Clay City Times

Serving Stanton, Clay City & Powell County, Kentucky for More Than 100 Years

Obits

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Leatha Berger, 60, of Irvine, passed away Monday, October 11, 2021 at the Compassionate Care Center in Richmond. She was born in Irvine July 22, 1961 to Almassa and Florance Covey. She was a housewife and a member of the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ. She is survived by her husband James Berger, a son Josh Adkins, two grandchildren, three brothers Al Covey, Gary Covey, Coleman Covey, four sisters Diana Frymyre, Sherry Covey, Carolyn Covey, Mickey Embs and her faithful fur baby Snowball. She is preceded in death by her parents Almassa and Florence Covey, two brothers Leon Covey, Pete Covey and a sister Pam Brandenburg. Funeral services were held Thursday, October 14, 2021 at the Grayson Funeral Home in Irvine with Bro. Tim Stidham and Bro. George Stidham officiating. Grayson Funeral Home was in charge.

Aaron Dwayne Hale, 20, son of Donald and Sandy Hale, passed away Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at Fleming County Hospital, Flemingsburg. He was born July 3, 2001 in Morehead, Kentucky to Donald and Sandy Rowe Hale. Survivors include, parents, Donald and Sandy Hale, Flemingsburg; brother, Caleb Hale; sister, Sarah Hale; grandfather, Odis Rowe; numerous family and friends. He was preceded in death by grandparents, James Donald Hale, Angela Strange, and Rebecca Rowe; and cousins, Hannah Brooks, Tabitha Brooks, and Riley Grace Moore. Services were Friday, October 15, 11:00AM, Davis & Davis Funeral Home by Rev. Tommy Evans. Visitation was Thursday 6-8pm at the funeral home. Burial was in Lovely Cemetery with Ronald Ritchie, Brian Ingram, Roger Crowe, Glen Brooks Jr., Robert Carpenter, and James Hale serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers serving, Josiah Carpenter and Joshua Rowe.

Nellie Haddix, age 65, widow of Henry Hudson, passed away Saturday, October 9, 2021 at her residence in Stanton, Kentucky.  Born in Winchester, Kentucky she was the daughter of the late Vernon Haddix and the late Minnie Holder Haddix and she was a homemaker.  In addition to her parents and husband she was also preceded in death by two sisters, Margaret Caudill and Lillie Creech and four brothers:  Eddie Wayne Haddix, Bernie Haddix, Shirley Haddix and Johnny Haddix.  Nellie is survived by her daughters, Linda Haddix and Rebecca Richardson; her son, Robert Haddix; 11 grandchildren, Dayln Rogers, Coby Rogers, Caleb Rogers, Gavin Rogers, Haven Rogers, Austin Haddix, Joshua Haddix, Brandon Tincher, Gracy Bowman, Carson Bowman, Kylie Richardson, special friend, Gary Ingram, special nephew, Johnathon Haddix and two sisters, Linda Haddix and Ruby Richardson.  Funeral services officiated by Bro. John Hurt and Bro. Matt Barnett was held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at Hearne Funeral Home Inc., 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, KY.  Visitation was at 5:00 until 9:00 P.M. Tuesday at the funeral home.  Burial was in Hatton Creek Cemetery with Robert Haddix, Dayln Rogers, Gary Ingram, Johnathon Haddix, Johnny Haddix and David Wayne Creech serving as active pallbearers.  Honorary pallbearers are Austin Haddix, Brandon Tincher, Tommy Richardson, Brandon Crabtree, Brian Keith Haddix, James Creech and Tommy Haddix.  Arrangements by Hearne Funeral Home, Inc.

Mr. Bobby Eugene Estes, 79, husband of Sharon Tipton Estes, passed away Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at his home in Stanton, KY. He was born July 14, 1942 in Irvine, KY to the late James G. & Ora Rea McIntosh Estes. A lifelong resident of Powell County, he is remembered for his immeasurable contributions to his community as a retired educator who taught auto mechanics at Powell County High School, an accomplished real estate agent, and as the former owner of Estes Sunoco in Stanton. In addition to his professional achievements, he was a devout Christian, a devoted family man, and an honorable veteran of the United States Army, having served with great valor during the Vietnam War. In addition to his wife Sharon, Mr. Estes is survived by: son Dewayne (Felicia) Estes; daughter Bridget (Brian) Marcum; grandchildren Jacob Estes, Luke Marcum, Claire Estes, Noah Marcum, & Julia Estes; and nephew Richard White, Jr. Funeral services was held Saturday, October 16 at 1:00PM at Davis & Davis Funeral Home and will be officiated by Bro. Steven Donithan. Visitation was held Friday, beginning at 5:00PM for family and 6:00PM for friends. Burial followed the funeral on Saturday in Stanton Cemetery with Jacob Estes, Luke Marcum, Noah Marcum, Rob Little, Richard Boone, Brian Marcum, Poss White, & Damon Hughes serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Larry Tipton, C.B. Martin, Danny Martin, Mendel Tipton, Tony Ball, Bruce Reynolds, Ovie Hollon, Mike Briggs, Mike Crowe, & all Mr. Estes’ previous students.

Kevin Norwood Davis, age 51, husband of Arvy Alingog Davis of Meadowbrook Drive, Stanton, Kentucky passed away on Friday, October 15, 2021 at TriStar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.  Born in Fort Thomas, Kentucky he was the son of Billy Davis and Mary Lou Hartzell Davis of Leeco, Kentucky. He attended college at Hocking Technical College in Nelsonville, Ohio. Kevin was a land surveyor with Spencer Land Surveyors and was County Surveyor for the Powell County Fiscal Court. He formerly worked for the United States Forestry Service and was a member of the Hotshot Fire Fighting Team associated with the United States Forestry Service. He fought many fires in several different states while being a part of this team. Kevin was the chairman of the Stanton Airport Board and attended the Zoe First Church of God. He was a very hard worker, honest, understanding and was a loving husband. Along with his wife and parents he is survived by two sisters: Karen Barnard of Anderson, Indiana and Kerri Fee (Skip) Phillips of Lily, Kentucky; two step children: Ken De Guzman of Stanton and Klein De Guzman of Batangas, Philippines; four nephews Jacob Barnard, Stephen Barnard, David Barnard and Joshua Fee; one niece, Kate Fee and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services officiated by James Harold Combs will be held at 1:00 PM. Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky.  Visitation was held on Tuesday, October 19, 2021  beginning at 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Honorary pallbearers are Eric Elam, Ken De Guzman, Jacob Barnard, Stephen Barnard, David Barnard, Joshua Fee, Skip Phillips and Roger Purdy. Arrangements by Hearne Funeral Home, Inc.

Raymond J. Hale, 78, of Irvine, passed away Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at the St Joseph Hospital in Lexington. He was born in Estill County January 9, 1943 to James and Mable Hale. He was retired V R Wasson Factory. He is survived by his daughter Donna Brinegar (Glenn) of Irvine, a granddaughter Jessica Abell (Jeremy) of Berea, two step grandchildren Cheyenne Brinegar, Russell Brinegar, two sisters Pearl Shofner of Nicholasville and Carrie Benson of Nicholasville. He was preceded in death by his parents James and Mable Hale, a brother Lewis Hale and a sister Barbara Hale. Funeral services were held Saturday, October 9, 2021 at the New Vision Full Gospel Church in Ravenna with Bro. Buford Powell officiating. Burial followed in the West Irvine Cemetery. Grayson Funeral Home Irvine was in charge of services.

James M. Nunnelley, 71, of Irvine, passed away Saturday, October 17, 2021 at the Marcum and Wallace Hospital in Irvine. He was born July 8, 1950 in Cincinnati, Ohio to James and Donna Nunnelley. He is survived by his mother Donna Nunnelley, two daughters Jeanette Tiemeyer, Jessica Winchester, a granddaughter Lynn Smith Cole, four great grandchildren, two Brothers Paul Nunnelley, Alan Nunnelley, four Sisters Kathy Blankenship, Effie Halfpenny, Betty Kelley and Phyllis Eldridge. He was preceded in death by his father James Nunnelley, a wife Maryland Nunnelley and a brother Kenny Nunnelley. A memorial service will be held 12 PM Monday, October 25, 2021 at the Restoration Community Church in Irvine with Bro. Jim Bonny officiating. Grayson Funeral Home is in charge.

Helen Martin Randall, 67, of Winchester, passed away at her residence Sunday, October 10, 2021. She was born Winchester November 3, 1953 to Floyd and Nellie Martin. She was a housewife. She is survived by her husband Michael Allen Randall, two sons Charles Banks III (Necole), Christopher Banks (Cleda), three grandchildren, two Brothers Andrew Martin, Richard Martin, four sisters Betty Larrison, Ellen Martin, Eva Martin and Julia Duhon. Funeral services were held  Friday, October 15, 2021 at the Grayson Funeral Home Chapel in Clay City with Bro. Jackie Stamper officiating. Burial followed in the Stokely Cemetery in Clay City. Pallbearers are Rick Martin, Christopher Banks, Charles Banks III, Dave Stamper, Herbert Stamper, David Banks and Charles James Banks. Grayson Funeral Home was in charge of services.

Troubling Fires Continue to Plague North End

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By: Lisa Johnson

 

On Sunday, October 17, Clay City Fire responded to a legal burn behind the self-storage in Clay City. This is the same location where workers started an accidental fire which lead to a power outage shutting down  businesses in the north end of the city last week. On the 17th a fire was left unattended allowing it to spread up into the woodlands, endangering property. Clay City Fire members responded to a potentially dangerous situation requiring Billy “Goats” Wilcox and James” Weasel” Woosly to climb up the mountain to fight the fire above.  James Woosley could be seen climbing  the exposed rock edge  with a firehose strung over his shoulder as Wilcox skirted to the edge to fight the fire  as it spread  up the ridge. Six members of Clay City Fire and the US forest service worked to ensure it would not reignite. Engine 21 and 23  and the tanker were required to fight the fire.

Burning between 6am and 6pm is prohibited  and the use of gasoline and oil found on scene in an agricultural sprayer to start fires is a violation of the federal clean AIR Act. The damage from the previous weeks illegal burn that caused a disruption in utilities requiring the utility pole to be replaced  is estimated  at a cost of around 15 thousand dollars. Firefighters put their lives at risk daily to protect their community, they ask you to please observe the hours of burning and do not leave any  fire unattended. We applaud our firefighters  and their commitment to serve and protect the citizens of Clay City. If you witness illegal burning call CCF or  submit your complaint for environmental burn  violations to 1-800-BURNLAW, the Kentucky Environmental Cabinet in Frankfort -Division of Air Quality.

Test To Stay

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By: Madison Fugate

 

An entirely new program was introduced at the most recent Powell County Board of Education meeting as yet another way of making the best effort to keep youth inside of the classrooms as much as possible during the pandemic. The program was introduced by Superintendent, Dr. Anthony Orr, to the board as the “Test to Stay” system. In summary, it was described as a modified quarantine procedure that’s been approved by the CDC. “We feel like this is going to be really helpful,” Superintendent Orr added.

In further detail, the procedure will provide non-invasive PCR tests to students and faculty who have been exposed to the COVID virus at school. The district decided on the PCR tests as they are proven to be more sensitive to the virus and more reliable, therefore there will be fewer false positives or false negatives. These particular PCR tests that will be used will be a half inch swab to the nose which is considered to be “non-invasive.” The tests also provide same-day results, in under 24 hours. The non-invasive tests, provided by Gravity Diagnostics, will be administered by Powell County Schools’ nurses and Sterling Health staff. It was made known that training will be provided for the medical personnel performing these tests as well. These tests will be conducted on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The state has set aside funding to cover these tests, which on average cost $96 per test.

A pertinent distinction to bare in mind when considering this system is the fact that these tests will only be provided for school-based close contacts only. However, if family members test positive for the virus, this individual will not qualify for the test to stay program and will be required to quarantine and the reasoning for this is is the likelihood of transmission among households. Once adequate training has been provided for staff and Orr is able to determine a date that the district will be able to begin testing, consent forms will be distributed to parents.

With the tests, if the close contact has a negative test and no symptoms, then they will be able to remain in school and be able to maintain access to bus transportation and in-person learning. If an individual meets these requirements to stay and tests negative, they do still have to wear a mask. In the future, if mask mandates are to relax, students involved with the test to stay system will still be required to mask despite a negative test result. Three negative tests after a close contact will permit the individual to exit quarantine.

Apparently, other districts had started this procedure earlier in August and have had very positive results. Orr did share that he received the support of Powell County Health Department Director, Stacy Crase, in introducing this test to stay system. Orr added this statement in support of the system, “Our main priority this year is maximizing safe, in-person learning.” Though recently there has been a continuous decline in quarantine numbers, Orr assures the board that he remains confident that he expects to continue to see on-going quarantines throughout the rest of the year. Given this overview of the test to stay system and considering the possibilities of the future, a motion was presented to the board to approve the agreement with Gravity Diagnostics to begin providing tests. The motion passed unanimously.

Obits

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Raymond J. Hale, 78, of Irvine passed away Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at the St Joseph Hospital in Lexington. He was born in Estill County January 9, 1943 to James and Mable Hale. He was retired V R Wasson Factory. He is survived by his daughter Donna Brinegar (Glenn) of Irvine, a granddaughter Jessica Abell (Jeremy) of Berea, two step grandchildren Cheyenne Brinegar, Russell Brinegar, two sisters Pearl Shofner of Nicholasville and Carrie Benson of Nicholasville. He was preceded in death by his parents James and Mable Hale, a brother Lewis Hale and a sister Barbara Hale. Funeral services were held Saturday, October 9, 2021 at the New Vision Full Gospel Church in Ravenna with Bro. Buford Powell officiating. Burial followed in the West Irvine Cemetery. Grayson Funeral Home Irvine was in charge of services.

Michael Shelly Helton, age 59, widower of Pamela Sue Helton of Stanton, Kentucky died October 9, 2021 from injuries received in an accident on Highway 82 in Estill County, Kentucky.  Born in Barbourville, Kentucky he was the son of the late Shelly Coy Helton and the late Alpha “Jean” Marshall Burgress and an Army Veteran.  Mike Helton was the operator of Bruen’s Restaurant in Stanton.  He was a member of Southern Brothers Motorcycle Club, Task Force Omega, Amvets Post 67 and Owingsville VFW.  Mike was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son, Austin Dean Helton and brother, Richard Eugene Helton.  He is survived by his sons, Michael Coy Helton of Bowen and Trinity Joseph Michael Crump of Owingsville; daughter, Kayla (Ryland) Ledford of Bowen; sisters, Matilda Purvis of Mt. Sterling, Katherine (Robert) Skaggs of Jeffersonville,   Janice Banks of Mt. Sterling and Melissa Helton of Mt. Sterling and four grandchildren, Noah Ledford, Corbin Crump, Harley Ledford and Daniel Willoughby.  Funeral services officiated by Danny Belcher and Rev. Lowell Rice will be held at 12:00 P. M., Thursday, October 14, 2021 at Southern Brothers Motorcycle Club, 560 Reffitt Road, Jeffersonville, KY.  Visitation is 6:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. Wednesday at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton.  Burial will be in Stonegate Cemetery, 27 Stonegate Drive, Stanton, KY with Kyle Pence, Danny Belcher, Robert Skaggs, Robbie Skaggs, David Welch, Mark Shaffer, Bobby Edmondson and Jeremy Banks serving as active pallbearers.  Honorary pallbearers are Johnny Hall, Robert Bailey, Millard Boswell, C. B. Martin, Raymond Gilley, Larry Powell, Tony Napier, Adam King and Ryland Ledford.  Arrangements by Hearne Funeral Home, Inc.   

Elouise Pence, 79, widow of Virgil Gus Pence, passed away Sunday, October 10, 2021 at Wolfe County Health and Rehab Center, Campton. She was born February 5, 1942 to the late John Corbett and Lorene Berryman Brewer. Elouise was long time owner and operator of Stanton Floral Design. Survivors include, daughter, Sandi (Silas) Smith; Granddaughter, Summer Destine (Richard) Empson; Great Grandson, Kaden Michael Rogers; brother, Woody (Maxine) Brewer; sister-in-laws Faye Brewer, Ruby Miller, Ruth Pence; brother-in-law, Vernon (Joyce) Pence; and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Corbett and Lorene Brewer, husband, Virgil Gus Pence, brother, Ellis Brewer, sister, Elwanda Brewer; nephew, Eddie Brewer; and great-nephew, Jonathan Edward Brewer. Services Thursday, October 14, 4:00PM Davis & Davis Funeral Home by Rev. James Harold Combs. Visitation Thursday 1-4pm at the funeral home. Burial in Stonegate Cemetery with Kaden Rogers, Richard Empson, Monty Berryman, Marvin Berryman, Corey Roberts, and Avery Roberts serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers, the staff at Wolfe County Health & Rehab, Dr. Nadeem Shaikh, Lynn Lane, Sandy Wells, James Ed & Kathryn Dennis, Kim & Tommy Napier, Carol Bradley, James & Gayle Roberts, Tom & Lori Deflippo, Mike & Tonya Lindon, and Megan Curtis. The family would like to extend their gratitude for the exceptional care that the Wolfe County Health and Rehab and Dr. Nadeem Shaikh provided.

Thelma Hensley, 49, of Irvine passed away Thursday, October 7, 2021 at the Baptist Health Hospital in Richmond. She was born in Irvine January 3, 1972 to Frank R. and Yvonne Draggoo. She was a homemaker. She is survived by a son Lloyd Hensley (Robin), two daughters Destiny Hensley, Brooklyn Spicer, four grandchildren, three brothers Frank Draggoo, Jimmy Draggoo, Charles Draggoo, four sisters Ethel Lynch (Danny), Nancy Ballard, Minnie Sowers (Robbie) and Lucy Walters (Roger). Funeral services were held Monday, October 11, 2021 at the Grayson Funeral Home Chapel in Irvine. Burial followed in the Draggoo Cemetery in Irvine. Grayson Funeral Home Irvine was in charge of services

Robert Joe Rose, 38, of Clay City, passed away passed away Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at the Clark Regional Medical Center. He was born in West Liberty October 4, 1983 to Arnold and Mary Rose. He was a caregiver and a member of the Church on the Rock. He is survived by his wife Teresa Rose, a son Luke Rose, two daughters Caitlin Rose, Amber Rose, a brother Arnold Rose (Miranda), two sisters Christine Moore (Allen), Jessica Rose and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Clayton Rose. Funeral services were held at 3 PM Thursday, October 7, 2021 at the Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City with Pastor Diane Harrison officiating. Friends visited at  2 PM till time of the service. Burial was in the Rose Bend Cemetery in Wolfe County. Pallbearers are Josh Harrison, Edward Williams, Allen Moore, J.J. Maloney, Daniel Rose, Kenneth Rose, Arnold Rose and Matthew Rowe. Grayson Funeral Home is in charge of services.

Lona Frances Hollon of Seaman, Ohio formerly of Campton, Kentucky, widow of the late Clay Hollon, departed this life Tuesday, September 28, 2021 at the age of 77 years. She was a daughter of the late Raymond and Mary Ora Honchul Tibbs born in Wolfe County, Kentucky on  December 8, 1943. She was a factory worker and a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her son, Henry Clay Hollon (Edna) of Winchester, Kentucky; one grandchild, Erica Louise Banks (Jason); two great-grandchildren, Mary Grace Banks and Cassie Lynn Banks; a special friend, Russell Rainwater of Seaman, Ohio; two brothers, Glen Tibbs of Newman, Georgia and Billy Tibbs Booneville, Kentucky and two sisters, Wanda Faye Hall of Tavares, Florida and Louise McClary of West Union, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clay Hollon; her parents, Raymond and Mary Ora Honchul; one brother, Ralph Tibbs and one sister, Edna Mae Hall. She also leaves behind a host of other relatives and friends to mourn her passing. Family will serve as pallbearers.

Clay City Elementary Fire Drill

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By: Lisa Johnson

 

On Sunday,  September 26, Clay City Fire Department with myself -Mike Madden and Robert Mason assisted in conducting a fire evacuation drill at Clay City Elementary. The drill included first responders and  Officer  Mike Townsend with teachers and students who were relocated to city hall for the exercise. On the way students were accompanied by the legendary Johnny Appleseed. The exercise was an exciting event giving students time outdoors.  Johnny Appleseed -John Chapman was a pioneer period nursery man who was responsible for spreading apple trees through Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Illinois and into parts of Canada. If you don’t like apples, make applesauce and, thank Johnny!

Obits

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Ronald “Ozzie” Rogers Sr., 72, widow of Joyce Rogers, passed away Thursday, September 30, 2021 at his home. He was born December 17, 1948 in Clay City, Kentucky to the late Hezzie and Ila McCoy Rogers. Survivors include, sons, Lynn (Stephanie) West, O J (Sarah) Rogers, and Kevin Joe (Samantha) Rogers; grandchildren, Whitney Rogers, Neesa West, Emma Rogers, Aaliyah Rogers, Hannah Crabtree, Emily Lawson, Blake (Jamie) Warner, Dustin Warner, and Carl Warner; brothers, John Rogers and Ted Rogers; sisters, Judy Goodwin, Nancy Rogers, Shirley (Jim) Gordon, and Vickie Rogers; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, sisters, Eva Curtis, Marcia Gerstenfield, Betty Jo Carrier, Gathel Rogers, and Helen VanPoortfliet; brothers, Fred Hensley and Otis Rogers. Services Monday, October 4, 2:00PM Davis & Davis Funeral Home, Stanton. Visitation Monday 12:00PM-2:00PM at the funeral home. Burial in the Patrick Cemetery with Lynn West, OJ Rogers, HK Goodwin, Blake Warner, Dustin Warner, and Carl Warner.

David Hostetler, 71 of Jeffersonville passed away Sunday, September 26, 2021 at St. Joseph Medical Center in Mount Sterling. He was born June 5, 1950 in Lexington, Kentucky to the late Jimmy Hostetler and Dixie Douglas Goodwin. David was a member of Spruce Valley Church. He worked in construction, ran his own used car business, and owned his own restaurant. David was an avid race car driver where he won several championships and was a race fan for many years. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his son, Darrin Hostetler; daughter, Faye Dixon; grandsons, Maxwell Hostetler and Austin Huron; and brothers, Mike Martin and George Martin. Survivors include, children, Barbara Hostetler, Maysville, Anna Hostetler, Maysville, David (Corie) Hostetler, Knoxville, TN, Tonya and Dustin Hostetler, Georgia, Chad Hostetler, Jeffersonville, Whitney Hostetler, Panama, FL, and Jacob Hostetler, Jeffersonville; grandchildren, Bryan Sweet, Brandi Champion, Brandon Hinton, Cassandra Stanfield, Rachel White, Ryan White, Kimberly Barnett, Pamela Dixon, Santana Hostetler, Hunter Hostetler, Casey Gulley, Kaston Hostetler, Randy Dixon, Brandon Dixon, and Matt Dixon; brothers, Larry (Sue) Martin, Maysville, Rusty (Jo) Martin, Minerva, KY; sisters, Debbie Duzan, Vanceburg, KY, Sarah (Martin) Meadows, Greenup, KY, Diana (Clyde) Logan, Sevierville, TN, Linda (Greg) Clayborn, Flemingsburg, KY, Billy (Sandra) Strange, Hershel (Leona) Strange, and Kathy Reed; and 18 great-grandchildren. David leaves many family and friends who will mourn his passing. Services Wednesday, September 29, 3:00PM Davis & Davis Funeral Home, Stanton. Visitation Wednesday 1:00-3:00PM at the funeral home. Burial in Martin-Willoughby Cemetery with Bryan Sweet, Brandon Hinton, Justin Reed, William Strange, Greg Montgomery, and Canaan Reed serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers serving, Casey Miller and Ryan White.

Joanna Campbell, 46, passed away Tuesday, September 28, 2021. She was born March 17, 1975 in Lexington, Kentucky to the late Franklin Pierce and Minnie Ann Townsend Campbell. Survivors include, daughter, Lois Campbell; sons, Dalton Campbell and Wayne Campbell; and sister, Lois Moore. She was preceded in death by her parents and partner Marcus “Pooter” Banks. Services Friday, October 1, 1:00PM Davis & Davis Funeral Home, Stanton. Visitation Friday 10:00AM-1:00PM. Burial in West Bend Cemetery, Clay City.

Carolyn Janalene Neace, age 80, widow of Jim Neace, passed away on Monday, September 27, 2021 at her residence on Washington Street in Stanton, Kentucky.  Born in Brinkley, Kentucky she was the daughter of the late Rader and Arizona Everage Smith.  Carolyn worked as a cook for Jerry’s Restaurant in Morehead and loved to go shopping. She had a great love for her Grandbabies, loved family gatherings especially Christmas, enjoyed traveling almost anywhere and had a great love for her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Carolyn is survived by her son, Jimmy (Marlina) Neace of Hazard ; two daughters:  Lisa (Pat) Blankenship of Anniston, Alabama and Kathy (Randy) Baker of Stanton; three sisters:  Ivory (Roger) Waddell of Morehead, Billie (Carson) Dailey of Grayson and Sandy Campbell of Morehead; two brothers: Lester Smith of Morehead and Freddy (Alice) Smith of Morehead; eight grandchildren: Sanchia Jolly, Josh Campbell, Audrey Jett, Kim Campbell, Derek Campbell, Brittany Couch, Brian Baker and Jacob Baker and seven great grandchildren: Emma Jolly, Maverick Jett, Cristian Campbell, Fisher Couch, Saylor Couch, Matthew Campbell and River Couch.  In addition to her parents and her husband she was also preceded in death by her siblings, Dexter Smith, Tina Noble, Sharon Rivers and Nancy Waddell. Graveside services will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Wednesday, September 29, 2021 at Stonegate Cemetery officiated by Brother Ralph Ferguson with Randy Baker, Pat Blankenship, Derek Campbell, Brian Baker, Jacob Baker and Joshua Campbell serving as active pallbearers. Arrangements are by Hearne Funeral Home of Stanton.

Powell County Public Library to Raise Tax Rate

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By: Madison Fugate

 

On behalf of the Powell County Public Library, chairman, Michael Frazier, and PCPL board of trustees member, Amy Stamper, were present at the most recent Powell County Fiscal Court meeting to present their tax rate for the 2021-22 fiscal year. During the pandemic and a time of economic crisis, the Powell County Public Library joined other county entities as a unit of the Powell County Fiscal Court. Frazier did update the court that as of this year, PCPL did raise their taxes from 5 cents to every $100 to 5.2 cents to every $100. “That is a four percent increase of compensation fee,” Frazier informed the court, “so that we can expand our programs and also expand our services- and also, look forward to the future of the new public library.”

“We didn’t do this lightly and we didn’t do this without engaging the public,” Frazier insisted. He informed the court that there was a community-wide survey that was shared through social media. Said survey revealed that the community would be more eager to see the PCPL focusing more on youth services as this was a popular recommendation from the public. Both Frazier and Stamper claim that the programs at the library have grown exponentially just within the most recent ten years. Frazier also reported that he had just received confirmation that Powell County Public Library was the only library that stayed open throughout the pandemic, “Now our building may have been physically shut, but we were still working. We were still providing services,” later adding, “I think that sparks the spirit of Powell County Public Library and the services that we offer to the community.”

Stamper added to Frazier’s ideas and statements, “We want to be able to provide more for the county- more programming, more room. We want to make the new library the best that we can make it.” Frazier did update the court that the board of trustees had filed for grants and a state bond in an effort to “look at every possible way to offset the cost away from the tax-payer as much as possible.” This aforementioned tax increase was said to be an “immediate need” for programming services and more use of the public library. Frazier reported that that after thorough monitoring, 142 people on average were counted coming through the doors of the PCPL building daily to utilize services. 

With the tax changes as a result of the passing of the special entity bill and PCPL now becoming a part of the fiscal court, presenting tax rates to the fiscal court is different than in years before. The fiscal court now has the authority to alter these decisions at their discretion. The PCPL now comes before the fiscal court to ask them to take one of three actions, according to Frazier: to approve it, reject it (go back to the previous tax rate), or take no action. “As trustees, we made the decision, so we would ask that the court take no action,” Frazier stated to the fiscal court- which is historically how it has been in years past.

No action by the Powell County Fiscal Court would in essence honor what they have presented. This decision will go in affect this upcoming tax year. Frazier did add before concluding the presentation that motor vehicle tax rates were not changed, “That’s the tax that effects most families and impacts them greater- so we did keep that the same.” Ultimately, no action was taken by the Powell County Fiscal Court after the presentation made by Frazier and Stamper on behalf of the Powell County Public Library.

Obits

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John Briscoe Crain Jr., 83, husband of Patsy Rogers Crain, passed away Thursday, September 16, 2021 at his home. He was born September 8, 1938 to the late Walter Davis and Ora Hazel Dohoney Crain. Survivors include, wife, Patsy Crain; sons, Kevin (Tonya) Crain, Jason Crain, Morgan Powell, Yancey (Vera) Powell; daughters, Teresa Sons and Kay Keaton; sister, Sue Ella Broyles; many grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. Services Sunday, September 19, 2:00PM Grace Fellowship Church of God of Prophecy by Rev. Willard Estep. Visitation was Saturday 5-8pm at the funeral home. Burial was in Stanton Cemetery with Dallas Blankenship, Brandon Neal, Tony Vaske, Danny Allen, Dorvin Bush, and Terry Carpenter. Honorary pallbearers Lindsey Keaton and Dani

Rhoda Gabbard, 78, of Irvine, passed away Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at the Baptist Health Hospital in Lexington. She was born April 11, 1943 in Irvine to Cashus and Melinda Townsend. She is survived by two sons Keith Perdue, Timothy Perdue, two daughters Rethia Collins, Ellar Burns, twelve grandchildren, three brothers Creed Townsend, Paul Townsend, Cashus Townsend, five sisters Bernice Willis, Wanda Willis, Sandra Hardy, Mary Kirby and Rethia Crouch. She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter Mary Noland, a grandson Keith Perdue, and three brothers James Townsend, George Townsend and Buck Crowe. Funeral services were held Saturday, September 25, 2021 at the Grayson Funeral Home Chapel in Irvine with Bro. Rick Powell officiating. Burial followed in the Crowe Cemetery. Grayson Funeral Home Irvine was in charge of services.

Diane Edwards, 71, of Irvine, passed away Friday, September 24, 2021 at the Baptist Health Hospital in Richmond. She was born June 19, 1950 in Irvine to Barry and Jean Tipton. She was a homemaker and a member of the Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine. She is survived by her husband James Edwards of Irvine, three sons James Edwards JR (Jennifer) of Richmond, Virgil Edwards (Rebecca) of Richmond, Paul Edwards (Jesse) of Richmond, a daughter Diana Kerr (Michael) of Arizona, five grandchildren, three great grandchildren, three brothers Elihu Tipton (Katrina) of Winchester, Harold Tipton (Bertha) of London, James Tipton (Diane) of Winchester, four sisters Patty Watson (Howard) of Richmond, Linda Means of Richmond, Norma Nixon of Winchester and Nina Cooper of Irvine. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters Neal Pearson and Joann Frost. Funeral services were held Tuesday, September 28, 2021 at the Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine with Bro. Sherl Thomas officiating. Burial followed in the Edwards Cemetery in Irvine. Grayson Funeral Home was in charge of services.

Linvel “Bud” Wise, 84, passed away Friday, September 24, 2021 at the St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington. He was born in Estill County February 18, 1937 to William and Sudie Wise. He was a carpenter. He is survived by his wife of 50 years Shelia Wise, a son Lloyd Wise, three daughters Carol Burke and husband Elmer, Sheri Wise and husband Will, Amanda Pelfrey and husband Kevin, seventeen grandchildren, twenty one great grandchildren, seven great-great grandchildren and a sister Darlene Sparks. He was preceded in death by his parents William “Chester” and Sudie Wise, three sons Tony, Eugene and Ricky Wise, two brothers Millard and Letcher Wise, two Sisters Estill Helton and Charlene Weaver. Funeral services were held Monday, September 27, 2021 at the Grayson Funeral Home Chapel in Clay City with Bro. George Sparks officiating. Burial followed in the Stone Gate Cemetery in Stanton. Pallbearers were Michael Sparks, Phillip Sparks, Troy Sparks, James Holmes, Shane Wise and Elbert Ray Sparks. Grayson Funeral Home was in charge of services.

Lacy Mae Ledford, infant daughter of Justin and Holly Reed Ledford, passed away Saturday, September 25, 2021 at the University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington. Survivors include, parents, Justin and Holly Ledford; sister Skylar Ledford; grandparents, Jeff and Georgia Ledford, Anthony (Lori) Reed, and Stacy Parido; great-grandparents, Bertha Ledford, Mark and Louise Reed, Ray and Joyce Parido, and Shirley Rivas. Services Sunday September 26, 2021 12:00PM Resthaven Cemetery, Stanton.

Hiker, Bitten by Copperhead, Walks to Safety

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By: Lisa Johnson

 

 On Thursday, September 16th a 911 call was issued regarding a snakebite victim near Pilot Knob in Clay City. The couple had been out for a hike to enjoy the sunset and decided to go barefoot! Trying to hike out after the encounter they eventually called 911. EMS was on scene and requested POCO SAR. The individual was able to walk out to an awaiting car, declining transport from EMS. In case you don’t know already, this is the time of year Copperheads are in full reproduction mode and give birth to between 3 and 10 babies all born alive(Ovoviviparous) and toxic. Copperhead venom is a Hemotoxin that destroys red blood cells reducing clotting. If you are on a blood thinner this could be a serious problem. Around 8000 people in the US receive snakebites every year and the majority of deaths occur from rattlesnakes though rare, deaths do occur  from copperheads. It is not a pleasant experience. Boots are recommended when hiking, some good stiff leather can prevent a day of outdoor fun from becoming a painful experience you will remember for the rest of your life.

Obits

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Mary Louise Puckett, age 58, of Furnace Junction Road in Ravenna, passed away Tuesday, September 14, 2021, at her home following a short illness. She was born March 13, 1963 in Montgomery County and was the daughter of the late Irvin and Myrtle Snowden Strange. She was a homemaker and had lived in Estill County most of her life. She is survived by her husband David Glenn Puckett; one daughter April Lynn Young of Madison Co.; one son Joshua Lewis of Estill Co.; three sisters Nancy Puckett of Estill Co.; Minnie Jordan of Powell Co.; Helen Townsend of Clark Co.; five brothers, James Strange of Fayette Co., Charlie Strange of Powell Co., Jerry Strange of Powell Co., Billy Strange of Powell Co., Eugene Strange of Estill Co.; and multiple furry grandbabies.

She was preceded in death by four siblings: Ethel Tipton, Bethel Barnes, David Strange and Roy Strange. Funeral services were conducted Friday, September 17, at the Warren F. Toler Funeral Home Chapel. Burial was at the Puckett Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Rob Young, Joshua Lewis, John Strange, James Strange, Jerry Strange and David Strange.

Hazel Jean Floyd, age 92, of Irvine, Kentucky, passed away Monday, September 13, 2021. Born to Glyndon and Elizabeth Warner Webb in Madison County on June 11, 1929, she was the oldest daughter of 12 children. She was a devoted homemaker all her life, truly a blessing to her family and friends. She was always working with her vegetable and flower gardens, sewing and quilting with great joy and thankfulness. Hazel Jean was preceded in death by her husband, James T. Floyd; sons Sherman and Larry Floyd; two sons-in-law, Sheryl Griffin and Billy Kelley; brothers, Robert, Homer, Edward, Glyndon Jr., and James Roy Webb; sisters, Daisy Webb, Myrtle Cowan and Wanda Webb.

She is survived by five daughters: Faye Renfro (Joe) of Mt. Sterling, Linda Kelley of Richmond, Brenda Fauste (Bob) of Clay City, Martha “Jenny” Griffin of Irvine,  Frances Spader (Glenn) of Lexington, one daughter-in-law, Sue Floyd of Irvine; two sisters, Catherine Elliott of Connersville, IN

and Betty Brookshire (James) of Irvine; one brother, Paul Webb (Kathleen) of Richmond; 17 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren, 12 great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Betty Brookshire and the Hospice Care Center.

Funeral services were conducted Thursday, September 16, at the Warren F. Toler Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Eric Patrick and Bro. Glennis Sizemore officiating. Burial was at the Johnny Richardson Cemetery in the Sandhill community.

Pallbearers will be grandsons and great grandsons Larry Dean Floyd, Bobby James Fauste, Jeremy Moreland, Derek Kelley, Don Brewer and Marcum Brown

Honorary pallbearers were Betty Brookshire, Eric Webb, Michael Brookshire, Tristan Arvin, Nicholas Brewer and Cody Floyd.

Arnice West, 63 of Hamilton passed away on September 13th at her residence. She was born on January 18, 1958 in Powell Co., Kentucky to Millard & Emma Dorothy (Mullins) Ledford Jr. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Robert West; her children, Misty Lynn Dirksen, Robert Shane (Tonda Larison) West and Brian Christopher (Stacy) West; 13 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 6 sisters, Virginia (Dennis) Ledford Creech, Evelyn Ledford Rose, Glenna (Buddy) Ledford Morrison, Gwen (Teddie) Ledford Linkous, Ghedra (David) Ledford Dunn and Amy (Dana) Ledford Gevedon and 3 brothers, Arnie Ledford, Farren (Teresa) Ledford and Onan (Judy) Ledford. She was preceded in death by her parents and 3 brothers, Lowell, Ernie and Norman Ledford. Visitation was Friday, September 17th from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Baker-Stevens-Parramore Funeral Home 1500 Manchester Avenue. Funeral services followed at 1:00 p.m., also at the funeral home with Pastors Ted Linkous and Dana Gevedon officiating. Burial followed at Woodside Cemetery.

Shelia Strange, 53, of Stanton passed away Monday, September 6, 2021 at her residence. She was born March 28, 1968 to Dick Dunn and Glenda Morton Strange. She was a care giver. She is survived by her mother Glenda Strange, two daughter Heather Martin (Mark McMillan), Ashley Combs (Jason Derrickson), six grandchildren, one great grandchild, three brothers Terry Strange, Kerry Strange and Ronnie Strange. She was preceded in death by her father Dick Dunn and a son Mike Strange. Funeral services were held Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at the Grayson Funeral Home Chapel in Clay City with Bro. John Combs officiating. Burial followed in the Faulkner Cemetery in Stanton. Pallbearers were Michael McMillan, Cayden McMillan, Jason Derrickson, Terry Strange, Matthew Strange and Aaron Strange. Grayson Funeral Home Clay City was in charge of services.

Gary Shelton, 50, husband of Cindy Shelton, passed away Friday, September 17, 2021 at Bourbon Community Hospital, Paris. He was born May 12, 1971 in Irvine, Kentucky to Cecil Shelton and Judy Farthing Spicer. He was a member of Church on the Rock and a supervisor at Kendall. Survivors include, father, Cecil Shelton; mother, Judy Spicer; wife, Cindy Shelton; son, Justin “Knothead” (Alissa) Shelton; daughters, Nicky (Matthew) Rowe and Lillian “Pudden” (Keely) Shelton; step-son, Ethan Sword; step-daughters, Erika Davis and Sierra Perez; brothers, Ernie Shelton and Brandon Shelton; and grandchildren, Kaylynn Rowe, Allison Rowe, Kristyn Rowe, Adalynn Rowe, Easton Flinchum, Jace Perez, Alivia Ball, and Elliott Felter. He was preceded in death by his brother Sammy Shelton. Funeral services Monday, September 20, 1:00PM Davis & Davis Funeral Home by Diane Harrison and Amy Gullet. Visitation was Sunday 7-9pm at the funeral home. Burial was in Shelton Family Cemetery with Justin Shelton, Lillian Shelton, Brandon Shelton, Davis Allen, Ethan Sward, and Matthew Rowe. Honorary pallbearers serving, James Rowe, Raymond Goodwin, and Cindy Goodwin

Shirley M. Slemp, age 71, passed away on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Lee County Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Beattyville, Kentucky.  Born in Powell County, Kentucky she was the daughter of the late Arlie and Dorothy Johnson Tackett and she was a member of Blessed Assurance Church.  Shirley worked in the medical field for 32 years mainly for Hospice of the Bluegrass.  She is survived by her son, Darin Russell (Delia) Slemp ; two brothers:  Charlie Wayne Tackett Sr. and John Paul (Bonnie) Tackett; three sisters:  Betty Nantz, Audrey Rains and Darlene Rains along with two grandchildren,  Luther Cape Slemp and Sophia Slemp.  In addition to her parents she was also preceded in death by her siblings, David Tackett and Alice Dickey. Private graveside services will be held at Resthaven Cemetery. Arrangements by Hearne Funeral Home, Inc.

Lillianna Scarlett Thorn Knox infant daughter of Owen and Autumn Knox passed away Thursday, September 15, 2021 at the University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington. Graveside services were held Saturday, September 18 at the Napier Cemetery in Clay City. Grayson Funeral Home was in charge of services.

Donna Renee Kirby, 54 – Affectionally known by Renee, left this world and went straight into the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, September 15th. She was born June 21, 1967 in Winchester to the late Donnie Lee Sparks and Betty J. Creed Sparks. Survivors include, her husband Alan Kirby, two children Chase Kirby and Brooke Kirby, mother Betty J Sparks, sister Stephanie (Doug) Werne, niece Macci (Josh) Linville and the joys of her life, four grandsons: Aiden Marcum, Mason Kirby, Declan Marcum and Xander Kirby. She is preceded in death by her Father, Donnie Sparks, maternal grandparents, Christy and Marie Gilbert and paternal grandparents Kenny and Betty Bales along with many Aunts, Uncles and cousins. She also leaves behind several aunts, cousins, sister in laws, brother in laws and special friend Laura and other close friends that love her. Services were Sunday, September 19, 5:00PM Davis & Davis Funeral Home by Rev. Willard Estep. Visitation was Sunday 1-5pm at the funeral home. Burial was in Stonegate Cemetery with Ivan Kirby, Robbie Kirby, Jeff Strange, Randy Lacy, Ricky Creed, and Danny Sparks serving as pallbearers.

John Briscoe Crain Jr., 83, husband of Patsy Rogers Crain, passed away Thursday, September 16, 2021 at his home. He was born September 8, 1938 to the late Walter Davis and Ora Hazel Dohoney Crain. Survivors include, wife, Patsy Crain; sons, Kevin (Tonya) Crain, Jason Crain, Morgan Powell, Yancey (Vera) Powell; daughters, Teresa Sons and Kay Keaton; sister, Sue Ella Broyles; many grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. Services Sunday, September 19, 2:00PM Grace Fellowship Church of God of Prophecy by Rev. Willard Estep. Visitation was Saturday 5-8pm at the funeral home. Burial was in Stanton Cemetery with Dallas Blankenship, Brandon Neal, Tony Vaske, Danny Allen, Dorvin Bush, and Terry Carpenter. Honorary pallbearers Lindsey Keaton and Dani

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