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Samuel Dale “Doc” Gray, age 92, departed this life on Monday, July 28, 2025, at his residence. Born on January 21, 1933, in Barren County, Kentucky, Doc lived a life devoted to service, education, community, faith and family. He was married for seventy years to his sweetheart and love of his life, Sara Hardin Gray, who survives.
Doc proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War era. He later earned his Rank I in education with a specialization in counseling and spent his career with the Edmonson County School District as an art teacher, counselor, and coach. A dedicated educator and mentor, he founded the Edmonson County High School art department, as well as the golf and football teams. During this time, he coached golf for many years and was known as an accomplished artist of drawings, such as the Mammoth Cave Hotel and the E.C.H.S. 1976 State Championship. He was deeply respected by students and peers alike for his commitment, compassion, and leadership. In 2025, he was honored by the Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni as the recipient of the Honorary Alumni Award in recognition of his lasting impact. In addition to his work in education, Doc also graduated from the Palmer School of Chiropractic and practiced as a chiropractor in Chalybeate, where he provided care to generations of families. He was a devoted member of Smiths Grove Methodist Church and a member of several organizations, including the Kentucky Education Association, the Edmonson County Historical Society, the Kentucky Association of Chiropractors, as well as being a Kentucky Colonel. Besides his wife, Sara, he leaves to honor his memory— his daughter, Rosemarie Deye (John) of Covington; three grandchildren, Robert E. Anderson, III, Saramarie Gray Anderson (fiancé, Jason Reverman) and Lauren Dale Keith (Jared); great-grandchildren, Crosby and Beau Keith, along with a host of friends that will cherish his memory. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Pocahontas Gray, and six siblings. His life touched many — as a teacher, a healer, a veteran, an artist, and a friend. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he influenced and the memories he helped shape. His family wishes to thank those who have given exemplary care, especially Ken Meredith, Sabrina Jones and Hospice of Southern Kentucky. The interment will be in Brownsville Cemetery with graveside military honors by Nesbit Alexander Memorial Post #6937 VFW. Memorial contributions can be made to: Edmonson County High School Art Department, 220 Wildcat Way, Brownsville, KY 42210. VISITATION 2—7 PM, Friday, August 1, 2025 9—11 AM, Saturday, August 2, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel FUNERAL SERVICE 11 AM, Saturday, August 2, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel Bro. Billy V. Vincent, a cherished man of God, peacefully entered into his eternal rest on Sunday, July 27, 2025 at his residence. The Edmonson County native was born on May 19, 1938 to the late Bro. Lawrence and Bessie Vincent. He was married to his loving and devoted wife, Joyce Jean Vincent, who survives.
Bro. Billy's journey began when he was saved as a young boy at Poplar Spring United Baptist Church. He later joined Jock United Baptist Church, where he became a treasured member. Ordained to preach God's word, Bro. Billy dedicated his life to guiding countless souls to the Lord and pastoring various churches in Edmonson, Barren, and Hart Counties. Aside from church, Bro. Billy retired after a fulfilling career at the Edmonson County Water District. He found peace working outside in the garden, and skillfully crafting walking canes. His unwavering faith and generous spirit continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. Besides his wife, he leaves to honor his memory— his daughters, Darlys Hardin (Wilbert Phelps) of Roundhill and Greta Sue Vincent of Brownsville; his grandchildren, Christina Bratcher (Cody), Barbara Reneau (Steven) and Billy Hardin (Rhianna Mathews); thirteen great-grandchildren; siblings, Bro. Jerry Clay Vincent, Anna Basil, Elizabeth Lindsey and Jan Cowles, along with several nieces, nephews and extended family members who will truly miss him. He was also preceded in death by an infant son, Charles David Vincent, and sisters, Joyce Skaggs and Melba Vincent. The interment will be in Poplar Spring Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to: Poplar Spring Church Cemetery, c/o Anthony Madison, P.O. Box 390, Brownsville, KY 42210. VISITATION 3—7 PM, Wednesday, July 30, 2025 10 AM—7 PM, Thursday, July 31, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel 9—11 AM, Friday, August 1, 2025 Jock United Baptist Church FUNERAL SERVICE 11 AM, Friday, August 1, 2025 Jock United Baptist Church ARRANGEMENTS BY PATTON FUNERAL HOME BROWNSVILLE CHAPEL Helen Priddy, age 73 of Chalybeate, departed this life on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at The Medical Center at Bowling Green. The Edmonson County native was born on March 5, 1952 to the late Leslie and Nancy Sanders. She was married to her devoted husband, the late Robert Dale Priddy.
Helen dedicated many years of her life to the Brownsville Sewing Factory before embracing a new journey as a retail associate at KMart. In her later years, she worked as an instructional aide, shaping the futures of children at South Edmonson Elementary. She was also a cherished and faithful member of Chalybeate United Baptist Church. Helen found joy in gardening, especially growing flowers, and she had a deep love for her family. She loved sitting in the sun on the beach, enjoying its peace and warmth. She cherished spontaneous family gatherings around the dinner table and treasured every moment spent with her siblings. Known for being genuine, having a strong will and candid honesty, Helen never hesitated to speak her mind— whether you were ready to hear it or not. She leaves to honor her memory— her beloved daughter, Anissa Watt (David) of Otter Gap; grandsons, Joshua Watt (Jordan) and Joseph Watt (Megan) of Otter Gap; great-granddaughters, Charlotte, Skylar, Caroline and Hazel Watt; her siblings, Simon Sanders (Cheryl), Ellen Priddy, Mary Lashley, Mollie Johnson (Elbert), Effie Hogan (James) and Nellie Hennion (Lawrence), along with several nieces, nephews and extended family members who will miss her. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Edward Sanders. The interment will be in Kinser Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to: Kinser Cemetery Fund, c/o Lee Ann Elmore, 940 Noah Bledsoe Road, Smiths Grove, KY 42171. VISITATION 3—8 PM, Tuesday, July 29, 2025 9—11 AM, Wednesday, July 30, 2025 Chalybeate United Baptist Church FUNERAL SERVICE 11 AM, Wednesday, July 30, 2025 Chalybeate United Baptist Church Betty Ann Davis Woosley, 79, of Roundhill passed away peacefully July 24, 2025 at her home with her family by her side.
The Edmonson County native was a 1963 graduate of Edmonson County High School, a homemaker, a faithful member of Holly Springs Missionary Baptist Church and, as a preacher’s wife for over 61 years, she attended many other congregations. Betty had a love for talking to people and being a good neighbor. She was a daughter of the late William Elbert Davis and Earline Basham Davis. She was preceded in death by a son, Craig Woosley and a grandson, Trent Woosley. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday at Holly Springs Missionary Baptist Church with burial to follow in Threlkel Cemetery. Visitation will take place 11:00 AM-7:00 PM Saturday at Gravil Funeral Home and after 10:00 AM Sunday at the church. Surviving are her husband, David Woosley; two daughters, Kim Bullock (Stephen) of Roundhill and Donna Taylor (Tim) of West Point; a son, Jeff Woosley (Trena) of Roundhill; a daughter-in-law, Melissa Woosley of Shrewsbury; two brothers, Terry Davis (Matha) and Christy Joe Davis both of Bowling Green; a sister, Debbie Jones of Bowling Green; 11 grandchildren, Brittany Tomes (Jeremy), Bridget Romines (A.T.), Matthew Bullock (Katie), Brianna Logsdon (Brent), Jon Vincent (Mindy), Cody Vincent (Emily), Devon Woosley (Dana), Ethan Woosley, Shalane Hale (Austin), Tristan Woosley (Kelsey) and Trey Woosley; 18 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Dorothy Sebourn, age 78 of Brownsville, departed this life on Monday, July 21, 2025 at her residence. The Kennett, Missouri native was born on November 8, 1946 to the late Charles and Rudell Henson. She was married to her devoted husband of fifty-nine years, Ray Sebourn, until they were parted by his passing on May 31, 2025.
Dorothy was a housewife, who also worked as a sales clerk at Big Mike’s Rock Shop. She had a wonderful passion for collecting beautiful and unique rocks and jewelry, which always brought a smile to her face. In her spare time, she loved to sew, adding her special touch to everything she created. Dorothy was a member of Beaver Dam United Baptist Church, where she was saved in her younger years. She leaves to honor her memory— her son, Shawn Sebourn of Bee Spring; loving grandchildren, Dakota Sebourn (Jordan) of Glasgow and Kennady Sebourn of Bee Spring and great-grandsons, Raylan and Stetson Sebourn. Besides her husband and parents, she was also preceded in death by her daughter, Tammy Marie Parker. Memorial contributions may be made to: Patton Funeral Home, Dorothy Sebourn Memorial Fund, PO Box 326, Brownsville, KY 42210. The interment will be with her beloved husband, Ray, at Stanfield Cemetery in Clarkton, Missouri. VISITATION 10 AM—12 PM, Monday, July 28, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel MEMORIAL SERVICE 12 PM, Monday, July 28, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel Earl Raymond Borchardt, 83, of Mammoth Cave passed away July 16, 2025 at Signature Healthcare in Horse Cave.
The Ohio native was a copper and gold miner for Duval Corporation and Freeport McMoRan and was a US Air Force Veteran. He was a son of the late Frank Borchardt and Lillian Elizabeth Morris Brochardt and the husband of the late Theresa Bajbek Borchardt. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Elizabeth Ann Borchardt and a sister, Lillian Grace Borchardt. No public services are scheduled. Gravil Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Surviving are a daughter, Danielle Conner of Park City; a son, Kenny Borchardt of Mammoth Cave; and a grandson, Shaune Thomas Conner II of Fairview Heights, IL. Eli Waylon James Meredith, a bright young light in our world, was born on December 12, 2008, in Leitchfield, Kentucky. He tragically left us too soon on July 16, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky, surrounded by his loving family and an adoring community.
Eli was in his junior year at Edmonson County High School, where he embraced life with a spirit that shone in every way possible. He worked odd jobs alongside his father, Clayton Meredith, during his spare time, showcasing his strong work ethic and determination. Eli also embarked on entrepreneurial adventures, starting his own detailing business for cars—a testament to his ambition that belied his tender age. Eli was saved and baptized at a young age and a member of the Demolay Club. Family was at the heart of Eli's existence. He is survived by his devoted mother and father,Tabatha and Clayton Meredith; his cherished siblings, Hunter Meredith (Deanna Decker), Maggie Meredith (Mike Meredith), and Natalie Conder (Morgan Lindsey); and his beloved niece and nephew, Ira and Carter Meredith. He enjoyed treasured moments with his Mammaw, Wanda Presley, and his Papaw and Mamaw, Troy and Tammy Truclock, along with Papaw and Mamaw, William and Sheila Meredith, and Mamaw, Barbara Lee. Eli shared a special bond with many loving uncles, aunts, cousins, friends, and family who will deeply miss his warm and generous spirit. Eli was not just a son, brother, nephew, or cousin; he was a kind-hearted friend to all who crossed his path. He had a heart of gold, treating everyone he met with unwavering kindness and empathy. Eli was loved not only for his fun-loving nature and great sense of humor but also for the way he always put others before himself. His hobbies and passions included playing travel ball, being a member of the Edmonson County High School Baseball team, and a former player for Grayson County and Edmonson County. He loved trucks, fishing, and sports in general, and found joy in gaming—especially playing Fortnite and making TikToks that captured his playful spirit. Most importantly, Eli cherished his family above all else, valuing the moments spent with the people he loved. As a community, we take solace in remembering Eli’s proudest accomplishment: watching his family succeed and thrive. He truly embodied the role of a supportive and loving family member, always cheering others on from the sidelines, with a smile that brightened the lives of everyone around him, even in his final days. Through the gift of organ donation, Eli was able to save the lives of five people – his legacy of Kindness and generosity lives on. He was preceded in death by two of his papaws, Billy Lee and Jerry Presley; and his grandpa and grandma, Joe and JoRita Loflin. Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, (July 26, 2025) at Potter’s Hope Ministries located at 135 Commerce Drive, Leitchfield, KY. Bro. Aaron Tucker, Bro. Ethan Woosley and Bro. Mickey Coates will be officiating. Burial will be in the New Freedom Cemetery. Eli was a simple country boy who accepted everyone just as they were. He was comfortable in laid-back settings and often felt out of place in formal crowds. In honor of Eli’s easy going spirit, the family kindly asks that you come dressed casually. To celebrate his love of his favorite color, we ask all who attend the funeral service on Saturday to wear purple. Friends and family are invited to join on July 24, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and again on July 25, 2025, from 9:00 am to 8:00 p.m. Further visitation will continue on July 26, 2025, from 9:00a.m until time of services all at Potter’s Hope Ministries. His departure leaves a void that words cannot fill, but his legacy of love and joy will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, dear Eli. Though you have left this world, your spirit will live on in the countless lives you touched. Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Dermitt Funeral Home to assist with final expenses. Beverly Gray Browning, 77, of Lindseyville, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025. She was a member of Midway United Missionary Baptist Church in Lindseyville. Beverly was preceded in death by her faithful husband of 49 years at his passing, Stoy E. Browning. This October will be the 61st anniversary of their wedding union; her parents, Cal and Shellie Meredith Johnson; siblings, Ralph Johnson, John Henry Johnson, Lawrence Johnson, Helen Risen, Willadean Williams, Millie Whittinghill, Patricia Kenwick, and Maxwell Johnson.
Beverly is survived by one son, Craig E. Browning (Deborah); one daughter, Denise Coomes (Ron); two grandchildren, Emily Dyer (Braxton) and Summer F. Rich (Cody); three great grandchildren, Easton Dyer, Dorothy Rich, and Isabella Dyer. She is also survived by one sister, Juanita Sanders (Jimmy); and a host of nephews, nieces, extended family, loved ones, and many friends. Beverly spent her life in service to others. A dedicated daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, she was often described as good hearted and hard working. She was a great “country cook” at several area restaurants and a former assistant manager for Dollar General. She enjoyed spending time with family, cooking, holidays (especially Christmas), and the great outdoors. Donations in lieu of flowers may be directed to the Edmonson County Family Resource Youth Center program with checks made payable to “ECFRYSC” and mailed to: Edmonson County Board of Education, Attn: Brandon Prunty, P.O. Box 129, Brownsville, KY 42210. The interment will be in Midway United Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery. VISITATION 2—6 PM, Saturday, July 19, 2025 1—3 PM, Sunday, July 20, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel FUNERAL SERVICE 3 PM, Sunday, July 20, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel Martin “Marty” Thompson, age 67 of Smiths Grove, departed this life on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at his residence. The Matton, IL native was born on April 11, 1958 to the late Dale Edward and Helen Marie Thompson. He was married to his loving wife, Donna Sue Rodgers Thompson, who survives.
Marty spent many years working on oil wells before he retired as an assembly line worker at Pan-Oston. He had an amazing work ethic and truly loved being busy—work was more like a pastime for him! With a heart of gold, he often rescued turtles and even snakes whenever they needed help crossing the roadways. In his leisure time, he enjoyed fishing and relaxing while watching his favorite shows on tv. Besides his wife, Donna, he leaves to honor his memory— his children, Dustin Thompson (Leslie), Martin Dale Thompson (Rachel), Drew Thompson (Becky), Darren Thompson (Micah), Derek Thompson (Mercedez) and DeAnndra Davis (Kermis); step-children, Marc Simmons and Natasha VanArkel (Dustin); sixteen grandchildren; four step-grandchildren, and his sister, Paula Benton. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Brian and Cindy Thompson. No services are scheduled at this time. ARRANGEMENTS BY PATTON FUNERAL HOME BROWNSVILLE CHAPEL Shirley Vincent, age 81 of Bee Spring, departed this life on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at the Edmonson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. The Edmonson County native was born on February 14, 1944 to the late Milton and Deloris VanMeter Vincent. She was married to her beloved husband, Wayne Vincent, until they were parted by his passing on October 9, 2015.
Shirley was a member of Bee Spring Missionary Baptist Church, deeply devoted to the Lord and her family. Her kind heart was evident as she drove the bus for the Edmonson County Head Start program, nurturing and supporting the children in her care. She also worked at various local restaurants and as a housekeeper, demonstrating her strong work ethic. She leaves to honor her memory— her sons, Ron Vincent (Donna) of Brownsville, Kevin Vincent and Patrick Vincent both of Bee Spring; grandchildren, Christina Florence, Sarah Moyer (Wesley) and Codie Vincent; great-grandchildren, Harley and Carlen Moyer, along with her siblings, Kadon Vincent (Carolyn) and Brenda Vincent. Besides her husband and parents, she was also preceded in death by her son, Graylan Vincent, grandchild, Shaina Vincent and siblings, Doug Vincent and Carolyn “Tooter” Watt. Memorial contributions can be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Shirley’s wishes were to have her body bequeathed to the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. VISITATION 10 AM—12 PM, Friday, July 18, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel MEMORIAL SERVICE 12 PM, Friday, July 18, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel Anne Starnes Ely, age 74, of Paoli, IN, formerly of Sweeden, KY, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, July 12, 2025. The Edmonson County native was born on January 3, 1951, the beloved daughter of the late Margaret Lane and Howard Starnes. Anne was united in marriage to Joseph Owen Ely, who also preceded her in death.
With a dedicated career as a registered nurse, Anne provided compassionate care to many patients through the years in Horse Cave, Bowling Green, and Paoli. Outside of her professional life, she found joy and tranquility in spending time with her horses and was a former member of the Edmonson County Saddle Club. Anne held her heritage and family close to her heart and cherished the wonderful memories made during her younger years. She leaves to honor her memory—her children, Matthew Patterson of Corpus Christi, TX, Brandy Leinart Ream of Paoli, IN and Mallory Leinart Mink (Josh) of Paoli, IN; four grandchildren, Mason Webster, J. Burton Ream, Ella Ream and Tucker Mink; a great-grandchild, Frankie Mae Webster and a brother, Larry Starnes (Linda), along with extended family members that will treasure her memory. Besides her husband and parents, she was also preceded in death by her adored maternal grandparents, Big E. and Ms. Lane. VISITATION 9:30 – 10:30 AM, Tuesday, July 15, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel GRAVESIDE SERVICE 11 AM, Tuesday, July 15, 2025 Sweeden Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery Carol Sue Houchin Durbin, 82, of Cedar Springs passed away peacefully with family by her side at her daughter’s home in Richmond.
The Edmonson County native was a homemaker, a member of the first graduating class of Edmonson County High School and a member of Cedar Springs United Baptist Church. She was a daughter of the late James Franklin “Buster” Houchin and Cova Corene Elmore and the wife of the late Raymond Ervin Durbin. She was preceded in death by a sister, Patricia Ann Cunningham and a brother-in-law, Dennis Hawkins. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Wednesday at Cedar Springs United Baptist Church with burial to follow in Lambert Cemetery. Visitation will take place 3:00-7:00 PM Tuesday at Gravil Funeral Home and after 11:00 AM Wednesday at the church. Surviving are four children, Amelia Ruth Durbin of Bowling Green, Raymond Allen Durbin (Glyn) of Cave City, Cynthia Carol Durbin of Richmond and Darren Robert Durbin (Tonya) of Edmonton; two sisters, Mary Francis Hawkins of Park City and Theresa Higgs of Buffalo, NY; three brothers, James Steven Houchin of Goose Creek, SC, Jesse Ellis Higgs of Elizabethtown and Holland Dale Higgs of Cadiz; six grandchildren, Holli Nicole Durbin, Hunter Chase Durbin (Mary Grace), Dylan Wade Durbin, Miranda Carol Woodcock, Nathan Allen Woodcock and Kelsea Raylynn Durbin; four great grandchildren, Hensleigh Nicole Durbin, Karter Arrington Corbin, Parker Ray Durbin and Lincoln Oliver Durbin; two bonus great grandchildren, Olivia Everly Corbin and Benton Wayne Corbin; a special nephew, Ray Cunningham. Sharon Ann Sanders, 66, of Bee Spring peacefully departed this life July 8, 2025 surrounded by her loving family at University of Louisville Jewish Hospital.
The Edmonson County native was born Feb. 26, 1959 to the late Ira Wayne “I.W” and Willie Mae Hampton Meredith. Sharon was saved during a revival at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church July 26, 1970, and was later baptized in Rhoda Creek. She was a 1977 graduate of Edmonson County High School and was known for her strong work ethic compassion and deep care for others. After graduating, she worked as a waitress at Hilltop Restaurant where she met her husband-to-be, Johnnie Lee Sanders. They were married Nov. 21, 1979. She later became assistant manager at Jr. Foods in Sweeden, where she worked for over 20 years and formed many cherished friendships. Known as “Sis” or “Sissy” during her younger years, Sharon had many affectionate nicknames given to her by family over the years, but the title she cherished most was simply, “Mom”. She had a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature- especially flowers. She found joy in tending to her flower beds which brought beauty and peace to her home. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Oma and Carlie Meredith and Cordes and Anna Odell Hampton; two brothers-in-law, Isaac “Pete” Sanders and Kenneth Decker; two sisters-in-law, Rita Sanders and Coreene Sanders; a niece, Betsy Morris; and a dear friend, Rudy VanMeter. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday at Jock United Baptist Church with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will take place 3:00-8:00 PM Thursday at Gravil Funeral Home. Visitation at the church will begin at 11:00 AM Friday and continue until the funeral begins. In addition to her husband, she leaves to honor her memory two beloved children, Alison LeeAnn Sanders of Bee Spring and John Cody Sanders (Brooklyn) of Louisville; two sisters, Lisa Stanton (Ronnie) and Sandy Alford (Bobby); four brothers-in-law, Jerry Sanders (Sharon), Harry Sanders (Debbie), Paul Sanders (Marlon) and Larry Sanders (Veronica); four sisters-in-law, Lillie Mae Sanders (James), Velma Decker, Mickey Decker (Randall) and Nancy Torrence (Mike); An aunt, Shirley “Dot” Hampton; and many nieces nephews, cousins and friends. Gary Douglas Vaughn, 66, of Smiths Grove passed away July 4, 2025 at T. J. Samson Community Hospital in Glasgow.
The Barren County native worked in the construction industry with a specialty in masonry. Gary was loved by so many, and he never knew a stranger. He was well known for his musical talents as a bass guitarist and had played as the opening act for Tim McGraw and several other entertainers. He was the son of the late James Vaughn and Jewell Chapman Vaughn. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lizzie Bulle Vaughn; a son, Jeremy Vaughn; a stepson, Jason Netherton; two sisters, Brenda Vaughn and Beatrice Hill; and four brothers, James Vaughn, Luther Vaughn, Larry Vaughn and Michael Vaughn. A Celebration of Life Service will be scheduled at a later date. Gravil Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Surviving are a daughter, Jessica Shaw (Cory) of Smiths Grove; a stepdaughter, Jessica Hall (Zach) of Bloomington, IL; six grandchildren, Bridget Shaw (JD Dodson), Brayden Shaw, Braxton Shaw, Tyler Hall, Elijah Hall, and Tessa Martin (Ethan); four great grandchildren, Sterling Jones, Jacelyn Emmert, Waylon Emmert, and Jaxton Martin; a brother, Willie Vaughn (Christina) of Campbellsville ; a special cousin, Daniel Phelps of Glasgow; and many friends and extended family. Joe Ann Keown, age 82 of Mammoth Cave, departed this life on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at Edmonson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. The Jefferson County native was born on April 9, 1943 to the late Arnold and Elsie Saling Vincent. She was married to Russell David Keown, until they were also parted by his passing.
JoAnn devoted herself to caring for her family's needs as a loving homemaker. She was a member of Fairview United Baptist Church, where she cherished her faith and church family. In her moments of leisure, she found peace in reading captivating books. However, her greatest joy came from the laughter and love shared with her family, as they created unforgettable memories together. She leaves to honor her memory— her daughter, Tamera Blessitt of Louisville; grandchildren, Vincent Blessitt, Aimee Cronin (Craig) and Emily Keown, and great-grandchildren, Landon Blessitt, Sullivan Blessitt and Tucker Salsman. JoAnn was also preceded in death by her son, Russell Anthony Keown. The interment will be in Matt Minton Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 3525 Piedmont Rd NE Building 5, Suite 120, Atlanta, GA 30305. VISITATION 11 AM—1 PM, Saturday, July 5, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel FUNERAL SERVICE 1 PM, Saturday, July 5, 2025 Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel Shirley Ann Alcorn, age 87, of Bethlehem, GA passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2025. She was born on February 6, 1938 in Louisville, KY. Shirley was a telephone operator and Frame Dame for Southern Bell. She has been married to the love of her life Thomas for 70 Years. Shirley was a member of Bethlehem First United Methodist Church. She was a lay speaker for United Methodist Churches where she preached all over Georgia. Shirley volunteered with countless organizations and ran a shelter in Florida for abused and abandoned children. Shirley was a member of the D.A.R. Shirley was the matriarch of the family. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
She is predeceased by her father Thomas L. Wells; mother, Maja Tomes Bush and stepfather, James Ralph Bush; sisters: Dorothy Greco (Dr. John) and Betty Edgar (Ronald). Shirley is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Lee Alcorn; son, Thomas Lee Alcorn, Jr.; daughters: Diane Shelton (Charles), Denise Matty (Dennis), Pixie Cook (Vernon), and Charlotte Wright; brother, James Robert Bush; sister, Doris Hilliard; and lots of loving grandchildren and great grandchildren. A visitation will be Monday, July 7, 2025 from 12:30 pm until 2:00 pm at Bethlehem First United Methodist Church, 709 Christmas Ave, Bethlehem, GA 30620. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm at the church. She will be laid to rest at Bethlehem Methodist Cemetery. |
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