Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society

11/23/2025

11/19/2025

Huellen Terry Edwards, of Bardwell, Kentucky, passed away on November 18, 2025, at her residence. She was born in Bardwell on February 15, 1931, to William and Pearl Terry.

Huellen was a devoted Christian woman and a member of the Bethlehem Baptist Church. Her steadfast belief in the Lord guided every part of her life, and in her last few days, she asked her family, “Are you saved and will I see you again?”

Huellen dedicated many years of service as the Food Service Director for Carlisle County Schools, where she cared deeply for the students and staff she served. Her work was more than a job-it was a part of her ministry, and she poured her heart into ensuring others were cared for. She cherished her family above all, and her loyal dog, Sadie, was her constant companion and best friend. Fridays were reserved for her weekly outing to the beauty shop, a tradition she always looked forward to. Huellen also loved basketball and was an enthusiastic fan of her Kentucky Wildcats. She also loved the St. Louis Cardinals-especially when they were playing well.

Huellen will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her kindness, and the warmth she brought into the lives of everyone who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the blessing of crossing her path.

Huellen is survived by her best friend and dog, Sadie; children, Tamara (Rod) Collard of Murphysboro, Illinois, and Dwayne (Barb) Edwards of Bardwell; one sister, Nancy Poole of South Fulton, Tennessee; four grandchildren, Treva (James) Cobb of Paducah, Kentucky, Cassie (Michael) Nichols of Bardwell, Lindsey (Adam) Moore of Carterville, Illinois, and Morgan (John) Rathjen of Murphysboro, Illinois; eight great grandchildren, Shelton West, Shively Jones, Mason Jones, Chloe Nichols, Chase Nichols, Deacon Rathjen, Baylor Rathjen, and Re*****on Elle Moore; one great-great grandchild, Kain West; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, TC Edwards; two sisters, Ethel Sims and Mary Beth Bishop; three brothers, Hazel Terry, GH Terry, and Johnny Wayne Terry; and her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Cunningham, Kentucky, with Bro. Tim Harvey officiating. Burial will follow at Zoar Cemetery in Cunningham, Kentucky.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the service time of 1:00 p.m. also on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the church.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Church, PO Box 468, Cunningham, KY, 42035 or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704. Hagerstown, MD 21741.

11/16/2025

Betty Lou Shelby Jerrell, of Kevil, Kentucky, left her earthly home for her heavenly home on Friday, November 14, 2025. She was born March 26, 1935, in the Kevil area of Ballard County to Terry and Eileen Hook Shelby.

Betty was a long-time employee of the Kevil Bank and began her career there when she was in high school. She continued to work there part-time through the years until returning to full-time in 1977 in the loan department. She became Vice President in the early 1990s and continued in that capacity until she retired in June 2013, when the Kevil Bank was sold. She and her husband, Hugh, were involved in the harness horse industry for many years, where Hugh owned, trained, and drove harness horses. They and their children would spend each summer living in the Louisville and Lexington area, racing, and return home each fall to train on their farm in Kevil.

Betty was an accomplished pianist and organist and began playing at the Kevil Methodist Church when she was in her early teens. She has continued to play the organ there until early October of this year. Through the years, she played for many weddings, funerals, and occasions in the area. She was a lifelong, devoted member of the Kevil United Methodist Church and also a 40-year member of the Ballard County Homemakers and Kevil Junior Homemakers Club. She was also a volunteer for Ballard County 4H over the past years. Most of all, she was a devoted and loving Mother and Grandmother, “Maw Betty” to her children, grandchildren, and many others.

She is survived by her daughter, Joni Jordan of Kevil; son, Randal (Paula) Jerrell of Kevil; Grandsons, Jeremy (Ashlee) Jordan of Kevil, and Clayton (Carli) Jerrell of Newburgh, Indiana; great-grandsons, Nash Jordan and Wyatt Jerrell; great-granddaughters, Savannah and Emma Henderson; and sister, Ruth Bowles.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Hugh Thomas (HT) Jerrell; son-in-law, Mark Edward Jordan; and a sister, Ann Trent.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Pastor Cindy Engelhardt officiating. Burial will follow at Woodville Cemetery.

Visitation will also be held from 10:00 am until the service time of 1:00 pm on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Woodville Cemetery Fund, c/o Pat Sullivan, 1031 New Liberty Church Rd, Kevil KY 42053.

11/16/2025

At the age of 70, Allen Damron passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by the family he cherished. He was born March 6, 1955, to A.E. and Ann Leible Damron.

Allen was a man of deep and steadfast faith. He did not merely know the principles of a Christian life - he lived them every day. He was caring, giving, loving, and always willing to step forward when others were in need. "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven." (Matthew 5:16, NIV)

When the devasting 2009 ice storm struck Ballard County, Allen was out in the snow and ice clearing driveways, retrieving fuel from Damron Oasis so neighbors could keep warm, and delivering generators to elderly members of the community. No task was too great, no need too small. If Allen could help, he would.

For 42 years, Allen owned and operated Damron TV and Appliance, serving his community with honesty and dedication. He faithfully served in his church and as a director of Green Wing and Ducks Unlimited, where he taught young people about gun safety, conservation, and the value of responsible stewardship - lessons rooted in respect for God's creation.

An avid outdoorsman, Allen found joy and peace in the world God placed around him. He was a hunter, a fisherman, and a golfer. These passions were not only hobbies but avenues for passing down wisdom about responsibility, trustworthiness, and gratitude for God's handiwork. Allen and Paula shared a love that was steadfast and tender. Married on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii, they built a life marked by companionship, laughter, and devotion. They golfed together, rode through the river bottoms together, and sometimes even hunted together. But their most treasured ritual was their quiet mornings sitting side by side in their bay window, overlooking the pond, watching for geese, and doing their daily devotions together.

Allen was hardworking, God - loving, and family – centered, a man who embraced life fully and never shied away from helping others. He left this world with love in his heart and joy in his spirit, confident in the promise of eternal life.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but we rejoice in knowing this is not goodbye. We will see him again in Heaven.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 37 years, Paula Damron; his son, Greg Damron and daughter-in-law, Anna, of Barlow; his daughter, Mieghan Damron of Mt. Vernon, IL; his grandchildren, Korbyn and Kai Walker of Mt. Vernon, and Larry Damron of Barlow; his great-grandchildren Wade and Lydia Walker of Mt. Vernon; his brothers, Gary (Shari) Damron of La Center, Gene (Annette) Damron of Kevil, and David Damron of La Center; along with many nieces, nephews and his beloved church family at Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Allen was preceded in death by his parents, A.E. and Ann Leible Damron.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, after 10:00 a.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center followed by funeral service at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Drew Gray officiating.

Interment will follow in St. Mary's Catholic Church Cemetery.

11/10/2025

Robert Charles Wray, known as Robbie to his loved ones, passed away on November 7, 2025, in Paducah, Kentucky. Born on January 27, 1999, Robbie lived 26 years full of energy, kindness, and laughter.

Robbie was a talented concrete finisher and a skilled mechanic. He could fix just about anything, and people trusted him for his hard work and know-how. Whether it was a building or an engine, Robbie gave it his best.

He loved being active and outdoors. As a kid, he enjoyed baseball and riding dirt bikes. Later, his love for loud trucks became part of who he was-bold and full of life.

Music came naturally to Robbie. He could pick up a guitar, play a tune, and sing along, always bringing joy to those around him. While living in Franklin, Kentucky, he was the lead guitarist during worship at the church he attended. He also had a great sense of humor and loved teasing friends and family in a way that made everyone laugh.

Robbie will be remembered for his big heart, his many talents, and the way he made life brighter for others. His spirit lives on in the stories, smiles, and memories shared by those who knew and loved him.

Robbie is survived by his mother, Christine “Chris” Rowe (Wayne) of Fancy Farm; father, Chuck Wray of Kevil; one son, Colton Wray of Florida; one brother, Tyler Smith of Paducah; one niece, Claire Smith of Paducah; maternal grandmother, Peggy Smith of Boaz; paternal grandparents, Kenneth and Bobbie Wray of Kevil; and several aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Charles “Charlie” Smith.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 1:00 p.m., at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Pastor Boogie Butler officiating. Burial will follow the service at New Liberty Cemetery.

Visitation will also be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105 or The Gideons International, PO Box 140800, Nashville TN 37214.

11/07/2025

Omega Qualls Bickford, of La Center, passed away to her heavenly home surrounded by her loved ones on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. She was born on May 29, 1954, in Gibson County, Tennessee to Esco Vincent and Noner May Qualls.

Omega was a devoted Christian who loved serving Gods people. She obtained her associate's degree in ministry and alongside her husband they served in ministry for 47 years. Operation Christmas Child was her favorite ministry team to serve on and looked forward to it every year. Omega loved their church family, and they all loved her, as they called her Meme. Those who knew Omega loved her and would say she was the most selfless women with a servant's heart.

Outside of church, her family was her biggest pride and joy. She loved following and cheering for the McCracken County Lady Mustangs Basketball team, where one of her own granddaughters, Lexi, is on the coaching staff. Omega was an encourager by heart. She owned her own painting business for many years and in her spare time, she enjoyed quilting and had previously made quilts for all of her children and grandchildren.

Omega is survived by her husband of 56 years, Robert Bickford of La Center; two sons, Dale Bickford and Wes Bickford, both of Paducah; one daughter, Heather Rudy (Matt) of Paducah; one brother, Lyndale Qualls (Kay Rene) of Heppner, Oregon; one sister-in-law, Gail Qualls of Kenton, TN; and six grandchildren, David Llewellyn, Lexi Rudy, Ashton Kelly (Conner), Alec Rudy, Jack Bickford and Marleigh Bickford.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Stanley Qualls, and her parents.

Visitation Services will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Morrow Funeral Chapel of La Center beginning at 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Visitation will also be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, 9:00 a.m. until funeral time of 1:00 p.m., with Larry Powell officiating.
Interment will follow at Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery.

In memory of Omega, memorial contributions can be made to Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Teddy Powell, 1014 Powell Road, La Center KY 42056.

11/07/2025

Bonita Medlin Smith, of La Center, passed away on November 5, 2025, at Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, KY. She was born on November 3, 1951, in Jackson, Michigan to Bob and Leda Barrow Medlin.

Bonita was a member of General Baptist Church in Barlow, Kentucky. She had worked at Credence Speakers, Walmart, and Dollar General. Bonita loved to do crossword puzzles, word searches, and was an avid reader all of her life. Her family was her pride and joy, and she enjoyed spending time with them any opportunity she got. If you knew her, you loved her.

She is survived by her husband of 18 years, Homer Smith of La Center; four daughters, Wanda Smith (Paul Griffin) of La Center, Dawn Mays of Barlow, Tina Barnhill of Barlow, and Angela Pratt (Jeff) of La Center; four step-daughters, Shanika Smith, Beverly Smith, Brandie Smith, and Trameca Anderson, all of Paducah; one step-son, Roman Anderson of Missouri; God-son Wade Wilcox of Kevil; one sister, Carolyn Medlin of Barlow; one brother George Medlin of Metropolis, Illinois; twenty eight grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation Services will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Morrow Funeral Chapel beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Dudley Hamilton officiating. Interment will follow in La Center Cemetery.

11/06/2025

Charlotte Jean Sullivan Fraser, beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Life Care Center of La Center at the age of 84. She was born on March 5, 1941, to Eurbin and Sarah Stovall Sullivan.

Charlotte dedicated many years at Westvaco Timberlands, where she was privileged to be able to work with her father, and later worked alongside her daughter, Makayla, at Cobwebs Cleaning Service.

As a charter member of Victory Baptist Church in Wickliffe, Charlotte’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She lovingly served as a Sunday School teacher, organist, pianist, and soloist, and she was also known for her culinary talents, always ready to serve others with warmth and generosity.

Charlotte’s dedication to her family, especially her beloved husband, Joe, was evident in everything she did. She had a zest for life, enjoying entertaining, dressing well, and had a special love for shoes. Her passions also included yard work, gardening, hunting, and fishing, as well as the show Walker, Texas Ranger, and gospel music.

Charlotte was truly beautiful inside and out, with a wonderful spirit and a friendliness that made everyone feel welcome. While at times she could be described as a spitfire, she also never met a stranger and leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness.

Charlotte is survived by her two daughters, Deborah Allen (Johnny) of Samburg, Tennessee and Makayla Latta (Bro. Butch Latta) of Kevil; her son, Kyle Mark Fraser (Roslyn) of Wickliffe; nine grandchildren, Jesse Dale Cain, Jill Hayden (Bro. Eric Hayden), Jason Cain (Bethany), Matthew Summers (Tara), Sarah Jo Summers, Brooke Summers, Derek Fraser, Pearl Fraser and Sunni Fraser; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Boyd Fraser; one sister, Eurbaleen Davenport; one brother, Colie Sullivan; and her parents.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 6, 2025, 2:00 pm, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe with Bro. Butch Latta, Bro. Eric Hayden, and Bro. Daniel Fraser officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Wickliffe.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until the 2:00 pm service time also on Thursday, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donation to Victory Baptist Church, 2456 Mayfield Road, Wickliffe KY 42087 or American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown MD 21741.

11/02/2025

Executive order directs funds to Feeding Kentucky’s food bank network

11/02/2025

MEMORIAL FOR B-29 CRASH IN WESTERN KENTUCKY 80 YEARS AGO.

10/31/2025

Russ Lee Laird, of Bardwell, passed away on October 30, 2025, at Baptist Health Paducah. Russ was born on August 21, 1953, in Oak Lawn, Illinois, to the late Elmer and Hazel Laird.

Russ was a devoted family man and a man of many trades—there wasn’t much he couldn’t do. He wore many hats during his 72 years earthside, but his favorite roles were husband, father, and “Papa.” He enjoyed spending time with family, riding motorcycles, fishing, and the company of his beloved cat, Tigg.

Russ is survived by his wife of 47 years, Donna Laird; his children, Jason (Michelle) Laird of Sheridan, Wyoming, and Caitlin (Ben) O’Connor of Cunningham; seven grandchildren, Israel Laird, Sydney Laird, Ethan Walker, Hannah Walker, all of Sheridan, and Chase Murphy, Abbie Laird, and Aiyden Lynn of Cunningham. He is also survived by three brothers, Chuck Laird and Jim Laird of Arizona, and Milton Laird of Tennessee; along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Hazel Laird, and three brothers.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, 1:00 p.m., at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell with Jonathan Lemons and Bro. Jim Boaz officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery in Bardwell.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the service time of 1:00 p.m. also on Tuesday, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Heart Savers, PO Box 78, Bardwell KY 42023.