Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society

08/19/2025

Gary Wayne Curtis, of Wickliffe, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Clinton Place Nursing Home in Clinton, Kentucky. He was born in Wyatt, Missouri, on June 3, 1947, to Elwayne and Hazel Thorton Curtis.

For most of his life, Gary was an ironworker with the Local 782. Gary was also a commercial fisherman, which to him was more than just a job; it was a hobby that he enjoyed and respected. His friends knew him as someone who would drop everything without hesitation to help, whether it was for a major project or a minor fix.

Gary loved the simple pleasures in life, like tending to his garden and cutting firewood, but more than anything, Gary's heart belonged to his grandchildren. His role as a grandfather was one he embraced with all his heart. Gary Wayne Curtis lived fully and loved deeply. His absence will be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Gary is survived by his son, Jason (Angela) Curtis of Wickliffe; a sister, Retha Curtis of Sikeston; four brothers, Kevin (Lisa) Curtis of Marietta, Georgia, Lowell (Lillie) Curtis of Cedartown, Georgia, Delbert (Debbie) Curtis of Mayfield, and Stan Curtis of Atlanta, Georgia; six grandchildren, Kirk Tucker, Crysania Tucker, Naoma (Alex Schroerlucke) Curtis, Janie (Max) Haupt, Miah (Hunter) Matlock, and Mandi (Brian) Curtis; five great-grandchildren, Johnny Matlock, Willow Schroerlucke, Theo Schroerlucke, Scarlett Matlock, and Skylynn Hilliard; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Johnny Curtis; a sister, Sandra Westbrook; and his parents.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 21, 2025, 12:00 pm, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe with Dee Hazlewood officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Church Cemetery in Wickliffe.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the service time of 12:00 pm on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Gideons International, Ballard County, PO Box 10, Kevil KY 42053.

08/17/2025

Donnie Ray Ellis, of Bardwell, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, at the Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah. He was born on May 23, 1952, in Cairo, Illinois, to Charles and Martha Gardner Forgey.

As a 1970 Carlisle County high school graduate, Donnie later became an esteemed team member at Harris Engineering, where his craftsmanship as a tool and die maker and his skills in electrical maintenance earned him the respect and appreciation of his colleagues throughout his career. Harris Engineering is not only where Donnie retired, but also where he met his wife, Paula.

Upon his retirement, Donnie’s faith as a Christian was evident in his actions. He became widely known in his community for his willingness to help others. His laughter was contagious, and his kindness knew no bounds; he was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back without a second thought.

Donnie's love for the great outdoors could only be matched by the love he had for his wife, with whom he shared countless unforgettable days fishing and camping. Nature was his haven, and he found solace and joy in the simple pleasures it offered. His interests spanned various activities, but it was his cherished "fur babies," May May and Jimmy Lee, that brought him immense joy. His love for his pets was profound, and their loyal companionship was a highlight of his daily life.

His gentle presence will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Yet, the memory of his warm smile and heartwarming sense of humor with which he approached each day will continue to live on.

Donald is survived by his wife, Paula Ann Hall Ellis; three sisters, Janice Payne (Gary) of Florida, Julia Morris of Bardwell, and Cynthia Larkins (Steve) of Clinton; one brother, Eugene Ellis (Billie) of Wickliffe; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Per his wishes, Donnie will be cremated, and there will be no services.

Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105, or The Animal Foundation, 655 N Mojave Rd, Las Vegas NV 89101.

08/14/2025

Shirley Pool Williams, lovingly known as “Granny Shirley”, of Barlow, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Life Care Center of La Center. Granny Shirley was born on February 3, 1937, to Henry and Esther Hargrove Pool.

There are not enough bourbon barrels in Kentucky, a bathtub big enough to hold the tears, or dynamite strong enough to compare to Granny Shirley. She was so loved and had a spirit and sass like none other. God really did break the mold when he made her. At 5 feet tall and less through the years, she was something unmatched, and she would tell you about it too!

Granny Shirley worked hard throughout her life at multiple occupations because she enjoyed so many different things in life. She’s built bridges, carpentry, made shoes, lamps, guns, and even stole a porta-potty or two off the Cairo bridge. She loved music and dancing, traveling the world, and always had the best time doing it all. Granny Shirley was smart as a tack and strong as a mule, and she didn’t mind telling you how she felt, even if it ruffled feathers.

Granny Shirley is survived by her three daughters, Lucretia (David) Reno, of Wickliffe, Tonya Seaborne, of Wickliffe, and Lacy Jean, of Paducah; one son, Erik Williams, of Wickliffe; three sisters, Sue Forgey, of Hazel, Kentucky, Fanetta (Tim) Puckett, of Cunningham, and Aloah (Ralph) Viets, of Springfield, Illinois; three grandchildren, Kelly (Brandon) Lassiter, of Benton, Leslie (Jared) Crawford, of Wickliffe, and Alicyn (Logan) Seaborn, of Paducah; four great-grandchildren, Kalyn Lassiter, Brady Lassiter, Tessa Crawford, and Larrah Kate Crawford; one great-great grandchild, Aria Williams; and she is loved by several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her brothers, Bobby and Henry Edward “Bubba” Pool, and her parents.

Visitation will be held at Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe, on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. until the service time of 2:00 p.m. Dee Hazelwood will officiate. Burial will follow at Wickliffe City Cemetery.

08/11/2025

Patrick Romaine passed away on August 9, 2025. He was born in Paducah, Kentucky, on September 11, 1958, to Dean Edward Romaine and Janet Stevens Romaine. He grew up in Bandana, KY.

Patrick worked in the telecommunications field for over 30 years and received a certification in computer science. His hard work allowed him and his family to have experiences living throughout the country, from the lush greenery of Kentucky to enchanted deserts, mile high mountains and blue oceans, and back home again. His welcoming and compassionate spirit was admirable, and he could brighten anybody’s day with his conversations. He was kind to animals, especially his dogs, and he had a love for rock and roll music.

Patrick leaves behind three children, Eric, who lives in California, Ashley, who lives in Colorado, and Tevia, who lives in Ohio; seven grandchildren, who he loved and adored, and they were fortunate for all of the fun and care which he shared with them; his father, Dean Romaine of Bandana; two brothers, Kevin Romaine of La Center, and Chris Romaine of Princeton; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Janet Stevens Romaine.

Grave side services will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, 10:00 a.m., at Oscar Community Cemetery with Rev. Ryan Baker officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.

08/08/2025

Lindy Sue (White) Gholson of Lovelaceville, Kentucky, passed away on Monday, August 4, 2025, and ran with joy into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Sue was born in Paducah, Kentucky, on November 11, 1928, to Edward and Ada (Burrow) White, and she lived in Lovelaceville her entire life.

Sue lived a life that glorified God and her influence and relationships throughout the years were evidence of His ongoing work in her life. Her fondness for candy, sweets, and Kleenexes coupled with her famous sense of humor, her generosity, and her amazing ability to “hold court” with her storytelling, endeared her to so many. She had a God-given knack for finding people who needed support and encouragement, whether it was money, a meal, or a friend. Sue cared for many throughout her life, and, even as she was passing, would always speak of how much God blessed her in 96 years. Special thanks to the staff and residents of Rivercrest Place, who made her last six years enjoyable and memorable, and Providence Pointe who cared for her in her last days. They were like a second family to her, and she loved them.

Sue graduated as salutatorian from Blandville High School. She worked as a beautician, and she and her husband, Ferd, owned and operated Lovelaceville Feed Mill for more than 30 years. Sue was a beloved member of the Lovelaceville Missionary Baptist Church and later Mt. Zion Baptist Church.

Sue is survived by her daughter, Julia Thompson (Philip) of Lovelaceville; her son, Russell F. Gholson of Davis, OK; her son-in-law, Gary Thomas (Ginger) of Lovelaceville; her grandchildren, Andy Thompson (Rachel) of Lovelaceville, Josh Thomas (Lindsay) of Louisville, Luke Thompson (Amanda) of Lovelaceville, and Erin Agamah (Gift) of Richmond, Virginia, her great-grandchildren, Anna Thompson, Elan and Rose Thomas, Vivienne and Esther Agamah, Addi Carter, and Heath Corley; plus many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who were also very special to Sue.

She is preceded in the death by her husband of 66 years, Ferd F. Gholson; her daughter, Ginger Thomas; her sister, May Elliott; and her parents.

Memorial Service for Sue will be held at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center, KY on Saturday, August 9, 2025 with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. till service time at 12:00 p.m.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to Lovelaceville Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box, Lovelaceville KY 42060, or Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 9701 Blandville Road, West Paducah KY 42086.

08/08/2025

George (Bud) Benton passed away at his home in Kevil, KY, on Friday, August 1, 2025. He was born in Fayette County on October 19, 1943, to Emmette and Ruthie Mae (Tidwell) Benton.

George farmed most of his life in Ballard County. He was a man that would help anyone in need. George was an avid Nascar fan and enjoyed watching westerns on T.V. He could be found often working in his garden, which he loved to share the produce with others. He loved his children and grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Lourdes Oncology, where they called him " The Legend" and also Compassus Hospice for the great care that was given to their loved one.

He is survived by two sons, James Benton of Kevil, and Chris Benton (Michelle) of Kevil; a daughter, Lesley Rushing (Shawn) of Kevil; two sisters, Frances Wyma (Jimmy) of Eldridge, Alabama and Becky Coleman (Donald) of Northport, Alabama; six grandchildren, Nicole Donoho, Hunter Benton, Tiffany Benton, Teanna Hamilton, Trevon Rushing and Preston Rushing; and eight great grandchildren.

George was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Joyce; a daughter, Denise Benton; a brother, Jim Benton; and his parents.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025 after 11:00 a.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center followed by memorial service at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Neil Eidson officiating.

08/05/2025

Dr. Robert Preston Meriwether, M.D., FACS, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, at the Charter Senior Living of Paducah. He was born on February 20, 1947, in Paducah, Kentucky, and his life was a testament to unwavering dedication and service.

After graduating from Paducah Tilghman High School, Dr. Meriwether's academic prowess led him to the University of Kentucky, where he earned a Bachelors degree, laying the foundation for his illustrious medical career. Bound by a calling to heal and inspire, he went on to attend medical school at Tulane University, where he honed his remarkable skills in neurosurgery.

Dr. Meriwether's professional journey saw him as a compassionate neurosurgeon at both Western Baptist Hospital and Lourdes Hospital. Beyond his surgical contributions, Dr. Meriwether also proudly served on the Board of Trustees at the University of Kentucky, the board for the University of Kentucky Hospital, the board of Peoples Bank, as a member of the Paducah Rotary Club, and as an honorary McCracken County Deputy Sherriff. He attended First Baptist Church Paducah with his wife, Gloria.

His devotion extended into his personal life, where his love for animals, especially his beloved dogs, was unmistakable. Dr. Meriwether will be remembered for his generosity and service to others. He was a tireless worker and his dedication to the care he gave his patients was undeniable.

Dr. Meriwether is survived by his wife of 55 years, Gloria Myrick Meriwether; three daughters, Shannon Livingston of Paducah, Whitney Dowdy (Jason) of Memphis, Tennessee, and Lindsay Yeoman (Kevin) of Bluffton, South Carolina; and five grandchildren, Myrick Livingston, Wilks Livingston, Lillian Livingston, Quay Dowdy and Quin Dowdy, and his faithful companion, Newton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Pauline Meriwether.

A celebration of Dr. Meriwether’s life will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Dr. Brian Arnold officiating. Private entombment will follow at Maplelawn Park Cemetery for the family.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until the 1:00 pm service time on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donation to: University of Kentucky College of Medicine, William R. Willard Medical Education Building, MN 150, Lexington KY, 40536-0298 or Baptist Health Paducah Foundation, 2501 Kentucky Ave, Paducah, KY 42003.

08/05/2025

Sandra Joan King Cox passed away peacefully and went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Fulton Nursing and Rehabilitation.

Sandra was born on July 12, 1938, and raised in Carlisle County by her parents, Robert and Dorothy Cargill King. She was a faithful member of Eva Baptist Church in Camden, Tennessee.

Sandra was a beloved wife and mother and always did anything she could for her family. She was a lover of Gospel music and loved to hear the strum of a guitar or banjo. Sandra was an avid dancer and could always keep up with anyone on the dance floor. Sandra will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Sandra is survived by her husband of eight years, William Cox; two daughters, Rita (David) Crittendon of South Fulton, Tennessee, and Cindi (Ricky) Hamilton of Fancy Farm; seven grandchildren, Tonya Busby, Heather (Joe) Childress, Rob (Shanna) Barbee, Carrie Parrish, Matthew Parrish, Dusty Hamilton, and Andy Hamilton; 13 great grandchildren, Drake Bowen, Lukas Busby, Dayne Childress, Maci Childress, Jace Barbee, Paxton Barbee, Porter Barbee, Hayden Coleman, Jada Hendley, Averie Hendley, Henton Parrish, Ila Hamilton, and Amelia Hamilton; two great-great granddaughters, Hallie Bowen and Maisie Coleman; three sisters, Brenda (Teddy) Gholson of Mayfield, Teresa Penix of Paducah, and Juan (David) Sinclair of Murray; and a brother, Mike King of Carlisle County.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Vicki Parrish; two sons, Thomas “Lane” Clapp Jr. and Jeffery King Kimbel; a brother, Robert Kenneth King; her first husband, Thomas Lane Clapp; her second husband, Leonard Kimbel Jr; and her parents.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Arlington with Bro. Harold Draper officiating. Burial will follow at Arlington City Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM until the service hour of 2:00 PM on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Arlington.

07/31/2025

07/28/2025

Happy Heavenly Birthday to Kenny Crice!

Kenny passed away on July 20th, one week shy of his 84th birthday.

What a glorious celebration he is having with his heavenly family and friends!!

07/24/2025

Wilma Ann Page Lanier passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Paducah, KY. She was born on March 22, 1939, to Wilson E. Page and Martha Edna (Waltmon) Reeves Page.

Wilma was saved at the age of 13 and served the Lord her whole life, teaching Sunday School, Act Teens, and GA's at Antioch Baptist Church before moving her membership to Ohio Valley Baptist Church. She was an active member of the Ballard County and Purchase Area Homemakers Associations and was a 30-year member of the Slater Homemakers Club. Wilma also was involved with the Ballard County 4H program serving on the 4H Council and teaching 4H youth. She was a member of World War II War of Orphans.

She worked beside her husband for many years in their business L&L Heating and Air. In her spare time, she loved gardening in her flowers, collecting all kinds of buttons, doing crafts, and bird watching. Her greatest passion was her family.

She is survived by a daughter, Lori Lanier of Paducah; a son, Steven Louis Lanier of West Paducah; two grandchildren, Samantha Lanier of Hobe Sound, Florida and Timothy Lanier (Jennifer) of Nashville; and a brother, David Reid of Paducah.

Wilma was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Robert Lanier; a baby brother, Donald Lynn Reid; and her parents.

Visitation will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center.

Funeral services will follow at 12:00 p.m. with the Rev. Greg Jones officiating. Interment will follow at Woodville Cemetery in Kevil, Kentucky.