http://www.thebreathittfuneralhome.com/

Breathitt Funeral Home & Monument Co., 409 Highway 15 South; PO Box 201, Jackson, KY (2025)

09/02/2025

Roger Howard, 79, of Chenowee, Kentucky, departed this earthly life on Monday, September 1, 2025 at his residence.

Roger was born at Old Buck on September 10, 1945 to the late Clay Howard and Jewell Bowling Howard. He was a proud high school graduate and continued his education with some college coursework. Before becoming disabled, Roger worked as a welder with National Concrete.

A U.S. Army veteran, Roger honorably served his country as a paratrooper. He was also a dedicated member of the Breathitt Masonic Lodge #649 F&AM. In his leisure time, he enjoyed playing guitar, singing, reading western novels and spending time with his family. He was an avid UK basketball and football fan.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sons, Kevin Howard and Michael Mitchell Howard and his brother, Jerry “Bubbo” Howard.

Roger is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Della Raleigh Howard; his son, Roger Dale (Tina) Howard; special daughter, Jamie McIntosh; brother, Gary Howard; sister, Janet Howard Combs; grandchildren, Michael, Roger, Phillip, Kevin Clay “KC,” and Wendall Dale “Buster”; seven great-grandchildren; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and friends.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 5, 2025, at the Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel beginning at 12:00 PM. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM with Chris Turner officiating. Burial will take place in the Bowling and Howard Cemetery on Curt Road at Old Buck with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

Military rites and Masonic rites will be observed at the beginning of the service.

Roger will be remembered for his strength, his devotion to family, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.

08/28/2025

Odis Trusty Sr., age 86, of Lambric, Ky, passed away peacefully at his residence on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.

Born in Decoy, Kentucky to the late Green and Ella Stacy Trusty, Odis' life was marked by hard work, quiet strength and deep devotion to family. Along with his parents, he was also preceded in death by his son, Odis Trusty Jr.; brothers, Arthur Trusty and Oakie Trusty; and sisters, Thelma Smith, Treva McMullough, Eva Howard, Noakie Trusty, Ellen Rose, and Lonnie Allen.

A retired coal miner, Odis spent decades working on the hills he called home, providing for his family with grit and determination. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life—hunting in the woods, fishing in the creeks, tending to his garden, watching television, and spending time with those he loved most.

He is survived by his wife, Pearlie Trusty; special son, Hobert Bailey Jr.; special daughter, Charlotte Lovely; daughter-in-law, Charlene Trusty; brother, Blaine Trusty; sisters, Sarah Bailey and Evelyn Trusty; and step-granddaughter, Charlotte Howard. Odis will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, gentle humor, and the quiet wisdom he carried through the years. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, beginning at 6:00 PM at the Decoy Community Church with additional church services starting at 7:00 PM. Funeral services will take place at the church on Saturday, August 30, at 12:00 PM with Harold Clemons and Sherman Clemons officiating. Burial will follow in the Bradley Cemetery at Decoy with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

08/26/2025

Ray Douglas Gross, lovingly known as “Ross,” age 71, of Big Branch, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington. Born in Jackson, Kentucky, Ross built a life full of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.

A retired coal truck driver and self-employed worker, Ross took great pride in his work and in the friendships he built along the way. Known as the “life of the party,” Ross never met a stranger. His quick wit, love of joking, and lively spirit brought joy to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Ross found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed squirrel hunting, listening to music, and spending time with his cherished big green dump truck. Most of all, he loved his family deeply and treasured every moment spent with them.

He was the son of the late Scott “Doc” Gross and Eliza Spicer Gross. In addition to his parents, Ross was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Gross Combs; his sister, Faye Miller; and his brothers, Robert “Bruce” Gross and Leroy Gross.

Ross is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Kathleen Watts Gross; his daughter, Michelle and husband Ronnie Gross; and his son-in-law, Kelvin Combs. He is also survived by his sisters, Alma Jean and husband Harlos Brewer, Joyce Ann and husband Eddie Hensley; his brother, Wendell Gross; and his cherished grandsons, Hagen Kelvin Combs and Ryland Ray Gross. He held a special bond with his nephews Todd Brewer, Scott Gross, and B.J. Gross, who were dear to his heart.

Ross leaves behind a host of family and friends who will miss his laughter, his stories, and the joy he brought into every room. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the memories of all who loved him.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the chapel with Tim Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the Haddix Cemetery at Haddix.

Serving as pallbearers will be Chris Hollon, Todd Brewer, Ov Watts Jr., Eddie Johnson, Travis Noble, and Jody Howard. Honorary pallbearers will include Bob Hollon, Arlin Hudson, Ike Graham, Hubert Hollon, Sammy Franks, Harlos Brewer, Kenny Tyra, and Robert Hurst.

08/24/2025

Jammie Hall Adams, 54, of Turners Creek, Kentucky departed this earthly life following an extended illness on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Norton Audubon Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky. Born on June 27, 1971 in Hazard, Kentucky, she was a devoted daughter, sister, mother and friend whose life was rooted in love for her family and her Christian faith.

Jammie was the cherished daughter of James and Brenda Herald Hall. She grew up surrounded by a close-knit family and carried those values throughout her life. A homemaker, Jammie found joy in the simple pleasures of daily life—reading a good book, collecting recipes, playing games on her phone during quiet moments and indulging in network shopping. But above all else, she treasured time spent with her family. Her grandchildren were the light of her life and she delighted in every moment shared with them.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Chelsea Adams; her grandchildren, Lukas Simons, Hunter Sizemore, Kaleb Sizemore, and Bristol Ritchie; her parents, James and Brenda Hall; her brother, Jason Hall and his wife Fannie; her sister, Jolene Gross and her husband David. Jammie also leaves behind a large extended family who held a special place in her heart: aunts and uncles, Judy Smith; John Herald (Sharon); Everett Herald (Terri); Jesse Hall; Dan Hall (Mabel); Henry Hall (Julie); Mary Turner; Garlene Turner; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Reva and Everett Herald and Margarett and Dan Hall.

Visitation for Jammie will begin Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at the Breathitt Funeral Home starting at 11:00AM with her funeral service to begin at 1:00PM with Bess Gross Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in the Raleigh Cemetery at Turners Creek with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

Jammie's warmth and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on through the stories shared around the kitchen table, the laughter of grandchildren she adored so dearly, and the enduring love of those whose lives she touched.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." — Revelation 21:4

08/20/2025

Nellie Back Clemons, a beacon of warmth and grace slipped peacefully from this world on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at Wells Hospice Care Center in Hazard at the age of 91. Born on April 25, 1934 at Decoy, KY, Nellie spent her life crafting a legacy of love, resilience, and faith.

She served her community with pride as a cook for the Breathitt County Board of Education, nurturing countless young souls with her culinary gifts until her retirement. Nellie's kitchen was her sanctuary and she fed countless numbers. Her sewing needle was a tool of magic creating warmth and comfort for those she cherished. A devoted advocate for the Lord, Nellie found profound joy within her church community where her spirit flourished. She was a Pentecostal and was always sharing the good news of Jesus with whomever she talked.

The widow of the late Kelly Clemons and the daughter of the late William and Ollie Back Ritchie she was also preceded in death by her son, Jimmy Back; her brothers, Pearl Ritchie, Troy Ritchie, Earl Ritchie, Melvin Ritchie, Junior Ritchie; her sisters, Edna Caudill, Hazel Ritchie, Jewel Holbrook, Helen Davis.

Nellie is survived by her special loving and devoted daughter-in-law, Debra Back; brother, Alvin Ritchie (Lou); sisters, Jean Bates (James), Betty Napier; grandchildren, Daniel Back (Lisa), Eric Back (Eleisha Asher), Jesse Back; her great grandchildren, Caitlin Danielle, Daniel Ray II, Hayley Elizabeth, Kylie Rae, Katelynn Alexandria; her great great granddaughter, Isabelle Rose; special nieces, Briana Cundiff Mathews, Michelle McDaniel (Wendell), Ollie Bates, Tiffany Trent; special nephew, Ricky Holbrook (Connie); special great niece, Kristen Ritchie.

Visitation for Nellie will begin Friday, August 22, 2025 at the Breathitt Funeral Home from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM. There will be an evening church service starting at 7:00 PM. The funeral service will be held Saturday, August 23, beginning at 1:00 PM with Shawn Yates and Wendell McDaniel officiating. Burial will follow in the Jackson Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

08/16/2025

Vivian Ruth Neace, 73, of Jackson, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at the Greg and Noreen Wells Hospice Care Center in Hazard, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on September 20, 1951, in Haddix, Kentucky to the late Jeff Combs and Geraldine Strong Combs. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Ed Combs and Larry Combs; her sister, Verda Francis; and her great-granddaughter, Willow.

Vivian was a devoted homemaker who also worked at LBJ School in the lunchroom, as well as at Winn-Dixie and Artley’s. She found joy in the simple things of life—sitting on the porch with a cup of coffee, cooking and washing dishes, working word puzzles, and long phone conversations with family and friends. Above all, she treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, and great grandchildren who were the light of her life.

She is survived by her loving husband, Everett Neace; two sons, Jeff Neace (Stacy) and Everett Neace Jr. (Trinity); and one brother, Billy Combs.
Her beloved grandchildren include Heather Maberry (Nick), Everett Neace III, Geoffrey Neace (Kim Combs), Chelsea Collins (Will Thomas), Jordan Neace (Adreanna), Chelsea Gilvin (Anthony), Katelyn Crabtree (Jalee), Trinten Neace (Faith), and Gabriel Neace.
She was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Madison Isabella Neace, Abrie Grace Neace, Brennan Elijah Neace, Hadlei Marie River Hon, Aaron Ray Geoffrey Neace, Ava Ruth Neace, Everleigh Austyn Collins, Emberly Anniston Collins, Elliana Rose Maberry, and Elyse Audryn James Collins.

A private visitation and graveside service was held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Haddix Cemetery, where she was laid to rest. Her grandsons lovingly served as pallbearers, carrying her to her final resting place.

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4

08/15/2025

April Dawn Combs-Hall, 49, of Independence, KY, formerly of Jackson, passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at her home. She was born in West Liberty, KY, to the late Leo Phillip Combs and Bonnie Grace Miller Combs.

April was a devoted member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Independence, where her faith was a guiding light in her life. She had a vibrant spirit and a love for exploring the world around her. April enjoyed shopping, attending car shows, traveling, visiting museums, and photography. She also had a deep passion for researching and preserving her family’s ancestry. Above all, she treasured time spent with her loved ones, cherishing every moment with them.

She is survived by her husband, Beau Hall; stepsons, Lucas Wyatt Hall and Noah James Hall; stepdaughter, Josie Elizabeth Hall; several aunts, uncles, cousins and lots of friends.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the Breathitt Funeral Home beginning at 1:00 PM, with the funeral service following at 3:30 PM with Pastor Bill Clark officiating. Burial will take place in the Jackson Cemetery.

08/13/2025

Jayden Spicer, age 10, of Canoe, Kentucky passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025. He was born October 4, 2014 at Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital.

Jayden was a bright and energetic student at Highland Turner Elementary School in Breathitt County, preparing to enter the fourth grade. He loved life with a joyful spirit that touched everyone around him. Jayden enjoyed playing Fortnite and Roblox, was a big fan of Spider-Man, and spent countless hours playing outside—throwing rocks, riding the four-wheeler, jumping on the trampoline, and playing soccer, basketball, and baseball.

He is survived by his aunts, Samantha Brunty and Chy Salyers; uncles, Michael Hays and Chris Spicer; sisters, Mia Spicer and Aliyha Spicer; brothers, Hunter Gross, River Gross, and Fisher Gross; and a “like-a-grandmother,” Linda Salyers. He also leaves behind a host of cousins and many dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Jayden was preceded in death by his grandmother, Shirley Faye Johnson, who lovingly raised him until her passing in May of this year.

Visitation for Jayden will be held Thursday, August 21, 2025 beginning at 10:00AM at the Breathitt Funeral Home and his Funeral will begin at 2:00 PM with Edward Johnson officiating. Following his funeral he will be laid to rest at his Grandmothers feet in the Molands Cemetery at Canoe, Ky, Friends and Family will serve as pallbearers.

Jayden’s playful laughter, kind heart, and adventurous nature will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Though his time here was far too short, the love he shared will last forever.

08/06/2025

Rodney Leonard "Bubba" Spencer, 51, of Georgetown, Kentucky, passed away on August 5, 2025, in Georgetown. Born on April 26, 1974, in Lexington, Kentucky, Rodney was a proud Kentuckian whose life was rooted in family, faith, and hands-on craftsmanship.

Rodney graduated from Breathitt High School in 1992. During his high school years, he was an active member of both the ROTC and the Future Farmers of America (FFA), reflecting his early dedication to leadership and agriculture. Following graduation, he pursued his passion for working with his hands by attending two years of vocational school where he studied woodworking—an interest that would remain a lifelong pursuit.

Rodney found joy in simple pleasures and meaningful pastimes. He had a deep love for woodworking and took pride in creating with his hands. Whether grilling outdoors or cooking up something special in the kitchen, he enjoyed sharing meals with those around him. He also loved riding four-wheelers through Kentucky’s backroads and spending time at the shooting range. His hobbies reflected a spirit of adventure and a connection to the land he called home.

A man of faith, Rodney attended Stamping Ground Church of God whenever possible. When health or circumstances kept him from being there in person, he remained devoted by watching services via livestream—a testament to his enduring spiritual commitment.

Rodney is lovingly remembered by his mother, Kathleen Johnson Spencer; his father, Rodney Spencer; his sister, Tina Fryman (David); his nephew, Patrick Allen McCreary; and his niece, Megan Diane Hamilton (Dylan). He also leaves behind a host of uncles, aunts, and cousins who will cherish their memories with him.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Hiram and Golden Toler Johnson; and paternal grandparents, Leonard and Mary M. Walters Spencer.

Rodney’s life will be honored at a funeral service held at Breathitt Funeral Home on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 1:00 PM with Dennis Creech officiating. Rodney will be laid to rest in the Holbrook Cemetery on Strong Fork at Keck, Kentucky. Visitation will be held Friday, August 8, at the funeral home from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

May the memory of Rodney Leonard "Bubba" Spencer bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.

Be strong and courageous for the Lord thy God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

08/05/2025

Herman Harvey funeral service

08/05/2025

Philip Sheffel, 74, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 4, 2025, at the UK Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky. Born on September 26, 1950, in Omaha, Nebraska, he lived a life marked by dedication to his work, love for his family, and enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures.

Philip earned his bachelor’s degree and went on to build a long and respected career as a banker with First National Bank of Jackson. Over the years, he became a trusted figure in the community through his work and leadership. He retired in 2015 after decades of service.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Deborah Sue (Davison) Sheffel; his parents, Wayne and Fern (Readout) Sheffel; brothers, Tom Sheffel and Mark Sheffel; and sister, Delores Neace.

Philip is survived by his son, P.J. Sheffel (Mandi); daughter, Kristy Sheffel Deep and grandchildren Madeline, Katie and Tripp. He also leaves behind his brothers, Dave Sheffel, Don Sheffel, Paul Sheffel, Alan Sheffel, Mike Sheffel and Eric Sheffel; sisters Susie Geiger, Becky Mulroy, Vicki Sheffel and Melody Sheffel; along with a host of nieces and nephews who were dear to him.

Outside of work and family life, Philip found joy in golf, gardening, feeding birds from the comfort of his porch, and spending time with those closest to him. His appreciation for nature and quiet moments reflected the warmth he brought into the lives of others.

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, August 7, 2025 at the Breathitt Funeral Home at 5:00PM and his service will begin at 6:30PM. A graveside service will be held Friday, August 8, at 11:00 AM at the Sheffel Cemetery at Little, Kentucky. Pallbearers will include family and friends. Honorary pallbearers are former employees of First National Bank of Jackson.

May Philip’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

08/04/2025

Michael L. "Hooper" Gross, 66 of Sebastian Branch, Kentucky, passed away on August 4, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family.

A self-employed man throughout his working years, Michael found joy in the simple pleasures of life—especially those spent outdoors or surrounded by family. Hunting and fishing were among his favorite pastimes, offering him both peace and adventure. More than anything else, he cherished time with his children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories through shared stories and laughter.

Michael's love for storytelling was a defining part of who he was. Whether gathered around a fire or sitting on a porch swing, he had a way of bringing people together through tales that blended humor, wisdom, and heart. His ability to connect with others left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

He is lovingly remembered by his son, Michael L. Gross Jr. (Lois); daughters, Georgia L. Johnson (Jeremy), Mary L. Stamper (Philip), and May M. Gross (Todd Combs); brothers, Carlis Gross (Margaret) and Bobby Gross (Louise); sisters, Helen Turner (J.C.) and Lois Noble (Anthony) and a special nephew, Ronnie Gross. Michael was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Martha Deaton Gross and brothers, Lonnie Gross, Ronnie Gross, and Roy Gross.

Visitation for Michael will be held Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at the Breathitt Funeral Home from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM and his funeral service is scheduled for Wednesday, August 6, at 11:00 AM with John Bunn officiating. Burial will follow in the Gross Family Cemetery located on Stone Coal Creek at Sebastian Branch with Jeremy Johnson, Ronnie Gross, Todd Combs, John Turner, Philip Stamper and Michael Gross serving as pallbearers.

Michael's presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all whose lives he touched with his warmth and stories. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

Breathitt Funeral Home & Monument Co.

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