devoted homemaker and farm wife, as well as an integral part of the community. Alongside her husband of 62 years, Boyce Rudell Eidson, she was skilled in raising and harvesting chickens, dairy cattle, and beef cattle. Her hands were rarely still, as she tirelessly made biscuits three times a day - a tradition that became a cherished memory for family and friends alike.

A faithful Christian, Jesse was very active at the Bible Baptist Church, and later she became an integral member of the Heartland Worship Center. Her unwavering devotion was an inspiration and a testament to her enduring faith in Jesus.

She will be remembered as a remarkable woman whose dedication to her family, her farm, and her faith were the hallmarks of her long and fruitful life

Jesse is survived by her two sons, Robert Neil (Coralie) Eidson of Bandana and Larry Lynn Eidson (Leah) of Paducah; three grandchildren, John Tyler Eidson, Eric Mansfield Eidson, and Meredith Leigh Eidson Ehrenheim; twelve great-grandchildren, Susanna Moran, Brandie Malizia, Lauren Anderson, Samantha Eidson, Wesley Eidson, Alex Eidson, John Stevens, Calleigh Eidson, Cameron Eidson, Ellis Ehrenheim, Owen Ehrenheim, and Anne Ehrenheim; and several great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Boyce Rudell Eidson; one brother, George Robert (Clorius) Abernathy; one grandson, Gregory Neil Eidson; and her parents.

A funeral service will be held at 1 P.M. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Dr. Nathan Joyce officiating. Visitation will begin at 11 A.M. and continue until the service begins at 1 P.M. Burial will follow at the Providence Baptist Church Cemetery in the Needmore community.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of gifts to the Gideons International, Paducah West Camp, PO Box 10, Kevil Kentucky 42053.

01/28/2026

Charles Rice, of Kevil, passed away Monday, January 26, 2026, at Baptist Health Paducah. Charles was born in Fresno, California, on December 4, 1939, to Milford Rice and Myrtle Moore Cochran.

Charles retired as a truck driver, having driven coast to coast for many years, then moved to the Gage Community in Ballard County to be near family. He was a veteran of the United States Navy. An avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys Football for years, he also kept up with Texas Tech College Football. Charles loved fishing and spending time with his family.

Survivors include one local niece, Tamara Buchanan, Eddyville: four nephews, Mark (Torrie) Buchanan of Paducah, Wade (Lou Ann) Buchanan of Kevil, Russ (Debbie) Buchanan of Benton, and Brent (Michelle) Buchanan of West Paducah; sister-in-law, Genice Cook, Cooksville, OK; and several great-nieces and great nephews.

Preceding in death were four sisters, Frances Buchanan, Sharon Dewey, Ocie Jaquess, and Virginia Moore; two brothers, Zack Cook and Grady Hoy; and his parents.

Private family graveside services will be held with Rev. Ross Buchanan officiating.

Expression of sympathy may be made to Children’s Home, 3400 Bowie Street, Amarillo TX 79109.

Arrangements made by the Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

01/28/2026

Jeanette Blaine Jones, of La Center, passed away at Massac Memorial Hospital on January 21, 2026. Jeanette was born on January 14, 1957, to Alvadia and Mary Blaine.

A faithful servant of the Lord, Jeanette was a devoted member of New Covenant Community Church, where she sang in the choir, helped wherever needed, and never failed to testify of the goodness of God. Her faith was sincere and humble, and her love for the Lord was evident in all she did.

Jeanette enjoyed simple joys, including shopping at His House Ministries and spending meaningful time with her family, whom she loved deeply and fiercely. Family meant everything to her, and she poured her heart into those she loved, always making sure they knew it.

While Jeanette was known for her kind spirit and servant’s heart, she also had a legendary spark. Those who knew her best would say that if pushed far enough, Jeanette could “fight a circle saw” — a humorous testament to her strength and grit.
Jeanette’s life was marked by faith, love, and an unshakable spirit. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered by her family, her church family, and all who were blessed to know her.

Jeanette is survived by her two sons, Donald Stephen Busby of Barlow, Kentucky, and Michael Adams of Barlow; one sister, Elizabeth Hacker of Bardwell; six grandchildren, Colton Busby, Caprice Busby, Amanda Carter, Sawyer Dale Adams, Josh Nalley, and Abbi Nalley; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Donnie Busby; her second husband, Anthony Jones; her infant twin sister, Julie Blaine; and her parents.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe with Bro. Dee Hazelwood officiating.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the service time of 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe.

01/27/2026

Gary Payne Sr., of Wickliffe, Kentucky, passed away on January 26, 2026, at his home. He was born on July 16, 1956, to Jack and Maimi Payne.

Gary was a man who lived life hands-on, outdoors, and surrounded by the people he loved most. He began his dedication to the Barlow Fire Department at just 16 years old. His commitment spanned decades, including time serving as Fire Chief—a role he carried with pride. In addition to his service as a firefighter, Gary spent more than 10 years working for himself in lawn care.

Gary loved the simple joys of life: family Jeep ride outings, camping, fishing, hunting, and spending time outdoors whenever he could. He enjoyed working on cars, playing the guitar, and singing karaoke—often bringing laughter and smiles wherever he went.

Above all else, Gary cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. Time spent with them was time well spent, and his face lit up when they were near. Known as a practical joker, Gary had a playful spirit and a quick wit that kept everyone on their toes and laughing. He was also deeply devoted to his dog, Buster, who was his constant companion.

Gary is survived by his son, Gary (Lindsay) Payne Jr. of Wickliffe; two daughters, Virginia Embrey of Bardwell and Liberty (Logan Whitt) Payne of Arlington; two sisters, Irene (Denny) Lawrence of Grand Rivers, and Evelyn (Rob Hibbitt) Arnold of Livingston, TX; 11 grandchildren, Jasmine Payne, Hailey Embrey, Stormi Whitt, Skylynn Whitt, Camden Whitt, Alyssa Payne, Anna Payne, Austin Payne, Iveigh Payne, Ava Ratta, and Alexa Crowley; four great-grandchildren, Waylon Bobo, Winston Bobo, Wrenlee Bobo, and Saige Lamar; and his dog, Buster.

He is preceded in death by four sisters, Charline Matheney, Lovie Hacker, Stella Payne, and Margaret Jones; one brother, Marvin Payne; and his parents.

Services will be held at a later date. Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe are in charge of arrangements.

Please consider making a donation to the family of Gary Payne Sr.. Have peace of mind knowing that your funeral donations will be helpful to the loved ones of the deceased. You can also help us reach the goal amount by sharing this Tribute Fund and getting others involved!

01/23/2026

Rexanna Bondurant Ashcraft, of La Center, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Baptist Health in Paducah. She was born on August 25, 1948, in Paducah, to her parents, Gordon and Mary Apperson Bondurant.

Rexanna retired after 29 years of service working for the state of Kentucky. She was a dedicated member of the Slater Homemakers Club for over 50 years, serving as their president the last several years. She also served several terms as secretary of the Ballard County Extension Homemakers Association, working alongside other members to give back to the community.

She was a beautiful soul, full of energy and life. She loved her family, her church, and took care of those in need as well as visiting residents in the Nursing Home. Rexanna was an amazing cook, loved mowing, gardening, and her flowers. She loved her special companion, Baby J, as well as her many feline friends.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Terry J. Ashcraft of La Center; her daughter, Victoria Barefield (Terry) of Rockwood, TN; a sister, Irene Cornwell (Wayne) of Blairsville, GA; two brothers, Roy Bondurant (Charlene) of La Center and Robert Bondurant (Sharon) of North Port, FL; two grandchildren, Ashley Spindler (Mike) of Paducah and Chance Barefield of Chattanooga, TN; four great grandchildren, Brianna Barefield of Benton, Noah Reed, Christopher Reed, and Sophie Spindler all of Paducah; and a great grandchild, Robyn Barefield of Benton.

Rexanna was preceded in death by her parents.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family requests memorial contributions be sent to the church that she loved, Pleasant Hill Methodist Church, c/o Sally Boulton, P.O. Box 116, La Center, KY.

01/20/2026

Tawnya Nightinggale Scott, of La Center, passed away at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, TN on Friday, January 16, 2026. She was born July 22, 1999, in Clinton, Indiana to her parents, Roger Nightingale and Karen (Bennett) Rice.

Tawnya graduated from Ballard Memorial High School in 2017. She Tawnya was assistant manager at Oasis Spirits in La Center. She had also worked at the Dollar General Store in La Center for several years.

Tawnya loved going to the bottoms, Mexican food, reading, fishing, and playing Fortnite with her friends. Her dogs, Milo and Baylee, were like her children. She was a very loyal friend and loved to help people. Most of all, she loved and enjoyed being with her family.

She is survived by her husband, Karson Scott of La Center; her mother, Karen Rice of La Center; her father, Roger Nightingale of Indiana; three sisters, Vicky Carlson (Josh) of Rosedale, IN, Brittnee Colard (Thomas) of Madisonville, KY, and Kaety Rice of Madisonville, KY; eight nieces, River Nightingale, Samantha Colard, Alexis Colard, Erin Silotto, Gracey Carlson, Piper Colard, Astrid Colard, Lily Bowman; four nephews, Buddy Silotto, Quentin Silotto, Buster Nightingale, and Loki Bowman; many great nieces and nephews; and her best friend, Miah Curtis Matlock, and her two children, Johnny and Scarlett.

Tawnya was preceded in death by a brother, Scott Nightingale.

Memorial Visitation will be held at a later date at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center.

01/20/2026

Warren Sylvester Durrell, of Wickliffe, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah, KY. He was born on December 24, 1950, in Cairo, IL, to Harvey G. Roberson and Dorothy Jean Brown.

Warren was a volunteer for Wickliffe Fire Department for 17 years. He was a member of Mount Zion Baptist Church and the caretaker for Mount Zion Cemetery in Wickliffe. He started Service Master in 1970.

Everybody loved Warren; he was a friendly guy and enjoyed helping people. He loved and cherished his family.

Warren is survived by his father, Harvey G. Roberson of El Paso, TX; a daughter, LaToya Durell Campbell and her husband, Joshua Campbell Sr., of Paducah; stepmother, Mary E. Roberson, of Texas; six brothers, Jacque Jones (Buffy) of Wickliffe, Leo Henderson of Dallas, Charles Henderson (Linda) of Paducah, Fedegarik Henderson of Paducah, Ronald Roberson of La Center, Frankie Roberson of EL Paso, TX; seven sisters, Suzanne Smith of La Center, Julia Berry (Robert) of Wickliffe, Brenda Brown, Deborah Peterson (Roger), Erica Simmons (Deric), Renee Roberson; sister in law, Barbara Jones of La Center; and six grandchildren, Michael Davis, Justice Campbell, Joshua Campbell Jr., Merle Campbell, Messiya Campbell, and Laia Campbell.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Brown Henderson; his father, Harvey G. Roberson; his stepfather, Charles Henderson; and five brothers, James Henderson, David Jones, Victor Jones, and Shaunza Henderson.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, after 11:00 a.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center until time of memorial service at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Guy Johnson officiating.

Interment will follow at Mount Zion Cemetery in Wickliffe.

01/17/2026

Gary “Red” Underwood, of Wickliffe, Kentucky, passed away at his home on January 15, 2026. He was born on May 9, 1952, to Cecil “Chunk” and Mildred Irene Rice Underwood.

Red was a hardworking, dedicated person who spent over 15 years with Webb’s Pest Control in Kevil. He had multiple hobbies and interests that he devoted much of his free time to. He was a member of Faith Missionary Baptist Church and a member of the BMHS Class of 1970.

Red was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and finding old driftwood to restore and turn into artwork for friends and family. He was a gifted musician and could often be found strumming his guitar and playing his favorite songs. Red loved to relax at home and watch the University of Kentucky basketball team whenever they were on television. He will be remembered as being the most loving and devoted brother and uncle to his family.

Red is survived by his brother, Dale “Frog” (Debbie) Underwood of Wickliffe, and five nieces and three nephews that he loved as his own.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Underwood, and his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe with Bro. Billy Prince officiating. Burial will follow at Wickliffe City Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 1001 Craig Rd. #480, St. Louis MO 63146.

01/16/2026

Patricia “Pat” Shelby Knowles, of Kevil, passed away Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Mills Nursing & Rehab. She was born on October 6, 1948, in Paducah, to J.W. Shelby and Lennie Davis Shelby.

Pat’s faith guided her daily and served as a cornerstone to her life. As a dedicated member of her church, she served joyfully in the nursery, church library, and Vacation Bible School. Her acts of service were quiet but powerful expressions of her devotion and kindness.

A talented, skilled seamstress, Pat passionately treated sewing as an art. Through every stitch, she shared her creativity, patience, and love. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, a hobby that reflected her sharp mind and love of learning. Passions she shared with her children as a legacy.

Pat embraced life with curiosity and enthusiasm. She loved to travel with friends and search for hidden treasures in thrift shops and yard sales. She cherished stories and learning, often listening to audiobooks while sewing, helping others, and watching her grandson. As a loving mother, she was the steady center of her family, ensuring her sons had every opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed. Her involvement in 4-H and school-related clubs helped build strong foundations for many young people in her community.

Her generosity extended far beyond her immediate family. Patricia opened her home and heart to many children as a foster parent for over 30 years, offering stability, encouragement, and unconditional love; an impact that echoed her caring for others.

One of her greatest joys was watching her grandsons play soccer at McCracken County High School. Her bright smile and enthusiastic cheers were a constant source of support and pride.

Pat is survived by two sons, Dan Knowles (Laura) of Paducah and James Knowles of Bowling Green; and three grandsons, Alex Knowles, Jack Knowles (Madison), and Jamison Knowles.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Barbara Campbell and Faye Dalton.

Visitation will be held at Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until time of memorial service at 3:00 p.m. with the Rev. Drew Gray officiating.

01/13/2026

Kevin Warren Slayden, of Arlington, Kentucky, passed away on January 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Kevin was born on March 5, 1963, to Warren Slayden and Helen Hocker.

Kevin was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church and retired after 24 years of dedicated service at the Carbon Plant. He was known for his quick wit and playful, mischievous nature. He loved to make people laugh and had a special talent for aggravating and picking at those he cared about most—always in good fun. His humor and lighthearted spirit made him a joy to be around and a friend like no other. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—hunting, fishing, farming, gardening, and traveling to Florida with his step-dad for fishing trips he cherished. He especially loved spending time with his family, with his greatest pride and joy being his grandson, Jaxon. Whether he was with family, hanging out with his buddies, or sharing a laugh, Kevin made every moment count, and he was truly the best friend anyone could ask for.

Above all, Kevin was a deeply loving husband and father. He adored his wife, Sandy, and would gladly do anything she asked, always putting her happiness first. His love for his family ran deep, and his heart was big enough to take in any child, treating them as his own without hesitation.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt and special thank you to JR and Lisa Pruitt and Michael and Geneva Tucker for their unwavering help, love, and support during Kevin’s time of need. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Kevin is survived by his wife of 28 years, Sandy Slayden; his mother and step-father, Helen and Phillip Hocker of Arlington; his father, Warren Slayden, of Arlington; two daughters, Jessica (Travis) Bogue of Fulton, and Casey (Dominic Thomas) Slayden of Arlington; one grandson, Jaxon Porter; and his “honorary children”, Michael Ellegood, Lacey Comer, Hunter Comer, Ashely Smith, Josh Bennett, Becky Bennett, Blake Bennett, Kaleigh Bennett, and Kloe Phillips.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Debra Denton.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 pm, Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Arlington, with Bro. Mark Lambert officiating. Burial will follow at Springhill Cemetery in Clinton, Kentucky.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the service time of 12:00 pm on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Arlington.

Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society

02/05/2026

02/03/2026

02/02/2026

01/28/2026

01/28/2026

01/27/2026

01/23/2026

01/20/2026

01/20/2026

01/17/2026

01/16/2026

01/13/2026

Address

Opening Hours

Website

Alerts

Contact The Practice

Shortcuts

Share