Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home

04/27/2026

04/24/2026

When giving sympathy flowers to a grieving family, how do you know which flowers to choose? Learn about 7 of the most popular sympathy flowers and the meanings behind them by reading the article below.

When picking sympathy flowers to give to a grieving family, what message are you sending? Learn about the meaning behind sympathy flowers!

04/24/2026

Willard Rucker

Willard Rucker, age 91, of Gray, Kentucky, went home to be with Jesus on Friday, April 24, 2026. Born in Gray, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Jake and Lizzie Rawlings Rucker. Willard lived a vibrant life full of laughter, love, and dedication. Willard was a funny and spirited soul. His dedication was not only seen in his career as a welder and boilermaker with the Iron Workers Union, Local 105, but also in his unwavering commitment to...

View Willard Rucker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/24/2026

Does your family know what to do after your death?

If they don’t, then planning your funeral is likely to be more emotionally and financially draining than you might think. But you can ensure their success by creating an easy-to-understand roadmap to your wishes.

Simply sit down with us, review your options, and write down your wishes. You will make a difficult day so much easier for your grieving family.

Call us at 606-528-3131 to schedule a time to chat.

04/23/2026

Doris Jean Back

Doris Jean Back of Casselberry, Florida, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the age of 76. She was born on April 4, 1949, in Corbin, Kentucky, where she grew up as the youngest daughter of Allen and Ora Wilson McCreary. She graduated from Lynn Camp High School and attended Eastern Kentucky University. Doris was an Administrative Assistant for Social Services in London, Kentucky, and was a devoted and passionate Kentucky wildcat fan, cheering Big Blue with unwavering loyalty....

View Doris Jean Back's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/19/2026

Troy V. Engle, Jr.

Troy V. Engle Jr., age 74, of Corbin, KY, passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at his home. Born in Gray, KY, he was the son of the late Troy V. Engle Sr. and Evelyn Helton Engle. Troy worked as a truck driver for many years and was known for his strong work ethic and dedication. Above all, he loved his family deeply and treasured the time spent with them. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in...

View Troy V. Engle, Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/17/2026

Kathy Ann Burke

Kathy Ann Burke, age 62, of Corbin, KY, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at her home. Born in Corbin, KY, she was the daughter of the late Cleland and Janice Jackson Rogers. Kathy was devoted to her family and found her greatest purpose in caring for those she loved. She was the heart of her family, and her kindness, laughter, and unwavering love left a lasting impression on all who knew her. In earlier years, she enjoyed horseback...

View Kathy Ann Burke's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/17/2026

Planning a funeral when you're grieving a loss can be stressful. That's why planning ahead for funeral wishes is a gift of love for your family - you lift the burden of funeral planning from their shoulders. Check out this article to learn more about helping your family by planning ahead!

Thinking about your funeral can be intimidating, but if you plan ahead for your wishes, you can make a difficult time easier for your family.

04/16/2026

Meet our team:

After the loss of a loved one, having caring, compassionate, and experienced guidance can make all the difference. We’re honored to have James David Thomas on our team serving families during these important moments.

James is a graduate of Corbin High School and became a licensed funeral director in 1985. He joined our team in 2012, bringing over 40 years of experience serving families in our community. His knowledge and steady presence help provide clarity and reassurance throughout the funeral planning process.

He and his wife, Carla, have been married since 1984. Jim is the church organist at Corbin Trinity Methodist Church and an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Corbin. He also serves on the cemetery committee that oversees Pine Hill Cemetery.

04/15/2026

Charles Ellis Mayton

Charles Ellis Mayton, age 83, of Corbin, KY, passed away on April 13, 2026, at his home. Born in Rockwood, TN, he was the son of the late Harry Mayton and Verna Poole Mayton. Charles, was a man of quiet strength and a dry sense of humor. He was known for his courageous spirit and dedicated service to his country. His life was a testament to his Southern Baptist faith and to the verse from Joshua 1:9: "Have I not...

View Charles Ellis Mayton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.