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W.T. Shumake and Daughters Funeral Home, 3815 Newburg Road, Louisville, KY (2025)

10/29/2025

July 10, 1032 - October 21, 2025

Ollie Jane Everette Nicholson, 94, of Louisville transitioned on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 in Hopkinsville, KY.

Visitation 9-11am Friday, October 31, 2025 at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road. Funeral to follow at 11am. Burial Lebanon National Cemetery, Lebanon, Kentucky.

Ollie Jane Everette Nicholson, beloved Mother of Carol Nicholson Watters, Matthew (Francis), Christopher (Ann), Michael (Vanessa), Steven (Edyth), Stephanie Northington (Kenneth), Stanley (Diana) and Wesley passed peacefully from this life on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

She was birthed by a midwife, witnessed by Mrs. Jennie Covington on July 10, 1932, at her parent’s farm on Greenlake Road in the Ellerebe Community of Rockingham, North Carolina. She is pre-deceased by her parents Elias Preston Everette and Beulah Winchester Everette, six siblings: Eula Mae, Anna, Hubert Sr., Martha, Lawrence, and Carlson.

She is a 1952 graduate of Ellerebe High School. Her foundation of faith was built at Holly Grove Baptist Church, growing in grace with the baptism in Jesus’ name in Hodgenville, KY, and continuing to learn to live a life pleasing to God.

She was married to Robert Lee Nicholson for 52 years before his passing in January 2007. During his 23 years of military service, their journeys required her lived experiences and creative skills to raise their children, celebrating their goals and accomplishments. They established homes in Germany and several states within the United States along the way, where the state of Kentucky became home, the City of Louisville became life, and the Newburg and New Broadmoor Neighborhoods became a place of love for her.

She cherished the bonds of special friendships that were made throughout the years. She loved sewing, gardening, being outside, good food, art, music, reading, writing, and good conversations with visitors on the front porch. Many good deeds she sowed whether spiritually or naturally, sharing what she had. Even through life’s trials she would declare that “God Will Make It Alright” and that He was her “Lilly of the Valley”.

Precious memories are left to her eight children, twenty grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

10/21/2025

December 13, 1951 - October 15, 2025

George Wallace Coffey, 73, of Louisville, transitioned on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

Visitation 9am - 11am Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Newburg Church of Christ 4700 E. Indian Trail. Funeral to follow at 11am. Burial Petersburg Newburg Cemetery.

George Wallace Coffey was born on December 13, 1951, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Wilbert and Agnes (formerly McDaniel) Coffey Sr.

George accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized at the Midwest Church of Christ by Minister Frank McGill. He graduated from Louisville Male High School in 1969 and from Eastern Kentucky University in 1973.

He loved deer hunting with his inseparable first cousin Bobby Burgess, for whom he considered a brother. George was a serious Louisville Cardinals fan. He also was a Mason. George worked at Whitney Young Job Corps Center for several years before retiring from Speedway Corporation as a Store Manager.

The love that my daddy showed me was fierce and loyal and helped shape me to be the woman I am today. If you knew my dad, you knew how direct he was and how he never minced words. Every chance he got, he encouraged me to do what I loved and told me how proud he was of me. There was never a time I can recall where my dad didn’t lend a helping hand; he may have given some “choice” words with that helping hand, but he always helped when he could. He showed me what it’s like to navigate this world, and for that, I will forever be grateful!

George was a son, brother, uncle, loyal friend and father; he will never be forgotten. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbert and Agnes Coffey, brothers Wilbert Coffey Jr, and Dennis Coffey.

George passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 73. He leaves to cherish his lovely only daughter, Brittiney LaNorisa Clara Washington of Louisville, KY. Three brothers Allen Coffey, Frank (Terian) Coffey, all of Louisville, KY, and Carl Ray (Shonda) Coffey of Atlanta, GA, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and friends.

10/21/2025

August 7, 1948 - October 13, 2025

Sharon Ann Freeman Jones, 77, of West Palm Beach, Florida, transitioned on Monday, October 13, 2025.

Visitation Friday, October 24, 2025, 4-6pm at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road and Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10-11am at Community Missionary Baptist Church 4909 E. Indian Trail. Funeral to follow at 11am.

Sharon Ann Freeman Jones was born on August 7, 1948, in Louisville, Kentucky, to the union of Melvin and Lillian Freeman (Smith), both of whom preceded her in death. She was the fourth of eight children and part of a close, loving family.

Sharon received her early education in the Jefferson County Public Schools and graduated from Central High School, Class of 1966. She later attended cosmetology, tailoring, and upholstery programs—truly a woman of many talents and a Proverbs 31 woman in every way.

At a young age, Sharon accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at Lampton Baptist Church. She later became a faithful and active member of Mount Calvary Full Gospel Baptist Church in West Palm Beach, Florida, serving diligently until her health began to decline.

Professionally, Sharon retired from Blue Cross and Blue Shield after many years of dedicated service. Never one to stay still, she later joined Pep Boys Auto Parts & Services, where she worked until her second retirement.

Sharon is survived by her loving husband of 26 years, Clayton Jones, who described her as “the best thing that ever happened to me in my lifetime.” She was previously married to the late James Allen Roberts, and from that union came two daughters: Angela Roberts Ellison (Kenny) and Kelli (Tony) Roberts.

Sharon’s warm spirit, infectious laughter, and unwavering faith left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was affectionately known as Honey, Momma, Aunt Sharon, Sharon Ann, and Mamoo. Her legacy of love and faith lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.

On Monday, October 13, 2025, at the tender age of 77, Sharon transitioned to her heavenly home. She leaves to cherish her memory: her husband, Clayton Jones; daughters, Angela Ellison (Kenny) and Kelli (Tony) Roberts; seven beloved bonus children; grandchildren: Christian Owens (Snow) and Joseph Hampton Roberts; great-grandchild: Christian Owens Jr.; siblings: Sylvia Stallard (Garry), James Freeman, and George Freeman; In-laws: Loretha Armstrong (Leonard), Diana Jones, Ronnie Griggs (Pandora), Edward Griggs (Janet), and Morris Griggs (Anginette); a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings: Emogene Booker, Doris Dorsey, Melvin Freeman Jr., and Carl Freeman.

Sharon was truly a blessing to her family and friends. Her gentle spirit, strong faith, and beautiful soul will be missed dearly.

10/08/2025

September 27, 1949 - October 5, 2025

Phillip Gene Lee, Sr, 76, of Louisville departed this life on Sunday, October 5, 2025 at the Essex Rehab Center.
Visitation 12-1 Saturday, October 11, 2025 at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road. Funeral to follow at 1pm. Burial Petersburg-Newburg Cemetery.

Phillip Gene Lee, Sr. was born on Tuesday, September 27, 1949, in Louisville, Kentucky to proud parents, Lonnie Anderson Lee and David Clyde Lee. He was the third child of four children born to this union.

At a young age, Phillip worshipped at Star Hope Baptist Church with his family. It was at Star Hope that Phillip began his Christian journey.

Phillip was a product of the Newburg area, where he was nurtured by his family and neighbors. He was educated in the Jefferson County Public School, and became a graduate of Seneca High School.

Following high school, Phillip entered into the work force, and was employed at General Electric for over 35 years, until retirement. He was an employee who took his job seriously, and worked hard to provide for his family. He was always known to put family first and make sure their needs were met.

Being a dedicated employee at G. E. for over 35 years, did not deprive Phillip of enjoying life in his spare time. He enjoyed bowling, roller skating, jogging, riding his motorcycle, and spending time with his family and close friends. Phillip had a love for music, which was very relaxing for him. He enjoyed listening to the radio, especially when Otis Redding and the Temptations were the main features. He also kept up with what was going on locally, and in the world. He would turn his TV to CNN, the daily news, specials, and any other channels that would inform him about his surroundings. Whenever he could find an old Apollo Show, where comedians would audition, he got a kick out of watching their performances.

Sadly, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, Phillip Gene Lee, Sr. departed this life. He leaves to cherish his memories, his son, Phillip Lee, Jr. and his daughter, Phyllis Renee Lee (Kevin Calloway); grandchildren, Tyron Q. Brown, Emmett L. Duffin, Jr., and Lauren Stoval; sister, Lillie Pearl Lee-Cowherd; one great grandson, and a host of extended family and friends.

10/03/2025

February 6, 1958 - September 29, 2025

Dwayne L. "Smiley" Stephenson, 67 of Louisville transitioned on Monday, September 29, 2025 at Norton Audubon Hospital.

Visitation 11-1 Saturday Octtober 4, 2025 at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road. Funeral to follow at 1pm.

Dwayne Lemirick Stephenson "Smiley", was welcomed into the world on February 6, 1958 in Louisville, Kentucky, to proud parents, Raymond Theodore Stephenson, Jr. and Juanita Mary Wallace Stephenson. He was the first born of four children, and the only boy. At an early age, Dwayne accepted Christ.
Dwayne was a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School on June 1, 1978. Following high school, Dwayne enlisted into the United States Army Reserves. He was employed at Faurecia Exhaust System and Home of the Innocence, for several years, in the capacity of custodial maintenance.

Smiley, as he was affectionately called by family members and close friends, will be remembered for his charismatic smile, charm, and his dapper fashion sense. He was such a well- groomed man, with impeccable taste in his attire and appearance.
Dwayne was a die heart U of L fan. He was very friendly, and took pleasure in stopping through the neighborhood, visiting friends an neighbors, and sitting down to a good hearty meal. He relaxed by listening to different genres of music. Family was very important to Dwayne. Anybody who knew him, most certainly knew he loved his son, granddaughter, and mother.

Sadly, on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the tender age of 67, Dwayne L. Stephenson "Smiley", departed this life to be with his Heavenly Father. He leaves to cherish his memories, his only son, Dwayne Kishawn Spencer; granddaughter, Adashe Spencer; sisters, Brigitte R. Stephenson, Vicky R. Stephenson, Yvette S. Lovan (Terry D.Lovan), and Evelyn Toogood; along with a host of other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond Stephenson, Jr and Juanita Mary Wallace Stephenson.

09/12/2025

March 30, 1953 - September 6,2025

Shirleen Blanche Sheckles Dobson, 72, of Louisville transition on Saturday September 6, 2025.
Visitation 11am - 12pm Saturday, W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road. Funeral to follow. Burial Green Meadow Cemetery 3800 Shanks Lane.

Shirleen Blanche Sheckles Dobson was born March 30, 1953, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Anna Keelynn and John Raymond Sheckles. She was the youngest of their four children. She began her Christian journey at a young age while attending Mt. Olive Baptist Church with her family. Shirleen was baptized at Cable Baptist Church and became a member under the leadership of Rev. Clay C. Calloway.

She was educated in the Jefferson County Public Schools and graduated from Central High School. After graduation, Shirleen entered into the work force as a secretarial support for the Boys & Girls Club in the Newburg area. Soon after, she went to work for the Census Bureau in Jeffersonville, Indiana, where she took advantage of their educational advancement incentives and successfully received an associate degree. Shirleen began at an entry level position as a data entry processor and was promoted to overseeing government contracts before retiring after 35 years of service.

After retirement, Shirleen had more time to enjoy some of her favorite things to do such as playing chess, darts, and bingo. Her mother introduced her to knitting, and she continued that tradition of creating wonderful blankets and comforters. Shirleen also enjoyed painting ceramic molds which showcased African motifs.

Shirleen was a straight-forward, tell-you-the-truth even if it hurts person. She could be counted on to help others in their time of need. Her words of encouragement and sharing nuggets of wisdom about how to navigate life on life’s terms will be remembered and used. Most of all, her greatest joy was being around family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Dobson; parents, Anna and John Sheckles; and sisters, Rosia Dunlap, Charlesetta Samuels, and Mary Eliza Sheckles-Bland. On Saturday, September 6, 2025, Shirleen Dobson departed this life. She leaves to cherish their memories of her: children, Jonathan Raymond Murry, Henry De’Wan Dobson, and Quinnita Michelle Tinker-Dobson; grandchildren, Deontae Dobson, Stephon Bobo, Markelo Sullivan, Mark Anthony Sullivan, Roghae Tinker, RaJae Tinker, DeAudre Ezekiel Colwell McClain, Elizabeth De’Nisha Murry, James Minor Murry, and Miracle Potter; great grandchildren, Roghae Q. Tinker, Jr., Makaii K. Tinker, De’Audre Ezekiel Caldwell, Jr.; brother, Larry Williams; and a host of extended family and friends.

09/06/2025

June 13, 1973 - August 22, 2025

Shawna Diane Fow Reeves, 52, of Louisville transitioned on Friday, August 22, 2025 at Norton Audubon Hospital.

Memorial Service 2-4pm Saturday, September 13, 2025 at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road.

Shawna Diane Fow Reeves was born June 13, 1973, in Louisville, Kentucky. She was educated in the Jefferson County Public Schools System and graduated from Central High School. From the very beginning, music was a big part of her life. She enjoyed listening to it, attending the latest concerts, and participating in all karaoke opportunities with her friends. Her fun-loving personality made Shawna a joy to be around. As much as she enjoyed these things, Shawna also was very much dedicated to a career in sales where she was a hardworking sales representative for Martco, Incorporated (CCTV) for twenty-nine years.

In her spare time, she enjoyed watching horror movies; True Crime TV shows; and writing poetry. Since she was an excellent cook, her family and friends especially enjoyed her chili which was made from a family recipe, banana pudding, and chorizo dip with spicy Mexican sausage. Shawna faithfully watched cooking shows such as Chops, Hell’s Kitchen, Iron Chef, and Master Chef.

When each one of her children was born, she immediately set them up with their own Gmail account which was very forward thinking. Shawna also introduced them to her love of the WWF, now called the WWE-----yes, wrestling. Each of her children, Jeremy, Nathaniel and Lana, excelled in wrestling. In fact, her daughter, Lana, received a college scholarship to become a member of the Midway wrestling team.

Needless to say, Shawna’s greatest joy was being a mother to her children. She attended every school event, field trip, activities of all sorts. She always showed her support and encouraged them to never quit. Shawna was a dependable mother who could be counted on to be present and involved in the lives of her children.

Sadly, on Friday, August 22, 2025, Shawna Diane Fow Reeves, at the tender age of 52, departed this life. She leaves to cherish their many memories of her: sons, Jeremy Fow, Nathaniel Reeves, and daughter, Lana Reeves; mother, Deborah Fow Massey; and host of extended family and friends.

Shawna Diane Fow Reeves will be missed so very much!

08/30/2025

September 17, 1997 - August 21, 2025

DeShawn Marion Evans, 27, of Louisville, transitioned on Thursday, August 21, 2025.

Visitation 3pm - 5pm Sunday, August 31, 2025 at .T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road. Funeral to follow at 5pm.

DeShawn Marion Evans was born Wednesday, September 17, 1997, to Keith Evans and Angelique Bowen in Louisville, Kentucky. He accepted Christ at an early age. DeShawn successfully went through all his required years of school. He attended Valley High School but graduated from Iroquois High School.

As is true for most boys, he loved to play sports while growing up and especially baseball where his favorite position was pitching, and he excelled at that. DeShawn struck out many players during his years of playing baseball.

Although he enjoyed the sports in which he participated, DeShawn was also a diehard fan of the Louisville Cardinals basketball and football teams. His favorite NBA team was the Los Angeles Lakers, and he always claimed the Atlanta Falcons football team as his favorite NFL team.

DeShawn was the second of two children. On Thursday August 21, 2025, he was called to his eternal rest. Memories of DeShawn Marion Evans will be cherished by his loving mother, Angelique Bowen; father, Keith Evans; sister, Bre' Bowen (Nick Braddock); three nephews, Aiden C. Braddock, Adrian X Braddock, and Ashton J Braddock; grandparents, Thornton and Tina Bowen; cousins, who were more like brothers, Cameron Evans, Daymon “DJ” Rowe, Jr., and Jeremiah Lewis; and a host of aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends. DeShawn was preceded in death by his grandmother, Edna Mae Evans and aunts, Shellie Rowe and Pamela Bowen.

Psalms 34:18, The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in Spirit.
Matthew 5:4, Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

08/26/2025

July 12, 1948 - August 21, 2025

Donald Lee Green, 77 of Louisville transitioned on Thursday, August 21, 2025, surrounded by family.

Visitation 10-12 Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Evangel World Prayer Center, 6900 Billtown Road. Funeral to follow at 12 noon. Burial Middletown Cemetery.

Donald Lee “Bubba” Green was born on July 12th, 1948, in Anchorage, Kentucky to Rev. LMinor Green and Willie Castle Jones Green. Born and raised in the Griffytown community on Malcolm Avenue, Don grew up grounded in faith, family, and friendship—values that guided him throughout his life.

Don excelled as an athlete, playing football at Eastern High School and later at Kentucky State University. After college, he went on to proudly serve his country as a member of the 100th Division/ US Army Reserve.

Don built a long and respected career with the Kentucky State Department of Corrections, as a CUA II (Correctional Unit Administrator II), where he was admired for his professionalism, fairness, and integrity. After many years of dedicated service, he retired with pride, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and leadership.

A man of great strength and resilience, Don faced life’s challenges with courage, including his successful battle as a cancer survivor. He was known for his sharp wit, warm smile, and the ability to make those around him feel at ease. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he especially loved cheering on the University of Louisville Cardinals, a passion that brought him joy season after season.

Outside of work and sports, Don found peace and fulfillment in simple joys. He loved fishing on quiet mornings, cooking for family gatherings, and sharing life lessons through his natural gift for teaching. His greatest joy, however, was found in time spent with his wife, Karen; daughter, Donna, and his grandchildren. He was deeply proud of them all, and nothing made him happier than cheering them on, encouraging them in their dreams, and reminding them of how loved they were.

Don was blessed to share his life with two remarkable women. He was first married to Clancey, with whom he built many cherished memories and raised three children, later welcoming the joy of grandchildren into his life. In time, he found love again with his wife, Karen, who remained a faithful companion by his side in his later years.

Sadly Donald Lee Green at the tender age of 77, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 21, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones He is lovingly survived by his wife, Karen; twin brother, Ron Green; his devoted daughter, Donna Green; stepchildren, Brian (Shanel), Alex (Keisha), Anthony (Brigitte)Raspberry his cherished grandchildren, Deshon Green, Elexus Green, Edward Green, Caylynn Brewer, Isryll Green, Chelsea Brewer, and Camryn Brewer, Bryson, Jayden, Ethan, Joshua, Ayden and Elizabeth Raspberry;; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Kiari Green, Nasir Green, Zyking Green, and Zoe Green. He was also blessed with a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will carry his memory in their hearts. Don was preceded in death by his first wife, Clancey; his son, Edward “Eddie”; his daughter, Kimberly; his brother, Rick; and his sisters, Charlotte and Daphanie.

Don’s legacy is one of faith, loyalty, and joy. He will be remembered for the laughter he brought, the encouragement he gave, and the strength he showed in every season of life. Though his earthly journey is complete, his spirit lives in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

08/21/2025

November 6, 1965 - August 14, 2025

Gloria Denise Bell, 59, of Louisville transitioned on Thursday, April 14, 2025.

Visitation 10-12 Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Community Hope Baptist Church 6416 Vandre Avenue. Funeral to follow at 12 Noon. Burial Green Meadows Cemetery.

Gloria Denise Bell was born on November 6, 1965, in Louisville, Kentucky, to proud parents Barbara Bell and Elizah Brown. She was the third oldest of five girls. Gloria was blessed to be raised by her grandparents, Luther and Evelyn Bell, as she was also a blessing to them.

Gloria, or "Little Moma", as she was affectionately called, began her Christian journey at a young age at Forest Tabernacle Baptist Church. She later united with Community Hope Baptist Church, under the leadership of Rev. Larry Tucker.

Gloria was educated in the Jefferson County Public School System, and graduated from Atherton High School. Her education did not stop with her high school graduation. Gloria pursued furthering her education, and reached her ultimate goal of receiving her Bachelor's and Master's Degrees.

"Little Moma", was just that… a little momma, who had a caring personality, a heart of giving, and a sweet spirit that was felt by everyone she came in contact with. Gloria was blessed with the ability to be an excellent listener, who could offer sound advice, when asked. She was there for anyone who needed a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen, and a heart to share the love. These refreshing attributes were the soul of Gloria. Family was of the utmost importance and focus of her life. Being around family was her greatest joy.

Gloria was employed by the LaGrange Correctional Facility, as a Correctional Officer. She was a responsible, dependable and dedicated employee of the facility, and retired after many years of service.

Gloria loved being with family, and valued working, but she found time to also relax. Her relaxation came in the form of listening to music. She had an extensive genre of music. She enjoyed listening to the music of Janet Jackson and Patti LaBelle, but her favorite musical artists were Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin.
Cooking was also a form of relaxation for Gloria. She was a phenomenal cook, who enjoyed seeing family and friends "stick their feet under her table" and savor her steak, pork chops and greens. Also, it's not known if many people were privileged to know Gloria wrote poetry. This may have been a hidden talent that was not shared with others.

Sadly, on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at the tender age of 59, Gloria Denise Bell, departed this life. She leaves to cherish her memories, her only child and son, K'Ran Bell; sisters, Katina and Tomiko Bell; brother, Richard Harris; aunt, Curley Bruce; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

08/17/2025

March 28, 1932 – August 12, 2025

Alice Elizabeth “Doodlebug” Brown passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, at the age of 93, surrounded by her loved ones at the University of Louisville Hospital.

Visitation 10-12 Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home 3815 Newburg Road. Funeral to follow at 12 noon. Burial Petersburg-Newburg Cemetery.

Alice Elizabeth Brown, affectionately known as “Doodlebug,” was born on March 28, 1932, in Springfield, Kentucky to George and Mary Ray. Alice was one of eight children, and from the very start, she was known for her warmth, strength, and unapologetic spirit.

A devoted mother, Alice poured her love and energy into raising her six children : Richard, Peggy, Cecil, John, Terry, and Gregory. She created a home filled with the smell of delicious meals, the sound of music and laughter, and the comfort of knowing you were always welcome. Alice loved to cook, dance, and share her wisdom with anyone who would listen. She never hesitated to speak her mind, and those who knew her admired her honesty, humor, and heart.

Alice also dedicated her time and service to St. Martin’s Catholic Church, where she was a valued and beloved member of the parish. Her faith and commitment to her community touched countless lives over the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents George and Mary Ray; her sons Richard, Cecil, and Terry; her brothers Robert, George, William, and Preston; and her sister Betty. She leaves behind her daughter Peggy; sons John and Gregory; sisters Louise and Sarah; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Alice “Doodlebug” Brown will be remembered for her love of family, her giving heart, her joyful spirit, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy of love and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

07/31/2025

December 3, 1942 - July 27, 2025

Earnest Raymond Thomas, Sr., 82 formerly of Shelbyville, Kentucky, transitioned at his home in Louisville, Kentucky on Sunday, July 27, 2025

Visitation 11am - 1pm Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Clay Street Baptist Church 1940 Midland Trail, Shelbyville, Kentucky. Funeral will follow at 1pm.

Earnest Raymond Thomas, Sr., was born in Shelbyville, Kentucky, on December 3, 1942, to Alex and Renee Thomas. He was their youngest child.

His Christian journey began in Shelby County at Christianburg Baptist Church, formerly called Six Mile Baptist Church, a historical church dating back to 1795. He was educated in the Shelby County School System and graduated from Lincoln Institute in Simpsonville, Kentucky.

He was a hard worker who possessed great work ethics that were respected and appreciated by his employers and co-workers. His initial employment was as a truck driver for both Overnight Trucking Company and Coca Cola Bottling Company. For 45 years, Earnest worked as the maintenance technician for Gallahue Realty, a real estate company in Louisville. After retirement, he did not sit idle for long because he decided to return to work.

In his spare time, he could be found with his fishing pole in his hand heading to one of his favorite fishing spots where he fished for hours. He took great pleasure in teaching his sons and grandchildren how to fish. Besides fishing, Earnest also enjoyed watching University of Louisville basketball, football, and baseball. He was an excellent bowler, and when he relaxed, BB King was one of his favorite artists he chose to listen to and relax. Spending time with family and friends also brought him great joy.

Earnest was preceded in death by his son, Thaddius Wayne Thomas who died in 2014. Sadly, on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the tender age of 82, Earnest Raymond Thomas, Sr., departed this life. He leaves to cherish their wonderful memories of him: his son, Ernest Thomas, Jr.; grandsons, Lacy Thomas and Maurice Peterson; nephew and best friend, Marcus Johnson; adopted daughter, Patricia Sykes; companion for more than twenty years, Dorothy Miller; and a host of nephews and nieces.
Earnest Raymond Thomas, Sr., gone but never forgotten!

W.T. Shumake and Daughters Funeral Home

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