Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society

05/23/2026

05/22/2026

Say it ain't so!!!!!

05/22/2026

Michael Lynn Copeland, of Cairo, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and the memories of a life well lived. He was born October 1, 1962, to Wilford and Frances Lorrine Copeland.

In 2024, Michael surrendered his life to the Lord, a decision that brought him peace and strengthened the faith he carried through the remainder of his life. Michael was a hardworking man who spent time working on oil rigs in Louisiana, a place he often spoke of fondly, especially for the food and culture he enjoyed there. He was truly gifted with his hands and could fix just about anything. From small engines to heating and air work, Michael was the person family and friends could always count on when something needed repaired. He never minded helping others and took pride in a job well done.

Outside of work, Michael found joy in the simple things in life. He loved tending to his yard and garden, spending time fishing, and being outdoors surrounded by nature. He had a gentle spirit and a special connection with animals, often feeding the wild animals in his yard right out of his hand. Music was another great love of his, and he enjoyed going to concerts and making memories with family and friends.

Michael dearly loved his family. One of fifteen siblings, he shared a close bond with his brothers and sisters and treasured every moment spent with them. Though he had no children of his own, he loved his nieces and nephews deeply and treated them as his own. Above all, Michael loved his momma and his family, who meant the world to him.

Michael is survived by three brothers, David (Kathy) Copeland of Wickliffe, Anthony Copeland of Cairo, and Donald Copeland of Arlington; three sisters, Frances Kay Sutton of West Paducah, Debbie Lorrine Copeland of Benton, and Laura Stucker, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by four sisters, Anna Mae Haws, Marma Handley, Rita Faye, and Fredericka Copeland; four brothers, Jessie Copeland, Velton Copeland, James Copeland, and Ricky Copeland; and his parents,

Visitation will be held at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the service time of 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery.

05/22/2026

Kathy Garland Perry, of Cunningham, Kentucky, passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by the ones she loved. She was born October 23, 1954, to Wayne and Mary Louise Polivick Garland.

Kathy was the heart of her family and a truly great mother, always nurturing and encouraging her children. Kathy had a passion for homemaking; she loved baking, canning, cooking, sewing, and even woodworking. She found joy in every moment spent outside, whether walking around the neighborhood or tending her garden.

Kathy shared an extraordinary love story with her husband; they were inseparable soulmates and best friends for 49 years. Their love began with a chance encounter when he pulled her over and gave her a ticket, only to ask her out and begin a lifetime together. Her kindness touched everyone; she gave selflessly, even walking the neighborhood collecting cans to donate to children in need. She was a faithful member of Rickman Road Missionary Baptist Church, where she loved God, her friends, and her church family. Above all, Kathy adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, loving them with all of her heart. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and kindness will forever be cherished by all who loved her.

Kathy is survived by her husband of 49 years, Steve Perry; two sons, Eric (Morgan) Perry of Bardwell and Stevie (Chasity) Perry of Bardwell; three brothers, Jerry Garland of Clinton, Louis Garland of Camby, Indiana, and Johnny (Cherie) Garland of Whiteland, Indiana; seven grandchildren, Makayla (Gannon) Stacy, Caleb (Summer Perry), Ethan (Ella) Perry, Brayden Moss, Abigail Perry, Emmaline Perry, and Amelia Perry; and three great-grandchildren, Khloe Stacy, Piper Stacy, and Luke Perry.

She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Josie Gray, and her parents

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026, 12:00 p.m., at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell with Bro. Stan Durrett officiating. Burial will follow at Cunningham Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will also be held on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the service time of 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations in Kathy’s sons’ honor to the Bardwell VFW, P0 Box 10, Bardwell Kentucky, 42023.

05/22/2026

Sarah Beth Lee, of Cunningham, went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in Bardwell, surrounded by the love of family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Born on September 8, 1972, in Paducah, Kentucky, at Western Baptist Hospital, Sarah was the beloved daughter of Robert Edward Lee and Linda Evelyn Lee. A lifelong resident of Cunningham, Sarah carried with her the warmth, kindness, and small-town spirit that made her deeply loved by all who knew her.

Sarah was a proud graduate of the Carlisle County High School Class of 1990. Following graduation, she built a long and successful career in restaurant management, where her radiant smile, compassionate heart, and dedication to serving others made a lasting impact on coworkers, customers, and countless friends throughout the community. She had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued.

Above all else, Sarah was a woman of deep faith and unwavering love for her family. She was a devoted member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, where she faithfully served in many volunteer roles over the years. Most recently, she found great joy in teaching adult women’s Sunday School, encouraging others through her compassion and steadfast belief in God’s grace. Her church family meant the world to her, and her life reflected the kindness and servant’s heart she carried each day.

Sarah treasured time spent with those she loved the most. Whether gathered with family, sharing laughter with friends, reading a good book, or writing creatively in her spare time, she found beauty in life’s simple moments. She had a gentle spirit, a caring heart, and a way of bringing comfort and encouragement to those around her. Her love, faith, humor, and strength will be remembered always.

Sarah is survived by her son, Ethan Robert; her loving mother, Linda Lee; two brothers, Michael (Misty) Lee and Jeremy (Meghan) Lee, both of Paducah; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends whom she loved deeply.

In addition to her father, Robert Edward Lee, Sarah was preceded in death by her older brother, David Brent Lee (Terris).

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Cunningham, with Bro. Tim Harvey officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Cunningham.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the service time of 1:00 p.m. at Bethlehem Baptist Church. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Sarah’s life, to honor her memory, and to worship the Lord together.

Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell is in charge of arrangements.

05/20/2026

Fort Jefferson Patriot Grave Marking to Honor Early Frontier Settlers

By: Laurna Todd, KPI Writer

The public is invited to attend the 3rd Annual Sons of the American Revolution Patriot Grave Marking ceremony on Saturday, June 6, at 2 p.m. at Fort Jefferson Memorial Park, located one mile south of Wickliffe.

The annual event honors the memory of the 63 men, women and children who died at Fort Jefferson between 1780 and 1781 during one of Kentucky’s earliest frontier settlements. Organizers will recognize five additional patriots this year as part of the ongoing effort to preserve and share the history of the fort and those who lived there.

Fort Jefferson holds a unique place in Kentucky history as the only frontier fortification and settlement established in the state through legislative action by Virginia. The site served as an important military outpost and settlement during the Revolutionary War era.

Dr. Ken Carstens, Fort Jefferson researcher, said the annual memorial serves as an important reminder of the role Fort Jefferson played in the nation’s earliest history. He noted the fort and civilian settlement of Clarksville, established April 19, 1780, represented the first and only Virginia-authorized settlement in what would later become Kentucky.

Carstens explained that Fort Jefferson and Clarksville were once home to more than 550 settlers, soldiers, enslaved individuals and Native American allies, making it the largest settlement in Kentucky at the time. He said the community played a major role in frontier military efforts during the American Revolution, serving as General George Rogers Clark’s headquarters in the western campaign.

“Fort Jefferson and Clarksville represent this Nation’s very beginning; our ancestors’ blood was spilled here,” Carstens said, emphasizing the importance of continuing to honor the patriots connected to the site.

The ceremony will feature a musket firing demonstration, parade of flags, patriotic singing and brief historical presentations honoring the sacrifices of the region’s frontier forefathers and foremothers. Organizers say the event is designed to educate the public while celebrating the courage and perseverance of America’s early settlers.

Carstens said younger generations attending the event will have the opportunity to experience living history through historical flags, military commands, musket demonstrations and conversations with descendants of those connected to Fort Jefferson and Clarksville. He said organizers hope visitors leave with a greater appreciation for the sacrifices made during America’s fight for independence.

Sponsors for the free community event include the Colonel Stephen Trigg and Captain Virgil McCracken chapters of the Sons of the American Revolution, the Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society, and the City of Wickliffe.

Before the ceremony, the Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society will open at 11 a.m. for visitors wishing to tour the facility and explore the Fort Jefferson Reading and Research Room, which houses one of the largest collections of historic documents related to the American Revolution in the western frontier.

Organizers encourage residents and visitors alike to attend and help celebrate America’s 250th anniversary while honoring the legacy of the pioneers connected to Fort Jefferson.

05/20/2026

Brenda McManus Webb, of La Center, Kentucky, passed away on May 13, 2026, at Life Care Center of La Center. She was born on June 2, 1944, to Mose Lee McManus and Ora Lee Garnett.

For 26 years, Brenda was a familiar and friendly face as manager of the Mayfield Dairy Queen, where she became known throughout the community for her warm smile, hardworking spirit, and caring heart. So many people knew Brenda from her years there, and she treasured the friendships she made along the way.

Brenda had a special gift for fixing hair and enjoyed helping others feel beautiful and cared for. Though she never had children of her own, she poured endless love into the lives of her two nieces and nephew, treating and spoiling them as if they were her own children. They were truly the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

A member of Lone Oak First Baptist Church, Brenda loved her church family and valued the comfort and strength of her faith. Above all else, she loved spending time with her family, making memories that will forever be held close by those who loved her most.

Brenda is survived by her sister, Shirley (James) Gott of Lone Oak; two nieces and one nephew; four great nephews and one great niece; 1 great-great nephew and two great-great nieces; and several cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

There are no services scheduled at this time. Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Lone Oak are in charge of arrangements.

05/20/2026

Babe Beardsley Austin, of Wickliffe, Kentucky, passed away on May 12, 2026, at Life Care Center of La Center. Babe was born on December 17, 1931, to Arthur and Gertie Beardsley.

Babe, of Baptist faith, was a strong, loving, and independent woman whose family meant everything to her. She was a wonderful mother who cared deeply for those she loved and enjoyed spending time visiting with family and friends. Babe was social, straightforward, and never afraid to speak her mind, yet her honesty was part of what made her so special to the people around her. She lived life in her own way, with strength, determination, and a heart that touched many.

Before her time at Life Care Center of La Center, Babe found joy in gardening, traveling, and caring for the farm she owned. She took pride in working the land and once raised livestock, embracing the hard work and simple pleasures of country life. Whether tending her garden, working outdoors, or spending time with others, she carried herself with independence and determination.

Babe is survived by her two sons, Larry (Connie) Austin of Alta Mount, Missouri, and Brad Austin of Lacey, Washington; one sister, Darlene (Roger) McIntire of Illinois; a brother, Coy Beardsley of Wickliffe; one grandchild; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Austin; six sisters; two brothers; and her parents.

A Memorial Service will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe, with Dee Hazelwood officiating.

Visitation will take place from 5:00 p.m. until the service time of 6:30 p.m. also on Friday at the funeral home.

05/20/2026

Denise Kay (Foster) Chenoweth, of Kevil, KY, passed away on May 15, 2026. Born in Galesburg, IL on January 14, 1955, Denise dedicated her life to family, faith, and service for others.

A Registered Nurse for 34 years at Illini Hospital in Silvis, IL, Denise cared for countless patients with the same kindness and quiet strength that defined her life. Deeply faithful and devoted to Jesus, she was known for putting others before herself and for the gentle warmth she brought into every room.

An avid gardener, devoted horsewoman, and tough cowgirl, Denise also cherished her Vizslas and the time she spent outdoors. Her steady faith, kindness, and laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Denise’s great love and passion was her family.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Ron Chenoweth (Kevil); her son, Jeremy Chenoweth (Murray) and daughter-in-law, Cerissa; her daughter, Casey Jackson (College Grove, TN) and son-in-law Mike; her son, Colton Chenoweth (Eldridge, IA) and daughter-in-law Breyana; her grandchildren, Emily, Kylie, Carter, Jacob, Calvin, Wyatt, and Bradley; her great-grandsons, Colson and Grayson; her mom, Joan Foster (Galesburg, IL); and her sister, Connie Clague (Galesburg, IL).

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, after 10am at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center followed by memorial service at 1pm with Rev. Jared Hayes officiating.

Interment will follow at Newton Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

05/20/2026

Westen Lane Andrews, of Kevil, passed away on May 15, 2026 at St Jude Children’s Research Hospital after a 3 1/2 year battle with cancer. He was born December 18, 2017, to Wesley Lane Andrews and Kaneesha Willie.

He was loved and cared for by his “Gammie”, Daddy and Mommy, and brothers and Uncles. Westen will always be the sweetest child that loved with all his heart. He was an exceptionally talented artist and loved to play Roblox and Minecraft. How to train your dragon with the night fury was his absolute favorite and he was riding his “toothless” dragon on the way to Heaven with Jesus by his side.

Loved by his Ballard County community and school, he will be truly missed by all. He is and always will be the strong resilient child we fell in love with. “We are all travelers in this world. From the sweet grass to the packing house, birth ‘til death. We travel between the eternities.”

We loved him for a short time and he suffers no more. Praise God In Jesus name. We love you, Westen, and we will see you again!

Westen is survived by his parents; two brothers, Wylder Andrews and Waylon Andrews; his paternal grandmother, Kimberly Renee Andrews of Kevil; and his maternal grandparents, Jeaneete Hill and Donell Harris.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Ronald G. Andrews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, after 11:00 a.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center followed by memorial service at 1:00 p.m. with Brother Letoun Bledsoe officiating. Interment will follow in La Center Cemetery.

05/20/2026

James Thomas Oliver passed away at his home in Bandana, Kentucky on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Born September 10, 1961, he was the son of Cicle Frank and Lydia A. Arvelo Oliver.

James worked as a mechanical operator for Credence Speakers and later for Tyler Mountain Water. He loved music and had a knack for anything involving computers and technology. Recently saved, he was joyfully living his life for the Lord.

He is survived by his sisters, Arline Slyder of Mesa, AZ, Vicky Hickox (Tim) of Casa Grande, AZ, and Diane Butler (Paul) of Barlow, KY; and his brother, David Oliver (Laura) of Sun City, AZ.

He was preceded in death by his son, Toby Oliver, and his parents.

No services are planned at this time. Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center, KY is handling arrangements.