The Estill County Tribune

01/16/2025

Mary Edna Vaughn, 70, passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at the Stanton Nursing Center, Stanton. She was born July 30, 1954 in Mount Clemmons, Michigan to the late William Townsend and the late Martha Ireland Parker. Survivors include, sons, Timothy Vaughn and Christopher West; daughter, Tammy Townsend; sister, Beverly Washburn; brothers, Clarence Townsend, George Townsend, Fred Townsend, Frank Townsend, and William Townsend; 8 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Tina West.

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01/16/2025

Ruth Janice Logan, widow of Elvin Logan, 340 First Street, Clay City, passed away Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at her home. She was born September 1, 1933 in Clay City to the late Harry Ray and Anna Belle Bount Melroy. Survivors inlude, son, David (Connie) Catron; daughter, Delora (Mike) Kennon; grandchildren, Michelle Wills, Latisha Beach, Shane Catron, Michael Shane Kennon, Brandon Banks, and Kayla Banks; 13 great grandchildren; and 13 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Ray Catron; and grandsons, Elvin Ray Catron and Donnie Catron. Services Saturday, January 18, 1:00PM by Bro. John Combs. Visitation Saturday 12-1pm at the funeral home. Burial in Kennon Cemetery with Shane Catron, Michael Shane Kennon, Jacob Sewell, Logan Sewell, David Beach, Delora Kennon, and Mike Kennon serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers serving, Betty Strange, Virginia Pitts, nieces, nephews, and all her grandchildren.

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01/15/2025

Kevin Joey Spencer of Wi******er, Kentucky, formerly of Campton, Kentucky, departed this life Monday, January 13, 2025 at the age of 50 years, 9 months and 9 days. He was a son of the late Edwin Spencer and Fern Hollon Spencer born in Campton, Kentucky, on April 4, 1974. He was a Shipping Clerk Coordinator for Advanced Green Components. He is survived by his two daughters, Rhiannon Rose (Tyler) and Willow Spencer both of Lexington, Kentucky; his step-mother, Barbara Nickell Spencer of Campton, Kentucky; two brothers, Edwin Ray Spencer of Lexington, Kentucky, and Michael Lynn Spencer (Judy) of Campton, Kentucky; and one sister, Crystal Shawn Spencer Mitchell (Bobby) of Irvine, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin Spencer and Fern Hollon Spencer; and one sister, Amanda Dawn Spencer. He also leaves behind a host of other relatives and friends to mourn his passing. Serving as pallbearers; Eddie Spencer, Bobby Mitchell, Nate Miller, Tyler Rose, Donnie Holder, Matt Holder, Thomas Holder and Randall Hendrix.

Visitation: Friday, January 17, 2025 beginning at 11:00 A.M. at Porter & Son Funeral Directors, Campton, Kentucky.

Funeral Services: Friday, January 17, 2025 beginning at 1:00 P.M. at Porter & Son Funeral Director's Chapel with Rev. David Neace officiating.

Burial: Spencer Cemetery, Quillens Chapel, Kentucky.

Kevin Joey Spencer of Wi******er, Kentucky, formerly of Campton, Kentucky, departed this life Monday, January 13, 2025 at the age of 50 years, 9 months and 9 days. He was a son of the late Edwin Spencer and Fern Hollon Spencer born in Campton, Kentucky, on April 4, 1974. He

01/15/2025

Betty Grayson 81 of Mt. Sterling passed away Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at her residence with family by her side. She was born December 5, 1943 in Mt. Sterling to Clarance and Ruth Willoughby. She was a member of the Gateway Christian Church. She worked for H & R Block for 56 years she owned several Block franchises over those years. She was also a cofounder of Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City and she was a huge Kentucky Basketball fan. She is survived by a son Tim Grayson and his wife Aimee of Irvine. Six grandchildren Alena Brooke Jones (Philip), Destinee Davis (Chad), Jordan Grayson, Landon Grayson (Sierra). Elizabeth Bradshaw (Gabe) David Moore. Eleven great grandchildren Mattie, Ean, Jase, Layden, Jayden, Peyton, Wyatt, Kaelyn, Kenna, Aden and Bobby. And a sister Shirley Setters (Jimmy). She was preceded in death by her parents Clarance and Ruth Willoughby, a daughter Kim Grayson, and a sister Mable Greene. Funeral services will be held 12 PM Thursday, January 16, 2025 at the Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City with Bro. Bill Kilgore and Bro. Glenn Emery officiating. Friends may visit Thursday from 10 AM till time of the service, Grayson Funeral Home is in charge of services.

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01/15/2025

Peggy Joyce Little Kayse, age 92, of Irvine, Kentucky, departed this life on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Irvine Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Irvine, Kentucky.

Peggy was born on January 9, 1933, in Irvine, Kentucky to the late James Elmer and Jewel Nichols Little. In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by her husband, Joe Bill Kayse, 3 children, William Morris Elliot III, LuAnn Elliot, and Jane Elliott Fike and husband Sammy Fike,1 Brother, James Barkley Little, 1 sister, Nellie Jo Little.

Miss Kayse was a lifelong member of the 1st Christian Church in Irvine, as well as being a lifelong member of the Order of The Eastern Star and various other organizations. She retired from Southeast Coal Company as the Human Resource Director after 30 plus years.

She is survived by 5 grandchildren, Kimberly Elliott Isaacs and Chad, Marty York and Staci, Casey Fike and Kim, Heather Elliott Shown and Benny Shown, and William M. Elliott IV and Audra. 15 great grandchildren, 1 daughter-in-law, Joyce H. Elliott, as well as other relatives and friends to miss her and mourn her passing.

Funeral services for Peggy Joyce Little Kayse will be conducted on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. in the 1st Christian Church in Irvine, Kentucky. Pastor Matt Higle and Elder Steve Garrett will be officiating. Interment will follow in the River View Cemetery in Beattyville, Kentucky. The family will receive friends from 11:00 A.M. till the time of services at 1:00 P.M. at the church.

Pallbearers will be Marty and Kenton York, Casey and Casen Fike, Austin Isaacs, Chase Rawlins, William M. Elliott IV, and Benny Shown.

Honorary pallbearers will be Chad Isaacs.

Lewis Home for Funerals is honored to serve the family of Peggy Joyce Little Kayse.

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01/15/2025

Samuel Gordon Watson, age 82, of Conrad Estates in Irvine, passed away Monday, January 13, 2025, at the Compassionate Care Center in Richmond following a short illness. He was born June 6, 1942, in Estill County and was the son of the late Pearl Watson and Ruth Powell Watson. He was the owner of the Burger Barn in Irvine for 26 years, and he retired from Toyota Manufacturing. He attended the Irvine First Christian Church, and he was a member of the Estill County Golf Club. He had lived in Estill County all his life. He is survived by:

His wife: Donna Crouch Watson

His daughter: Shelly Watson Sparks (Lonnie) - Estill Co.

1 brother: Fred Watson (Ann) - Ohio

2 grandchildren: Alyssa Pearl Sparks (Zach) and Bryson Lonnie Sparks

1 great grandchild: Karter Brooks Richardson

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 1 brother, Paul Watson.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, January 18, 2 PM at the Warren F. Toler Funeral Home with Bro. Joe Altman officiating. Burial will be at the West Irvine Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday from 6 to 9 PM.

Pallbearers: Bryson Sparks, Bruce Watson, Lyle Crouch, Chris East, Gary Marshall, David Sparks, and Paul “Bird” Arvin

Honorary Pallbearers: Larry Honchell, Ralph Howell, Skip East, Larry Crouch, and Mike Tyree

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01/11/2025

Charles Edward Murphy, age 81, passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

Mr. Murphy, the son of the late Leonard and Rose Alma Estes Murphy, was born in Estill County on November 1, 1943. He had worked at Pieratt’s and had attended Red House Baptist Church. He was also a Baptist minister.

Mr. Murphy united in marriage to Genevee Vest “Peachy” Murphy who passed away on February 27, 2004.

Survivors include one sister: Judy Murphy, his niece: Misty Murphy and three great-nephews: Christopher Shanks, Brian Shanks and Jacob Riddell.

In addition to his parents, Charles was also preceded in death by his brother: Billy Ray Murphy.

A Committal Service will be conducted at 11:30 AM Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Blue Grass Memorial Gardens, 4915 Harrodsburg Rd, Nicholasville, Kentucky.

Combs, Parsons & Collins Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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01/11/2025

Grace B. Ruble Hensley Berry, 100, of Waco, passed away on Tuesday morning, January 7, 2025, at her granddaughter’s home.

She was a Madison County native, born September 27, 1924, the daughter of the late Rollie & Maude Rose Ruble. She was a member of the Dreyfus Christian Church, and attended the Church of Christ in Irvine, Kentucky. Grace lived most of her life in Madison County and Dayton Ohio. She was a home maker and worked at the Blue Grass Depot in the early years, and later at Westinghouse.

Survivors include: her grandchildren, Robin Gould (Jeff), and Timothy Casey (Carolyn); her son-in-law, Preacher Bob Casey; 3 great-grandchildren, Adam Gould, Jaleesa Willoughby (Rick), and Candace Gould; 5 great-great-grandchildren, Allisyn Gould, Korbin Kiser, Ryder Gould, Everly Grace Kiser, and Mackenzie Willoughby; as well as nieces, nephews and many other family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Berry was preceded in death by: her husbands, Snorri Hensley, Jr., and Jack C. Berry; her daughter, Linda Casey; one infant grandchild, Tonya Casey; and 15 siblings.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 1:00 PM Friday, January 10, 2025, at the Combs, Parsons & Collins Funeral Home, W. Main St., Richmond. Burial will follow in the Flatwoods Cemetery.

Visitation will be after 11:00 AM Friday, at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Mills, Toni Mills, Jeff Duerson, Matthew Thompson, Adam Gould, Jeff Combs, Rick Willoughby, Ryder Gould and Korbin Kiser.

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01/11/2025

Katherine Ann Lawson, 86, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025 in Clay City. She was born March 7, 1938 to the late Robert and Haley King Ashley. Survivors include, daughters, Molly Pingleton, Ruby Ledford, Donna Wagner, Nancy Branham, Eliza Conner, and Kayla Sons; son, Jerry Luke; grandchildren, 13; and numerous great grandchildren. Services Wednesday, January 15, 2:00PM at the Branham Cemetery.

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01/11/2025

Sherwin Cody Sheffield, age 31, of Frames Branch Road, Clay City, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the Clark Regional Medical Center in Wi******er, Kentucky. He was born in Lexington, Kentucky, on July 11, 1993, to the late John William Sheffield and Anna Abrams Sheffield. Cody proudly graduated from Powell County High School in the Class of 2012, where he earned a reputation as a dedicated and spirited member of the successful Pirates football team. His athletic prowess and teamwork laid a strong foundation for his career, which flourished at the Ale-8 One Bottling Company, where he excelled as a warehouse supervisor, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to excellence. Deeply rooted in his faith, Cody was a devout believer in the God of the Bible and practiced the principles of the Baptist faith, which guided him in life. He was the unwavering rock that held his family together. Cody cherished his mother with profound love and devotion, and as a beloved uncle, he served as an inspiring role model for his nephews, instilling in them the values of kindness and perseverance. A selfless soul, Cody had a remarkable ability to bring joy to those around him, effortlessly lifting spirits with his great sense of humor and vibrant personality. His warm presence left an indelible mark on everyone he met, making the world a brighter, happier place. In addition to his mother, he is survived by one sister, Jessica Sheffield of Campton; one brother: John Leonard Sheffield of Florida; one half-brother: Terry Charlton of Clay City; and two nephews: Conner Davidson and Braydon Barnes. Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky. Funeral services officiated by Bro. Fred White and Bro. Brad Epperson will be held at the funeral home at 1:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 16, 2024. Burial will be held at Stonegate Cemetery in Stanton with E.J. Goodwin, Anthony Sheffield, Tommy Booth, Chad Townsend, Ryan Ison, Brett Henry, Terry Charlton, and Ben Adams serving as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are his Ale 8 One Bottling Company work family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home of Stanton.

Sherwin Cody Sheffield, age 31, of Frames Branch Road, Clay City, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the Clark Regional Medical Center in Wi******er, Kentucky. He was born in Lexington, Kentucky, on July 11, 1993, to the late John William Sheffield and Anna Abrams Sheffield. Cody proudly....

01/11/2025

Kenneth D. Fugate, age 64, of Clay City, Kentucky, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at University of Kentucky Saint Claire Hospital in Morehead, Kentucky. He was born March 12, 1960, in Hazard, Kentucky to the late Bert Fugate and Fannie Combs Ritchie. Ken had an incredible love for music, embracing everything from Christian and Gospel to Rock and Bluegrass. His connection to music was tangible as he skillfully played both electric and acoustic guitars, which brought him immense happiness. His deep affection for his wife, children, and grandchildren was evident in the quality time he cherished with them, creating memories that will be treasured forever. One of his prized possessions was his classic 1966 Chevelle, a car that he often spent hours working on and enjoyed taking it for drives. Ken also enjoyed the sense of freedom when riding his motorcycle. Those who knew him would describe him as one of the most selfless people, always ready to lend a hand or share a laugh. His remarkable sense of humor brought light to everyone around him, and it was clear that Ken approached life with unwavering happiness and a nurturing spirit. His presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by his dear friend, J.D. McClure. In addition to his mother, Ken is survived by his wife, Teresa Spencer Fugate of Clay City; a daughter, Crystal (Daniel) Roberson of Owingsville; a son, Johnny Cook of Stanton; a daughter, Misty Rose of Alabama; three sisters: Florence (Melvin) King of Clay City, Charlene (Linville) Spencer and Shirley (T.K.) Miller both of Breathitt County; one brother, Gary Smith of Breathitt County; eight grandchildren: Gabe (Paley) Crabtree, Madison Crabtree, Jacob Roberson, Colby (Ashton) Cook, Colton Cook, Kaylee Rose, Gavin Rose, and Tate Rose; one great-grandchild, Esmerae Rose; and a host of nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held from 3:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Monday, January 13, 2025, at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home immediately following at 7:00 P.M. Honorary pallbearers are Gabe Crabtree, Daniel Roberson, Colby Cook, Colton Cook, Jacob Roberson, Johnny Cook, Seth Grigsby, and Melvin King.

Kenneth D. Fugate, age 64, of Clay City, Kentucky, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at University of Kentucky Saint Claire Hospital in Morehead, Kentucky. He was born March 12, 1960, in Hazard, Kentucky to the late Bert Fugate and Fannie Combs Ritchie. Ken had

01/11/2025

Daniel Lenuly Abney, age 71, of Blackburn Road in Irvine, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the University of Kentucky Hospital following a short illness. He was born November 28, 1953, in Flint, Michigan and was the son of the late Lenlie Audry Abney and Joyce Dustin Abney. He retired from Trane and was a member of the Millers Creek Church of God. He had lived in Estill County for most of his life. He is survived by:

His wife: Charlene Isaacs Abney

His daughter: Rebecca (Shawn) Rogers

2 sisters: Teresa Nealey

Patrica Ann (Craig) Kershow

4 granddaughters: Morgan Faye (Snowden) Rose, Madison Paige (James) McKinney, Adrianne Brooke Rogers, and Billie Pierce (Taylor) Smith

6 great grandsons and 5 great granddaughters

Daughter-in-Law: Denise Painter

Numerous nieces and nephews

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Fannie Maxine Abney, and his son, Bradley Everett Abney.

Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, January 12, 2 PM at the Warren F. Toler Funeral Home with Bro. Sidney Sparks officiating. Burial will be at the Cobb Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 11 AM to 2 PM.

Pallbearers: James McKinney, Snowden Rose, Jon Fraley, Seth Kershow, Jonah Kershow, James Abney, Brian Covey, Morgan Rose, and Shawn Rogers

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01/08/2025

Ravenna, from Powell

01/07/2025

Congratulations to Will Beckley who placed 1st in the Agriculture Employability Skills contest at the Bluegrass Region Winter FFA Day!

01/06/2025

Martha Lynn (Thomas) King , 77, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025 at Telford Terrace in Richmond, Kentucky. She was the widow of Gail Edward King.

Lynn was born on October 26, 1947 in Irvine, Kentucky, and was the daughter of Gilbert Martin Thomas and Martha Emily (Durbin) Thomas, both of whom preceded her in death. She was a retired schoolteacher, spending most of her career at St. Mark Catholic School in Richmond and was awarded Madison County Teacher of the Year twice.

Survivors include: two sons, Jason Edward King (Kelly DeLuca King) of San Antonio, Texas, and Todd Thomas King (Angel Mullins King) of Richmond, Kentucky; grandchildren, Colleen King, Thomas King, Benjamin King, Aliceson King and Jessica King.

Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday January 9, 2025 at St. Mark Catholic Church in Richmond, KY. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 10, also at St. Mark, with Fr. Tom Farrell officiating. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in her honor to St Mark Catholic School.

Oldham, Roberts & Powell Funeral Home is serving the family.

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12/30/2024

Angel Marie Gordon, 33
The mother of Kyreece Thompson, and the daughter to Teresa and the late Ray Douglas Gordon, passed away from an extended illness on Friday, December 27, 2024 at the University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington KY.

In addition to Angel’s son and mother, she is survived by her siblings,
Felicia (JP)White, Latanya West,
Amanda Gordon, Chasidy Gordon,
Kevina Gordon, Latee (Andrew) Cox
Christopher Gordon, Larry Gordon
Aria Gordon, Tilda Gordon, Deffena (Jeffery )Mosley, Cory Morton, Jurika Wade, and Kevin Reed.

Also left to honor Angel ‘s memories her grandmother, Emma Mitchell, a host of nieces and nephews.

Besides her father, Angel is proceded in death by a sister, Kimberly Gordon.

Visitation
11:00 A.M.

Funeral
1:00 P.M.

Thursday
January 2,2025

Richmond, Predestinarian, Baptist, Church, 209 East Irvine St., Richmond, KY 40475
Elder Raymond Walker Jr., Pastor

Keith P. Clark & Son Funeral Home | Wi******er, KY in Wi******er respectfully announces the passing of Angel Gordon on December 27, 2024.

12/25/2024

12/21/2024

Cora “Edie” Shackelford, age 75, passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Clark Regional Medical Center in Wi******er, Kentucky. She was born in Spider, Kentucky, to the late Paul Bowen and the late Anne Back Bowen. Edie was a devoted homemaker whose nurturing spirit extended beyond her home. In addition to managing her household, she served as a nurse's aide at the Breathitt County Nursing Center, where her compassionate nature shone through in her care for the elderly. Additionally, she worked as a secretary for Red River Hardwoods in Clay City, balancing her professional responsibilities with skill and grace. Edie had a deep passion for crafts, often immersing herself in creative projects that brought joy and color to her life. Her vegetable garden flourished under her attentive care, bursting with fresh produce that she loved to share with family and friends. The flower beds around her home were a testament to her green thumb, vibrant with blooms that reflected her cheerful disposition. When her children were young, Edie eagerly participated in school activities, fostering a sense of community and support. She cherished the memories of clogging at Hoedown Island, where she danced joyfully with her daughter, Angie, creating lasting bonds through rhythm and laughter. Family was the cornerstone of Edie's life. She delighted in spending time with her grandchildren, weaving stories and laughter into every moment they shared. Known for her caring and nurturing personality, Edie was a trusted source of wisdom, always ready to lend a listening ear and offer invaluable advice to her children, grandchildren, and their friends. Her warmth and love resonated deeply, making her a beloved figure in their lives. In addition to her parents, Edie is preceded in death by two brothers, Donald Bowen and Alger Bowen; and two sisters, Josephine Stamper and Pauline Dixon. She is survived by her husband, John C. Shackelford, Sr. of Stanton; one son, John C. (Sara) Shackelford, Jr. of Mt. Sterling; one daughter, Angie (David) VanBebber of Wi******er; and four grandchildren: Wyatt (Alli) Clark, Kennedy Grace Shackelford, Cash VanBebber, and Ty VanBebber. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Monday, December 23, 2024, at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky. Funeral services, officiated by Brother Ron Ingram, will be held at the funeral home at 1:00 P.M. immediately following visitation. Burial will be at Shackelford Family Cemetery in Vancleve, Kentucky, with David VanBebber, Wyatt Clark, Clint Johnson, Jody Bowen, Tyler Swetnam, and Tanner Swetnam serving as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Kennedy Grace Shackelford, Cash VanBebber, and Ty VanBebber. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home of Stanton.

Cora Edie Shackelford, age 75, passed away on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Clark Regional Medical Center in Wi******er, Kentucky. She was born in Spider, Kentucky, to the late Paul Bowen and the late Anne Back Bowen. Edie was a devoted homemaker whose nurturing spirit extended beyond her home. In