Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society

Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society Dedicated to keeping the history of Ballard and Carlisle Counties available for future generations.

08/31/2026

Kent Bohanon, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on August 29, 2026. He was born on May 7, 1980 to John Bohanon and Carolyn Deason.

Kent lived his life with an extraordinary love for his family, an unwavering loyalty to his friends, and a genuine desire to make life better for the people around him. To know Kent was to know someone who loved deeply, gave generously, laughed loudly, and showed up-again and again-for the people who mattered to him. He was the kind of person whose presence filled a room, whose friendship could always be counted on, and whose absence will be felt more deeply than words can express.

Kent was a 1998 graduate of St. Mary’s High School and went on to graduate from Murray State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology and a Master of Business Administration. He was the proud owner of Kent Bohanon State Farm Agency, where he earned the professional designations of Chartered Financial Consultant and Retirement Income Professional. Kent took great pride in his career, but even more importantly, he cared deeply about the people he served and the relationships he built along the way.

One of the most meaningful parts of Kent’s professional life was his involvement with his State Farm DHC study group. What began as a group of colleagues grew over the years into something far more important-a brotherhood and a second family. These men walked beside Kent through multiple seasons of life, offering encouragement, guidance, accountability, laughter, friendship, and unwavering support. They were there for the professional challenges and successes, but their bond reached far beyond work. They supported Kent throughout his personal and spiritual journey as well, and he valued their friendship above all else. Kent genuinely looked forward to their meetings, conversations, shared experiences, and time of fellowship. He treasured the trust they shared and the ability to learn from one another, laugh together, challenge one another, and simply do life together. To Kent, the DHC was never just a professional group. These men had become family, and their friendship held a very special place in his heart.

Kent was a member of Lone Oak First Baptist Church, where his faith was reflected not only in his involvement with the church, but in the way he lived his life. Kent had a servant’s heart and freely gave his time and energy to others. Whether volunteering at church, coaching soccer and basketball through Upward, helping a friend, supporting a family member, or simply seeing a need and stepping in to meet it, Kent was always willing to help. For him, caring for others was not something he talked about-it was simply who he was.

Kent’s Wednesday morning Bible study group became an especially meaningful part of his faith journey. Kent thrived on the encouragement, friendship, and fellowship he found among these men. Their weekly time together strengthened his walk with Christ and gave him a place to grow in his faith alongside friends he deeply respected and cared for. Kent treasured those Wednesday mornings-the conversations, the prayers, the laughter, the honest discussions, and the opportunity to encourage and be encouraged by others. Those friendships were his rock and became another source of strength, accountability, and love in his life.

Above everything else, Kent loved his family.

His greatest joy and proudest accomplishment in life was being a father to Jayce and Reese. There was nothing he loved more than being their dad. He cherished the ordinary moments with them just as much as the milestones-the conversations, the laughter, the family trips, the practices, the games, and all the time spent together.

Kent rarely missed an opportunity to be there for his children. He loved sitting in the stands, cheering them on, encouraging them, coaching them, and watching them grow into the people they are today. He was endlessly proud of Jayce and Reese-not simply for what they accomplished, but for who they were. Their interests became his interests, their successes brought him tremendous joy, and their happiness mattered to him more than anything in the world. He believed in them completely and loved them beyond measure. Being their father was the role he treasured most.

Kent shared 20 years of marriage with his loving wife, Tracy. Together they built a life centered around their family, their children, their friends, and countless memories that will forever be treasured. Kent and Tracy truly were an unstoppable team-partners in every sense of the word. They shared a love of travel, adventure, and new experiences, always looking forward to the next place they would go, the next memory they would make, and the next story they would have to tell. Whether exploring somewhere new or simply navigating the everyday joys and challenges of life, they did it side by side. They built a beautiful life together, one filled with laughter, friendship, family, adventure, and a love that grew deeper through every season.

Kent also had an incredible gift for bringing people together. Kent was fiercely loyal to those he loved. Family and friends knew he was in their corner. He was dependable, protective, generous, and always willing to lend a hand, offer advice, share a meal, make you laugh, or simply be there when you needed him. He loved cooking and took great pride in preparing meals for the people he cared about. For Kent, food was another way of showing love. He enjoyed entertaining friends and family, gathering people around a table, playing music, telling stories, laughing, and making sure everyone was having a good time.

Music was a constant source of enjoyment for Kent, and his charismatic and outgoing personality made him unforgettable. He truly was the life of the party. His laugh, his sense of humor, his stories, his larger-than-life personality, and the way he could make people feel welcome will be remembered by so many.

But beneath that outgoing personality was an incredibly caring and sentimental heart. Kent loved his people fiercely. He valued lifelong friendships, treasured his family, and never hesitated to tell others how proud he was of the people he loved. His loyalty was unwavering, his generosity came naturally, and there was very little he would not do for someone he cared about.

Kent leaves behind a life that cannot be measured simply by years, professional accomplishments, or titles. His legacy is found in the people he loved, the friendships he nurtured, the children he adored, the lives he touched, the laughter he created, and the countless memories that will continue to be shared for years to come.

He will be remembered as an extraordinary father, a loving husband and family man, a devoted son and brother, a loyal friend, and a person who made life brighter and more fun simply by being part of it.

Those who loved Kent would give anything for more time-one more conversation, one more meal around the table, one more game together, one more song, one more laugh. His loss leaves an immeasurable hole in the hearts of his family and friends, but the love he gave so freely throughout his life will remain with them forever.

Kent was deeply loved. He will be profoundly missed. And he will never, ever be forgotten.

Kent is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Tracy Perkinson Bohanon; his beloved children, Jayce and Reese Bohanon; his parents, John (Brenda) Bohanon and Carolyn Bohanon; his sister, Laura (Todd) Duff of Paducah; and his father- and mother-in-law, Greg and Phyllis Perkinson, along with many extended family members and dear friends who loved him deeply.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.’”
- John 11:25-26

A memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at Heartland Church with Dr. Scott Thomas officiating.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until the 6:00 pm service time on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at Heartland Church.

08/28/2026

Kelly Wilkins passed away on August 26, 2026, at his residence in Bandana, Kentucky.

Born on August 20, 1954, in Benton, Kentucky, to William J. Wilkins and Emma Jean Thompson Wilkins, Kelly lived a life marked by courage, passion, and an adventurous spirit that touched everyone who knew him. He carried himself with quiet strength and a steady kindness, and he was the kind of man who could be counted on in both ordinary moments and times of need. Those who loved him will remember his warm presence, his strong work ethic, and the deep devotion he showed to his family, friends, church, and community.

Kelly retired from the Paducah City School System, where he served faithfully as a custodian. He took pride in his work and understood the value of serving others with humility and consistency. His years in the school system reflected the dependable character for which he was known. He attended the Bandana Community Church, where his faith and fellowship were an important part of his life. In addition, he was a member and past Master of the Grahamville Masonic Lodge #707 F&AM, an association that reflected his commitment to brotherhood, service, and tradition.

Kelly was especially well known for his love of sports and his dedication to young people. He was one of the first organizers of Fast Pitch Softball at Paducah Tilghman High School and served as assistant coach from 1996 to 2000. He was also an assistant coach for Travel Ball for various teams for several years, sharing his knowledge, encouragement, and enthusiasm with countless players. He believed in hard work, teamwork, and the value of helping young athletes grow both on and off the field. His influence reached far beyond the scoreboard, and many will remember him as a coach who cared deeply and led by example.

He also enjoyed volunteering with 4-H in the Kentucky State Horse Show alongside his daughter, an experience that reflected both his love for family and his willingness to give his time to meaningful causes. Kelly found joy in being involved, in supporting others, and in creating memories that would last long after the events themselves had ended. His life was enriched by the many roles he embraced, and he approached each one with dedication and heart.

He was a proud husband, father, and grandfather, and his family was the center of his world. The love he gave them was steady and enduring, and the memories they shared will remain a lasting source of comfort and strength.

Kelly is survived by his wife of 50 years, Debbie Creason Wilkins; his daughters, Ashley Zortman (Gary) of Louisville, and Sarah Smith (Matthew) of Symsonia, Kentucky; and his three grandchildren, Hailey Zortman, Bailey Smith, and Lainey Smith.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Cooper Smith, and his parents. Their memory remained an important part of his life, and he carried their influence with him throughout the years.

Kelly will be remembered for his steadfast nature, his generous spirit, and the many ways he served others throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, leadership, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Visitation will be held Saturday, August 29, 2026, starting at 11am, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

Funeral services with Masonic Rites will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Curtis Creason and Rev. Wesley Peeler officiating. Burial will follow at Harmony Cemetery.

08/28/2026

Charles Ray Redden, of Wickliffe, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. He was born March 26, 1941, in Berkley, Kentucky, to Charles Burnley Redden and Rachael Holder Redden.

Charles proudly served his country as an Army veteran of the Vietnam War, and his service remained one of the great honors of his life. Upon returning home, he spent many years as a riverboat captain, later worked in the railroad shop, and finished his career at the Ballard County Jail. He also served as Chief of the Blandville Rural Fire Department, giving much of his life to the safety and service of his community.

He was a member of Shady Grove Baptist Church.

He and his wife, Fredia Redden, shared 56 years of marriage before her passing.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Fredia; his sisters, Norma Jean Redden Weatherford and Donna Jane Redden; and his parents;

Charles is survived by his daughter, Debbie Underwood; his son, Jeffery Redden; his granddaughter, Lindsey Charles Bodell; his grandson, Layne Redden; his great-granddaughter, Charlee Shea Bodell; his brother, Tommy Redden of Fulton, Tennessee; and his parents.

A funeral service will be held Friday, August 28, 2026, 1:00 PM, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe with Bro. Zeke Hobbs officiating. A private burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery.

Visitation will also be held on Friday, 11:00 AM until the service hour of 1:00 PM, at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be made in the form of contributions to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105, or Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 2251 Blandville Rd, Wickliffe KY 42087.

08/28/2026

Belinda Wilson Turner, of Bardwell, died Friday night at Countryside Health Care in Bardwell. She was born June 23, 1932, daughter of Otis J. Wilson and Beatrice (Hobbs) Wilson.

The oldest member of St. Charles Catholic Church, she was a seamstress for many years. She also worked at Calloway Senior Citizens and Carlisle County Senior Citizens.

She is survived by a daughter, Carolyn (Phillip) Dowdy of Bardwell; two granddaughters, Sandra Dowdy of Bardwell and Sheila Dowdy (Taylor Reynolds) of Las Vegas, Nevada; six great-grandchildren, Thomas Dowdy of Bardwell, Jake Beasley of Bardwell, Keegan (Lee) Beasley of Paducah, Debra (Jackson) Sanderson of Paducah, Dakota (Cat) Reynolds of Hickory, and Jamie (Joseph) Marlar of Martin, Tennessee; and eight great-great-grandchildren: Athena Ridemour, Chandler Reynolds, Easton Beasley, Elizabeth Hutson, Ava Malar, Ada Marlar, Joseph Jr. Marlar, and Ana Marlar.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Loyd Turner; a son, David Turner; five brothers, William Joe Wilson, Albert Wilson, Tom Wilson, John Otis Wilson, and James E. Wilson; a sister, Iva Johnson; a grandson-in-law, Dennis Hodges; and her parents.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at St. Charles Catholic Church in Bardwell, Kentucky, with Rev. Sinoj Pynadath HGN officiating. Burial will follow at St. Charles Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM until the service hour of 1:00 PM on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at St. Charles Catholic Church.

Expressions of sympathy may be made in the form of contributions to the St. Charles Catholic Church Building Fund, 6922 KY 408, Bardwell KY 42023.

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

08/20/2026

Charles “Charlie” Lynn Doublin, of West Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on August 15, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. Born November 18, 1964, in Seattle, Washington, Charlie was the son of Jimmie Lucian Doublin and Edith Ursula Doublin.

Charlie worked alongside his father at J.L. Sand & Gravel in Wickliffe, Kentucky. Later, together with his wife, Amanda, they owned and operated A & C Trucking in West Paducah. He was a member of the Local 181 Union and also a proud veteran of the United States Army.

In recent years, Charlie could often be found at D.K. Vance's shop or finding something that needed doing at his daughter Lynde's farm. He loved getting on the tractor, weed-eating, and tackling odd jobs. If something was broken, there was a good chance he could fix it-or, at the very least, take it apart and find out why it was broken.

Charlie was a “collector” and creative soul. He had an appreciation for anything unusual, eclectic, or-as he would have appreciated-“little things.” He enjoyed drawing, painting, and working with his hands. Stickers were a necessity and could find their way onto vehicles and just about anything else he owned. His decorating style was unmistakably his own.

He leaves behind stories - probably more than a few that shouldn't be printed in an obituary - animals he spoiled rotten, two daughters and a nephew who carry far more of his personality in them than he probably ever cared to admit.

Charlie spent most of his life doing what came naturally to him-working behind the wheel of a truck, fixing things, and always finding another project to start. And wherever Charlie went, there were two things you could guarantee he had with him: a flashlight on his side and a pocket knife.

Animals under his care never had to worry about going hungry. At 2:00 every afternoon, the pigs could count on Charlie arriving with apples and loaves of bread. He routinely overfed every animal he encountered.

Charlie put tremendous care into the final resting place of his wife, Amanda, and his beloved Lilith on the family farm. He worked on the graveside himself, surrounding it with flowers, rose bushes, hummingbird feeders, and living things-a place created and tended with love. It is fitting that Charlie will now rest at the place into which he poured so much of himself.

Charlie and Amanda married April 11, 1992, and built a life together centered around their family. Amanda Easley Doublin preceded him in death on November 28, 2024. Losing her left an absence that could never truly be filled.

He was preceded in death by his beloved dog, Lilith, who went everywhere with him and was far more than a pet.

Charlie is survived by his daughters, Lynde Doublin (Logan Newsome) and Olivia Raisor (Austin Raisor); his sisters, Betsy Doublin and Debbie Douglas (David Douglas); a nephew, David Keith Vance; and a niece, Kristy Holmes.

More than anything, Charlie loved his girls and was incredibly proud of them. His daughters carry with them not only his love but plenty of the things he gave them without even trying: his temper, sense of humor, willingness to work, and the ability to be witty at precisely the right-or wrong-moment. He could be simultaneously proud of them and aggravated that they were so much like him.

For those wishing to honor Charlie, the family asks that, in lieu of traditional cut-flower arrangements, living flowers, rose bushes, shrubs, or trees be considered so they may continue growing at the family gravesite that Charlie worked so hard to make beautiful.

Donations to assist Charlie's daughters and family during this time are also gratefully accepted.

After a lifetime spent driving, fixing, collecting, and making things unmistakably his own, Charlie has finally put down his tools. Even though we weren't ready to let him go, we believe Amanda and Lilith are waiting on him, ready to welcome him home.

08/20/2026

Cynthia "Cindy" Clark Rollins, of Wickliffe, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026, in her home. She was born on January 16, 1957, in Mount Vernon, Illinois, to Gerald and Billie Clark.

Cindy dedicated 23 years of hard work to Ingevity before her well-deserved retirement.

Cindy was compassionate, treating those around her with genuine kindness and warmth. Above all, she fiercely loved her family. As an exceptional wife, mother, and grandmother, her happiness was unmistakable when surrounded by those she loved.

Cindy is survived by her family, including her husband, Charles “Dumas” Rollins of Wickliffe; her children, Emily Hitchcock of Barlow, Wade Hitchcock and his wife, Sandra, of West Paducah, and Linzy Wiley and her husband, James, of Neptune Beach, Florida; and her grandchildren, Joseph McGuirk, Samantha “Gracie” Poole, Damion Hitchcock, Logan Hitchcock, Mila Wiley, and Aria Wiley.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Gerald “Geep” Clark, and her parents.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, 11:00 am, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe, with Bro. Daniel Fraser officiating. Burial will follow at Wickliffe City Cemetery.

08/20/2026

Sherman David Hubbard, of Cunningham, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at the Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, Kentucky.

Sherman was born on February 12, 1954, in Williamsburg, Kentucky, to John and Sallie Eperson Hubbard. He attended Milburn Baptist Church in Milburn, Kentucky.

Sherman spent more than 20 years working for B&M Tire, where he built a reputation for being hard-working and dependable. He later worked at Pilgrim’s Pride, continuing to show the same strong work ethic that defined so much of his life. He was known for taking pride in doing his job well and for always being counted on when work needed to be done.

Outside of work, Sherman enjoyed fishing and found peace in spending time outdoors. He also loved to watch any type of racing, especially when it involved his sons’ drag bike races. Those moments brought him great joy, and he took pride in cheering for his children in all of their endeavors. He will also be remembered as being the most loving Grandpa to his grandson, David.

Sherman was also known for his outgoing personality and his gift for conversation. He never met a stranger and loved to talk with anyone willing to listen. He had a way of making people feel comfortable and welcome, and he could strike up a conversation anywhere he went. Many will remember that he was often the last one to leave because he enjoyed talking so much and valued the time spent with others.

Sherman is survived by his wife, Debbie Hubbard of Cunningham; daughters, Sally Hubbard and Lisa (Pablo) Hubbard, both of Cunningham; a son, Christopher (Ashley) Hubbard, of Paducah; his grandson, David Hubbard, of Paducah; sisters, Sarah Nass and Betty Grimes; brother, Johnny Hubbard; a very special sister-in-law, Hattie Hubbard; several nieces and nephews, and his favorite sitting buddy and lap dog “Peanut”.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Elizabeth Blevins, Hallie White, and Nancy Steel; brothers, Perry, Hobart, Archie, and Tom Hubbard; his father-in-law, Wilbur Lynn; a brother-in-law, Doug Lynn; and his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell with Bro. Glen Stewart officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Cunningham, Kentucky.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the service time of 1:00 pm on Saturday, August 22, 2026, also at the funeral home.

08/20/2026

Peggy Maureen Stone Brown passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah. Born on April 5, 1960, in Paducah, Peggy was the beloved daughter of Charles W. and Melba June (Flowers) Stone.

A devoted member of Olivet Baptist Church, Peggy dedicated many years to her work as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Her passion for life was evident in her love for cooking, especially baking and decorating cakes. She also found joy in sewing and cherished the time spent with her family. Known for her kind spirit, Peggy will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She leaves behind her loving husband of 29 years, Kenneth Brown; her daughter, Kimberleigh Robinson; her step daughter, Crystal Brown; her brother Mike Stone and his wife, Doris, of Kevil; and three grandchildren: Autumn Haynes, William Haynes, and Andrea Cain.

Peggy's memory will be honored at a memorial service on Saturday, August 22, 2026, 11:00 a.m., at Olivet Baptist Church in Paducah.

Her legacy of love and kindness will endure in the hearts of those who loved her.

08/17/2026

Delores Dick Lucus, of Kevil, Kentucky, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, just five days after the passing of her beloved husband, Jeff.

Delores was born on August 27, 1948, at Riverside Hospital in Paducah, to James Clarence Dick and Ruby Mae Dick. She was a 1966 graduate of Ballard Memorial High School.

Delores worked for Tele-Service for 16 years before becoming a full-time homemaker. She was the very definition of a traditional wife, devoting her life to caring for her husband, children, and home. Her family lovingly remembers that she could be a worrier, but that was simply because she cared so deeply about everyone she loved.

Christmas was Delores’ absolute favorite time of year. Each Christmas Eve, she prepared a traditional dinner and welcomed the entire family into her home to gather around the table. Everyone looked forward to her delicious ham and dressing, but the family favorite was always her famous four-stack pudding, which they lovingly described as “to die for.” During the Christmas season, Delores and Jeff also looked forward to their special tradition of going to Patti’s together for a meal and enjoying all the beautiful decorations.

In her quieter moments, Delores could often be found with Days of Our Lives playing on the television, her longtime guilty pleasure. More than anything, however, Delores loved being a mother. She was her children’s number one fan, their greatest supporter, and one of their closest friends. She was not simply their mom; she was truly their best friend.

During the last few years of her life, Delores’ Alzheimer’s disease progressed and eventually left her unable to travel to be with Jeff during his hospitalization. Although that separation was difficult for the family, her children find comfort in knowing that Jeff, who passed away on August 7, 2026, was waiting to welcome her home.

Delores is survived by her two sons, Wes (Lisa) Goode of Wickliffe and Darrell (Brandee) Goode of Lone Oak; five grandchildren, Perry Wayne Goode, Cody Hunter Goode, Jarrett Goode, Kyler Teitsort, and Landon Teitsort; and one great-grandchild, Kesli Blake.

In addition to her parents, Delores was preceded in death by her husband, Jeffery Lee Lucus; one sister, Linda Miller; one brother, Kenneth Dick; and two nephews, Joey Miller and Duane Pierce.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah, with Pastor Wesley Morehead officiating. Burial will follow at Woodville Cemetery in Kevil.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour of 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Delores’ honor to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011, or made online through the Alzheimer’s Association donation page.

08/16/2026

Joseph Elmo Gunn, of Blandville, KY, died Wednesday night, August 12, 2026 at Life Care Center in La Center with his daughter and son-in-law at his side.

He was born on March 18, 1935, in Blandville, to John D. and Cordie Mae Wilson Gunn and spent his early years working on his family’s 65-acre farm, raising corn and to***co, among other things. From a young age, he was tasked with climbing high into the barn rafters to hang to***co out to dry, a job for which he was particularly adept on account of his small size and youthful nerve.

As a boy, Elmo narrowly escaped death at least twice. The first time was at age two, when his Uncle Marvin Wilson told him he was going to take his eyeballs out and play marbles with them. Frightened, he crawled behind his mother’s Singer sewing machine, where he found and ate an entire bottle of St. Joseph Aspirin because, according to him, they “tasted real good.” The second time came when he got his legs tangled in the reins of some spooked horses while plowing the field and would have been dragged to death if not for the grace of God, who apparently wanted him to live for another eight decades.

It was during his early youth that he also discovered a love for basketball. He played guard and, by his own account, was so quick that no one could keep up with him. He scored 40 points one night and talked about that for the next 75 years.

In the 1950s, Elmo left Blandville with his brothers, Stan and Leon, to pursue a music career that would span decades and take them places far and wide, from East St. Louis to Las Vegas to Denver and beyond. They had the opportunity to play with such great names as Hank Thompson, Roy Clark, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

In the 1970s, the Gunn Brothers had a television show out of Springfield, IL, that ran in syndication all over the country. For their contributions to country music, Elmo and his brothers were inducted into the Legends of South Dakota Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum in 2012.

Away from music, Elmo was a champion tennis player who amassed a formidable collection of trophies, often winning matches against players half his age.

Those who knew Elmo will remember him as a guitarist and storyteller, a friend, a father, a sinner saved by grace, a wellspring of wisdom, and an unabashed character. He will be bitterly missed, but we who are left behind trust that he is now with Christ, his Savior, in a place of brightness, a place of repose, where all sickness and sorrow have faded away. If you don’t die, you can’t go to heaven after all.

Elmo is survived by his three children, Joe Gunn Jr. and wife, Lucy, of Chatham, IL; Randy Gunn of Peoria, IL; and Jamie Lee Fuller and husband, Jake, of Evansville, IN; one brother, Leon Gunn of Blandville; six grandchildren, Joshua J. Gunn (Lindsay), Jordan M. Gunn, Chloe A. Gunn (Joseph), Israel Fuller, Yael Fuller, and Eden Fuller; three great-grandchildren, Grady Gunn, Gannon Gunn, and Gibson Gunn; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by six sisters, Thelma Ford, Opal “Jenny” Murphy, Georgie Daniels, Model Munsell, Cleo Harper, and Clara Mae Munsell; five brothers, Stan Gunn, John Raymond Gunn, David Earl Gunn; two infant brothers, John Gunn and Elmo Gunn; and his parents.

Visitation will be held Monday, August 17, 2026 at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at Zoar Cemetery in Cunningham, Kentucky.

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PO Box 279, 257 N 4th Street
Wickliffe, KY
42087

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