Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home, 208 W Water Street, Hodgenville, KY (2025)

09/25/2025

Larry Dean “PeeWee” Wyatt, age 76, of Hodgenville, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at his residence.

PeeWee was an Army Vietnam Veteran, having served his country as a 173rd Airborne Combat Brigade paratrooper and sharp shooter. He received the Bronze Star for his acts of wartime heroism, an honor bestowed yet rarely spoken of. After returning from war, he joined the Civil Service by way of the United States Post Office. He started as a Flex worker in Hodgenville followed by 19 years as a supervisor in Elizabethtown before stepping into the roll of Postmaster of Cecilia for an additional 16 years. He retired after 35 years with the post office.

Less than a year into retirement, he became a home builder alongside his brother Mike and over the next decade built numerous homes in Hardin and LaRue counties. He also traveled from coast-to-coast delivering bucket trucks for Altec.

Larry was a member of the American Legion for over 50 years, a Kentucky Colonel and a Hardin County Fair judge presiding over baby contests for 35 years.

A man of many talents, he was most noted as an exceptional golfer. PeeWee was a dedicated, 40 plus year member of the Elizabethtown Country Club, which is where you would find him and his buddies daily (unless it was 45 degrees or colder, his threshold for cold weather).

PeeWee was preceded in death by his parents: William Watson “Bill”, and Geneva Jane “Judy” Childress Wyatt; a brother, Steve Wyatt; a sister, Judy Ann Mather and a grandson, Carter Maddox Massey.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Terri Wyatt; three children: Matt Wyatt of Ohio, Don (Amy) Massey of Indiana and Jennifer (Trent) Emory of Glendale; a brother, Mike (Robin) Wyatt of Hodgenville; eleven grandchildren he adored, Christian, Andrew, Kinley, Cameron, Mason, Lennon, Johnnie Tyler, Reagan, Riley, Payton and Jackson as well as a great-grandchild, Blakely Lane. His 11 grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, September 29, at Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville. Burial with full military honors will follow in Elizabethtown Memorial Gardens, the family welcomes everyone.

Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday and after 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home.

There will be a live feed of the final day of the Ryder Cup throughout Sunday's visitation (as Larry would have wanted). Visitors are invited to share stories during commercial breaks.

09/23/2025

Marilyn Elizabeth Brock Greer, age 86, of Magnolia, went to be with the Lord on September 22, 2025, at Kensington Center in Elizabethtown.

Marilyn was a cosmetologist and owner of Marilyn’s Classic Curl. Her clients became dear friends. She also owned Magnolia Florist and had the gift of flower arranging and loved flowers. She enjoyed spending time with her husband on the farm that they loved. Marilyn was saved on May 20, 2012, was baptized on August 19, 2012, by Bro. Handley Milby and was a member of Union Chapel Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Kenneth Wayne Greer; her parents, Billie Ray Brock and Marian Laverne Campbell; a granddaughter, Kaylyn Wane Howell and a brother, Terry Ray Brock.

Marilyn is survived by two daughters, Neicha (Wendell) Pottinger and Leicha (David) Howell, all of Magnolia; her grandchildren, Ashlee (Tim) Lewis, Courtney (Zach) Hoppes, Kameron (Mason) McDowell and Preston (Calea) Howell; her great-grandchildren, Mason Lewis, Quinn Lewis, Griffin Hoppes, Ramzi Hassouneh, Oakleigh Wells, Ruby McDowell, Grady McDowell and Addison Howell; her sister, Sherrie Gallegos of Florida; her sister-in-law, Patricia (Bob) Hoffie and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, September 27, at Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville with Bro. Wes Guffey officiating. Burial will follow in Magnolia Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday and after 9 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Marilyns pallbearers will be Mason McDowell, Preston Howell, Donald Pruitt, Billy Murphy, Jason Keel and Tom Downey.

09/19/2025

Joshua Travis Braden, age 37 years, 11 months and 22 days, departed his earthly body on Friday, September 12, 2025, at approximately 3:15 pm in Sydney, Ohio due to a motorcycle accident.

Joshua was born on September 20, 1987, and was always a person of love, laughter, family and music. He was a hard worker in many trades and upon departing this earth, he was operating his own lawn service. He has always been a young man of help to anyone in need. Joshua was one who could make you laugh, cry and sometimes angry, but at the end of the day it was always “I love you.” He was a joy to his mom and dad and a lifeline to his grandmother and to his Uncle DD. He was a nephew, son, coworker and best friend forever. He is loved by thousands and he always returned that love. The life he lived and the way he was raised was an example of the life, love and devotion that he gave to Satan’s Sidekicks MC Nation and all who were his brothers and sisters.

Joshua leaves behind his 4 year old son, William Travis Braden; his mother Carolyn Cryer; his father Billy Braden; his grandmother, Daisy Hart Mahoney; special uncle, Daren Hart; his uncle, Dennis Lackey; his girlfriend and expectant mother, Tara Shaw. He also leaves behind two stepchildren, Jaxon and Allura and many aunts, uncles, cousins and a host of biker brothers and sisters.

The family will have a memorial service at 3 p.m. Saturday, September 27, at the gymnasium of The Old School Market, 9050 New Jackson Highway, Magnolia with a tribute ride to follow.

Visitation for family, friends and community will be from 1 to 6 p.m. Friday, with after-hours visitation following and again after 12 noon on Saturday.

There will also be an after service gathering at the gymnasium following the tribute ride.

09/12/2025

Jessie Elizabeth Hayes, age 80, of Louisville, passed away Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Hosparus Inpatient Care Center in Louisville.

She was preceded in death by a son, Dwayne Hicks; her parents, Charles Melvin and Luetta Curry Strange; a brother, Tommy Strange and sister-in-law, Sherry Strange.

Jessie is survived by a daughter, Kim Stacey of Louisville; five grandchildren; nine great grandchild; one great-great grandchild; a sister, Brenda (William) Iglehart of Hodgenville; a brother, Rodney (Kim) Strange of Buffalo as well as several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Jessie was cremated. No services are scheduled at this time.

Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

09/11/2025

William Stephen Dean, 79, of Hodgenville, passed away after a long illness at his home on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.

A native of Owensboro, William, was raised in Lewisport, He graduated from Hancock County High School in 1964 and from Centre College in 1968. After serving three years in the U.S. Army, he returned to the University of Kentucky, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Physics and later completed his Law Degree. He went on to work as an attorney for the Kentucky Transportation Department for over 30 years.

William was preceded in death by his parents, Luther Dean and Ann Wheeler Dean.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann Dean; a brother, George Dean; two children, Tony (Laura) Hatmaker of Phenix City, AL, and Lisa (Jeffrey) Hansen of Bowling Green, his legacy continues through his four grandchildren, Brittney (Jonathan) Zoucha, Abraham Hatmaker, Tyler Hatmaker and Luke Hatmaker and a great-granddaughter, Lilly Zoucha.

The family extends special thanks to his caregivers over the years for their kindness and dedication in making his life better.

The funeral is at 2 p.m. Sunday, September 14 at Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville with Bro. Scott Sandidge officiating. Burial follows in Red Hill Cemetery.

Visitation is from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday and continues from 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday at the funeral.

09/06/2025

Sandra Reistle Miller went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the age of 79. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who had a generous heart and steadfast commitment to those she loved.

Sandra is survived by her husband Robert Miller; her children, Robert (Sarah) Miller Jr. and Vicky Miller (Ryan) Stewart. Her heart overflowed with pride and affection for her grandchildren, Andre Miller, Autumn Miller Nichols, Tony Miller, Kaden Miller and Macy Miller. She was great-grandmother to 9 great-grandchildren each who brought her immense joy.

She will be deeply missed, but her spirit and devotion to family will remain with us always.

The family extends an invitation for everyone to attend a memorial service at 2 p.m., Saturday September 13, at Valley Creek Baptist Church.

Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville is assisting the family.

08/23/2025

William Joseph “Billy Joe” Embry, age 68, of Buffalo, passed away Wednesday August 20, 2025, at his residence.

An Army veteran, he took pride in his work as a carpenter and as a very social person enjoyed spending time with friends and family, pitching horse shoes and floating the river.

Billy Joe was preceded in death by his mother, Joann Skaggs DeSpain; his father, Talmage Embry and two sisters, Susie Embry and Linda Skaggs.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret Embry of Campbellsville; three daughters, Brandy (Blake) Robertson of Greensburg, Tessie (Mike) Hepworth of Buffalo and Josie Embry of Campbellsville; four sisters, Debra Johnson, Lisa (Lee) Ashley, Kathy (Dave) Dulak and Chrissy DeSpain; a brother, Darrell (Karen) Embry; two grandchildren, Mason Robertson and Kane Robertson and his father, Orval Odell DeSpain.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, August 28, at Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville with Bro. Neal Price officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant Ridge Separate Baptist Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and after 9 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

08/19/2025

Diane Warren, age 79, of Magnolia, passed away Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Baptist Health Hardin in Elizabethtown.

She was a member of Gods House Church in Mount Sherman and retired from Nationwide Uniform and then worked for the LaRue County Postal Service until she became unable.

Diane was preceded in death by her son, Greg Clan; her parents, J.T. and Mrytle Gray Turner and two sisters, Susie White and Brenda Bird Bales.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Bro. Dale Warren; a son, Ricky Clan; a stepdaughter, Lisa (Andrew) Lewandowski; two grandchildren, Cody Clan and Amber Garrett; three step grandchildren, Ava, Riley and Ashton and a brother, Jerry Wayne (Peggy) Turner.

Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, August 21, at Gods House Church in Mount Sherman with her husband, Bro. Dale Warren officiating. Burial will follow in Old Sherman Cemetery.

There will be no visitation prior to the service.

08/13/2025

James Lennis Raymer, 53, of Upton KY, passed away peacefully, on August 12, 2025. Born on April 10, 1972, James lived a life marked by generosity, kindness, and an unwavering willingness to help others. He truly had a heart of gold, touching the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

James will be remembered for his warmth, laughter and his gift for making people feel valued and seen. His steady presence was a source of comfort and love for his family, friends and community.

James loved fishing with his boys, grilling out, and sharing his exceptional cooking. He had a deep love for the outdoors and a special talent for transforming what others might see as junk into beautiful works of art. He crafted handmade knives and hatchets with care and skill, and he enjoyed playing the guitar alongside his cousin Michael Dale.

He was preceded in death by his beloved bride-Valerie Raymer and grandparents, Stoy and Leona Raymer and numerous other family members.

He is survived by his parents, Michael and Lawanda Blair of Sandy Ridge, NC; sister, Kimberly Finch and husband Cody of Sandy Ridge, NC; brother, Levi Hardin and wife Kim of Stoneville, NC; sons, Casey (Kristin) Raymer of Frankfort, KY, Cody Raymer of Greensboro, NC and Nevan Owens of Mt. Airy, NC; niece, Megan Finch; nephew, Christopher Hardin and special cousins, Bill and Nichole Thomas. He had numerous aunts and uncles. Dear family members Mary Jo and family, Janet Milby and family and the family of Delbert Raymer.

James leaves behind a legacy of compassion, creativity and love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life in James’ honor at 3 p.m. Saturday, August 16, at Thomas Farms, 717 Old Dixie Loop, Upton, KY, officiated by Delbert Raymer. Friends and family are welcome!

Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville is assisting the family with the arrangements.

08/13/2025

Carl Howell Jr. age 83, of Hodgenville, KY passed away, Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the University of Louisville Hospital.

He grew up in Hodgenville and was in the first graduating class of LaRue County High School in 1959. He was a gifted athlete and an avid sports fan, especially of the UK Wildcats. He played baseball in high school, and at Campbellsville College, which he often described as the best years of his life. Later, he enjoyed playing softball with traveling teams and church leagues, and coaching his daughters’ softball teams.

After graduating from Georgetown College, he followed in the footsteps of his father, Carl Howell, Sr. and his uncle, James Richard Howell, and attended the University of Kentucky College of Law. Following law school, he served as an FBI agent in Buffalo, NY and in New York City, NY for several years before returning to Hodgenville to join his father to practice law. He held immense love and respect for his father and cherished the time they worked together. He continued practicing law as a solo practitioner after his father’s death, earning admiration, trust and respect throughout the community.

Beyond his career, he was well-known as a Kentucky and Abraham Lincoln historian, and a premiere collector of Kentucky and Lincoln postcards from the early-1900s. He authored multiple books inspired and illustrated by postcards from his collection. He also loved classic country music, especially George Jones and the Statler Brothers.

Those who knew him were often treated to funny stories, jokes, clever one-liners and, to those closest to him, a challenging spelling word. One of his favorite activities was spending time at his waterfall property, where he hosted countless gatherings with friends and family and where he married his cherished wife, Sharon, in 2004. He was incredibly proud of his five daughters, and was a never-ending source of love and support to them.
Carl was a Christian and a member of Buffalo Baptist Church where he and Sharon attended as long as they were able to do so.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Dorothy Howell and a grandson, Cross Justice Goodwin.

Carl is survived by a large family who loves him greatly and will seek to honor his memory. His surviving family includes his wife, Sharon Howell; five daughters, Kristi Grant, Dana (Brian) Collins and Cara Howell, all of Hodgenville, Brittany (Paul) Griggs of Cincinnati and Ashley (Brian) Voils of Bardstown; a step-son, Marty (Teresa) Lee of Hodgenville; a sister, Pam Howell of Hodgenville; eight grandchildren, Blake Morris, Briar Holt, Cole (Carrie) Holt, Mason Grant, Allison Whelan, Bree Goodwin, Ainsley Grant and Lauren Whelan; six step-grandchildren, Zack (Rachel) Lee, Maddie (Andrew) McPherson, Jesse Collins, Ava Jorgens, Avery Voils and Leo Voils and a great-grandson, Carson Holt.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 16, at Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home, with Robin Milby and Marty Lee officiating. Burial will follow in Red Hill Cemetery.

Visitation will be 2 to 8 p.m. Friday, and 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

08/13/2025

Zenta Withington, age 79, of Magnolia, passed away Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Hosparus Inpatient Care Center in Louisville.

She was a homemaker, retired head custodian for Northwood Elementary School in Napa, CA and along with her husband was a Civil War reenactor.

Zenta was preceded in death by her parents and a sister.

She is survived by her husband of 36 years, Paul Withington of Magnolia and her friends at B. R. Young Lodge #132 F&AM of Hodgenville.

Zenta was cremated and there will be no public services.

Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville is assisting with the arrangements.

08/10/2025

Martha Jane Thompson Stilts, 78, of Hodgenville, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Signature Healthcare of Sunrise Manor.

She was born on October 17, 1946, to the late Granville and Catherine Price Thompson.

Martha was a graduate of LaRue County High School in 1965. She later was employed at E-Town Sportswear (sewing factory). While living in Elizabethtown, she met her husband, Norman, and they were married in 1973. She then became a full-time homemaker, wife and mother. She had professed her faith in Christ Jesus. She looked forward to being with her parents and other loved ones who passed before her.

She was a dedicated fan of basketball and baseball. She cheered for the University of Louisville Men’s Basketball team, the Golden State Warriors and the New York Yankees. She also enjoyed going to yard sales and having yard sales. Martha loved playing Rook with her family. She was always trying to “shoot the moon” to win the card game. Later in life she found new hobbies. She loved reading, coloring books, latch hook kits and making puzzles for Norman to frame and gift to people. Of all the hobbies, she mostly wanted to spend time with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers-in-laws, Leo Stilts, James Smith and Danny Calhoun.

Martha is survived by her husband of 52 years, Norman Stilts; two daughters, Tammy (Arthur) Hawkins and Lorrie Goodman; her grandchildren, Austin (McKayla) Hawkins, Aiden Hawkins, Hailey Wood, Andrew Goodman, Alex Goodman; great-grandchildren, Peyton, Carter and Owen Hawkins; a brother, Leonard (Kathy) Thompson; sister-in-law and brother-in-law; Lena Stilts, Nancy (Lindsey)Beard, Eudell (Becky) Stilts, J.W. (Dimple) Stilts, Lelia Smith, Mark (Shirley) Stilts, Betty Jo Calhoun, Ray (Dale) Stilts, Mary Jane (Dale) Curtsinger, Annie (Gary) Curry and Ruby Stilts; also many nieces, nephews and cousins who will deeply miss her.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 12, at Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home, Bro. Eudell Stilts officiating. Burial will follow in DeSpain Cemetery.

Visitation will be 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donation to the family to help with funeral expenses.

Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home

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