Clay City Times

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

Pinky Rides Again

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By: Brandon Tipton

Norma Lowe is 82 years old. She graduated from Powell County High School in 1958. She has lived in Powell County most of her life and has called Stanton home for the past thirty years. She has three children, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. All in all it’s an equation for a life well lived, but Norma has a little secret. Norma is Pinky the Clown!

Pinky marched in the Fair Day parade thirty years ago and had a great time. Recently, she wanted to relive those good old days. Despite a recent illness, Norma decided to brush off her rose colored togs and hit the streets again as Pinky. During Friday’s parade, Pinky rode along the parade route handing out bags of candy complete with handwritten cards. The cards were shaped like hearts and bore the uplifting message, “Smile, God loves you.” Norma is an inspiration to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She stands as reminder to us all that you’re never too old to clown around.

Obits

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Ronnie (Darrell) Estes passed away Wednesday September 7th at the Jewish Hospital in Louisville. He was born in Clark Co. August 21, 1966 to Dewie and Mildred Estes. Ronnie was a cook at the 96 Truck Stop in Clark Co.

He is survived, his mother Mildred Estes, one sister Wilma Woosley, 5 bothers Hubert Estes, Bufford Estes, Cecil Estes, Clayton Estes, Virgil Estes.

Mr. Estes was proceeded in death by his father Dewie Estes, and one brother Gary Estes.

Funeral services were held Friday September 9, 2022 at the Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City with Bro Sammy Patrick officiating. Burial followed in the Beatty Place Cemetery in Lee County. Grayson Funeral Home was in charge of the services.

Maudie Jones, 67, of Mt. Sterling, passed away at her residence Saturday, September 17, 2022. She was born in Germantown, Ohio August 31, 1955 to Bryce and Elizabeth Howard. She was a homemaker.

She is survived by her husband Jackie Jones, Jr.; three sons, Mike Spencer, Jimmy Spencer and Bill Spencer; a daughter Jessica Groen, six grandchildren, five great grandchildren and a sister Stella Curtis.

She was preceded in death by her parents Bryce and Elizabeth Howard; two brothers, Bryce Howard JR and Robert Howard and a sister Mary Howard.   

Funeral services were held Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at the Grayson Funeral Home Chapel in Clay City with Bro. Donald Hale officiating.

Burial was in the Donnie Randall Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Stanton. In Lieu of flowers family ask donations be made to the funeral home to help with funeral cost. Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City is in charge of services.

Tony Knox, 53, of Clay City, passed away Friday, September 16, 2022 at the Clark Regional Medical Center. He was born in Mt. Sterling August 24, 1969 to Johnny and Brenda Knox. He worked in auto restoration.

He is survived by two sons, Dustin Knox (Kassi) and Gary Brown, a daughter Destani Knox (AJ), eleven grandchildren, Devon, Kynzi, Kash, Logan, Kali, Gatlin, Tanner, Sophia, Mason, Colton, Garrison and a sister Ashley Knox. He was preceded in death by his parents Johnny and Brenda Knox. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Grayson Funeral Home is in charge.

Billy Dunn of Clay City passed away Sunday September 11, 2022 at his residents. Billy was born in Date City Florida on August 30, 1975 to Roy and Betty Lou Dunn. He was a carpenter by trade.

He is survived by his mother Betty Lou Larsen, one son Austin Hazen, one brother Roy Dunn Jr, for sisters Carmie Crist, Michelle Dunn, Tina Bourget, Maryetta Spinkerman, one very special cousin Bobbie Strange.

He was proceeded in death by his father Roy Dunn Sr. one sister Tonya Dunn.

Funeral service were held Friday September 17, 2022 at Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City. Burial followed in the Stokley – Dunn Cemetery in Clay City. Grayson Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

  Dennis “Red” Campbell, 88, of Irvine, passed away Thursday, September 15, 2022 at the Irvine Nursing Home. He was born April 25, 1934 in Irvine to Willie and Laura Campbell. He was a sawmill operator and was of the Baptist faith.

  He is survived by his wife Geraldine Campbell, two sons, two daughters, four grandchildren Ethan Jordan, Chris Sons, Jennifer Sons Richardson, Brittany Hunt, Cindy Mills and thirteen great grandchildren.   

  He was preceded in death by his parents Willie and Laura Campbell and a son Charles “Spud” Abney.   

  Funeral services were held  Monday, September 19, 2022 at the Grayson Funeral Home in Irvine with Bro. Marvin Neal officiating. Grayson Funeral Home is in charge of services.

  Morgan Larry Daniels, 80, widower of Dottie Daniels, passed away Saturday, September 17, 2022 at Clark Regional Medical Center, Winchester. He was born June 30, 1942 in Stanton, Kentucky to the late Floyd and Emma Crowe Daniels. He was a Navy Veteran.

  Survivors include, daughter, Renee Daniels Campbell; sons, Curt (Jeannie Rison) Daniels and Andy (Karen) Daniels; brother, Bob (Betty) Daniels; grandchildren, Megan Daniels Wells (Paul), Derrick Denniston, Morgan Daniels, Brandy Flowers, and Lexi Adams; great-grandchildren, Sawyer Wells, Jace Wells, Lucy Wells, Grayson Sebastian; and Isabella Waylon.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Dottie Daniels. Services  where held Tuesday, September 20, at  Wells Funeral Home by Bro. Kenny Wasson. Burial was in Faulkner Cemetery with military honors.

Bailey Crowned Miss Powell County 2022

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Ashley Bailey was crowned Miss Powell County 2022 at the Miss Powell County pageant held Saturday September 10. Ashley is the daughter of Kenneth and Alice Bailey and a cheerleader at Powell County High School.

Obits

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Charles Wayne Smallwood, age 72, was carried by the angels to his heavenly reward on Friday, September 10, 2022 at his Mt. Sterling, Kentucky home.  He was born November 20, 1949 in Mt. Sterling to the late James Monroe (J.M.) and Loreba Rogers Smallwood of Rosslyn, Kentucky.  He was loved for his deep faith, biblical knowledge, true grit, playful sense of humor, and generous distribution of peanut butter roll.  Sometimes his children teasingly called him “Quinn”. He was a 1967 graduate of Powell County High School and a 1971 graduate of Morehead State University, with a degree in Agribusiness.  His passion was farming until his health would no longer allow.  He retired as a factory employee from Rockwell International and was a dedicated Christian family man who served as a deacon at Stanton church of Christ and Queen Street church of Christ, an elder at Fairfax church of Christ in Winchester, and an elder at Rolling Hills church of Christ in Mt. Sterling for 10 years.  His wish would be for all of his family and friends to be saved.  He is survived by his wife, Debbie Lacy Smallwood; two daughters: Monica (Lane) Mynk of Winchester, and Micki (Joseph) Clark of Madisonville; one son, Nicolas (Lindsay) Smallwood of Richmond and one brother, Dennis (Mary) Gene Smallwood of Haverhill, MA.  Charles was a beloved Papaw Charlie to seven grandchildren: Matthew and Dana Mynk and Austin Rice of Winchester; Cameron, Colton, and Carson Clark of Madisonville and Lucy Smallwood of Richmond. Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. until 9:00 PM on Thursday, September 15, 2022 at Rolling Hills church of Christ, 125 Rolling Hills Drive, Mt. Sterling, Kentucky.  The funeral will be at 11:00 A.M. at Rolling Hills church of Christ and will be officiated by Dan Murphy.  Burial will be in Stanton Cemetery with Cameron Clark, Colton Clark, Joseph Clark, Lane Mynk, Nicholas Smallwood, Matthew Mynk, Austin Rice and Darrell Lacy serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Rosslyn Friends, his first cousins, and those who served as an elder with him. In Lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Rolling Hills church of Christ with “Churches of Christ Disaster Relief” noted on the check. Hearne Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Mary Etta Crabtree, 75, widow of Lewis Talmadge Crabtree, passed away at her home in Stanton, KY on Thursday, September 8, 2022 following a long illness. She was born on May 24, 1947, the daughter of the late Jess & Hazel Allen Sons.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by: sons James Lewis Crabtree, Timothy Dean Crabtree, & Talmadge Gerald Crabtree; brothers Butch Sons & David Sons; sisters Rita Greene & Juanita Correll; and grandson Lucas Crabtree.

Survivors include: sons Paul Edgar Crabtree & Brian Clay Crabtree; sister Rosie (Tom) Southerland; grandchildren Owen (Autumn) Knox, Adam Crabtree, Amanda (Anthony) Rice, Sarah (Justin) Pasley, Jerrica Crabtree (Brandon Everman), Amanda (Benny) Conrad, Ryan (Haleigh) Segress, Kylah Crabtree (Benjamin Sheehan), Jeremy Crabtree, Ashley Crabtree (Daryl Jones), Timara Crabtree, & Eliza Crabtree; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted at 2:00PM Wednesday, September 14 at Wells Funeral Home in Stanton. Visitation was held Wednesday, beginning at 10:00AM for family & 11:00AM for friends. Burial followed the funeral at the Crabtree Cemetery on North Fork Road in Stanton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Wells Funeral Home to cover the funeral expenses.

Shirley Dean Moore, 52, son of Shirley and Alma Moore, passed away Monday, September 5, 2022 at Clark Regional Medical Center, Winchester. He was born August 5, 1970 in Lexington to Shirley and Alma Wells Moore.

Survivors include, parents, Shirley and Alma Moore; son, Jordan Dean Moore; sisters, Sonja Stone and Khristen Rogers; grandchildren, Gable Moore and Audy Moore; and nephew, Jamie Stone. Services were held on Tuesday, September 6, 2:00PM Kennon Cemetery.

Shelby Gene Overbee, age 85, husband of Helen Joyce Rogers Overbee of Stanton, Kentucky passed away on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 on the Mountain Parkway in Clark County.  Born in Jackson, Kentucky he was the son of the late George and Ida Watkins Overbee.  Shelby was a former carpenter with Danville Acoustical Company and a member of the Morris Creek Missionary Baptist Church.  He loved laughing, playing jokes and was loved and respected by everyone that knew him. He loved his family very much and his main focus was his faithfulness to God. Shelby loved being around animals and he was known for being a great fisherman.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his two brothers: Ollie Overbee and J.D. Overbee; five sisters: Gladys Haddix, Janlee Graham, Mary Combs, Gertrude Combs and Dorothy Scott and one grandchild, Jamie Miller.

Along with his wife he is survived by his four daughters, Debbie Cummins of Mt. Sterling, Sheila (Frank) Sama of Hendersonville, North Carolina, Shelda Watts of Stanton and Sereace Covey of Stanton; five stepsons: Greg Haddix of Middletown, Ohio, Barry (Winna) Bryant of Clay City, Darryl (Tina) Bryant of Independence, Keith Bates of Stanton and Marty (Sarah) Bates of Erlanger; ten grandchildren: Dustin Miller, Jason Sama, Justin Sama, Marie Edwards, Laura Watts, Daniel Watts, Jonathan Covey, Gregory Haddix, Jennifer Singer and Jeremy Haddix and nine great grandchildren.

Funeral services officiated by Bro. Nicholas Wright were held at 7:00 P.M. Friday, September 9, 2022 at Hearne Funeral Home Inc., 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, KY.  Visitation was held also on Friday from 5:00 P.M. until service time at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Resthaven Cemetery at a later date with Dustin Miller, Jason Sama, Justin Sama, Daniel Watts, Jonathan Covey and Drew Edwards serving as pallbearers.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home, Inc.

Harold Wayne Smith, 63, passed away Monday, September 5, 2022 at his home. He was born December 20, 1958 in Kansas to the late Clarence and Nettie Watson Smith.

Survivors include, daughter, Kimberly (Rollie Carpenter) Smith; step-sons, Matthew Vires and David Vires; brother, Mark Shannon (Kim) Smith; grandchildren, Jennifer Johnson, Sophia Carpenter, and Rollie J.M. Carpenter.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Clarence Steven Smith, and sister, Mary Ann Smith. Services  were held on Saturday, September 10, 11:00AM Wells Funeral Home.

Visitation Friday 6-8pm at the funeral home. Burial in Cobb Hill Cemetery with Rollie Carpenter, John Watson, John Watson Jr., Greg Watson, Matthew Vires, and David Vires. Honorary pallbearers, Jeff Titus.

Summer Reading Program Makes a Splash at PCPL

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By: brandon tipton

 

They’ve had a whale of a time at the Powell County Public Library this summer. The summer reading program, an Ocean of Possibilities, was a big success. Books were read, prizes were given and as usual it was widely supported by the community. It was an impressive achievement considering the library recently underwent a pretty significant staff turnover. At the end of May, six members of the Powell County Library staff tendered their resignations, leaving behind only Daphne Sparkman  and Susan Combs to complete the transition. Luckily the board of trustees were able to find a wealth of experience from other venues.

Charlotte Denniston and Suzy Brown where hired to be the new co-directors of PCPL. Charlotte was a librarian and Clay City Elementary before retiring and Suzy was a librarian at the high school. Audrey Hackworth is the new Teen and Adult Programmer, she taught at Clay City Elementary. Elizabeth Hughes is the new children’s programmer, she was a teacher and librarian with Estill County Schools. Dottie Pelfrey and Lynne Barnes rounded out the new team, taking on the roles of circulation clerk and financial officer for the library. Lynne was a bookkeeper for Clay City Elementary and Dottie has 26 years of experience in professional management programs.

The staff have big plans for the future of the library.  As mentioned in a previous edition of the Times, the Library has purchased a plot of land between Well’s Funeral Home and Stonegate Cemetery to build a new library building and that project is still in the works. Charlotte and Suzy also have plans for the bookmobile parked on the edge of Clay City that was used as a wifi hotspot during the early days of the pandemic, though the vehicle needs to be moved, the directors plan on utilizing it as small branch library. After some much needed repairs, the library’s functional bookmobile is ready to hit the roads again. Keep an eye on the community calendar page to a schedule of stops. The staff is also working in conjunction with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to expand the program to Powell County. Once the Imagination Library program is up and running, it will mail children books beginning at birth until they reach school age. The program helps foster an early love of reading in underprivileged children all around the country.

Obits

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Michele “Shelly” Marie Oertli, 68, wife of Bruce Oertli, passed away Saturday, August 27, 2022 at her home. She was born April 3, 1954 in Lima, Ohio to the late Warren Eugene and Patricia Halker Ritchie.

Survivors include, husband, Bruce Oertli; sons, Seth Turner and Lucas Turner; daughter Jessica Campbell; step-son, Cody Oertli; step-daughter, Heather Lovett; brother, Tom Ritchie; sister, Lynette Barry; 15 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Terry Ritchie. Celebration of life was held on Thursday, September 1, 6:00PM Middlefork Fire Department.

Judy Kay Anderson, 55, passed away Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at the University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington from Cancer. She was born November 8, 1966 in Ohio to the late Floyd and Rebecca Jane Burkett Baker.

Survivors include, daughter, Christy (Mike) Gabbard; son, Gary Wayne Fouch; brothers, Floyd David (Michelle) Baker, Donald Joseph (Pam) Baker, and James Edward (Ida) Baker; sister, Rebecca June (Josh) Davis; grandchildren, Morgan Raylee Gabbard, Christopher Michael Gabbard, and William Payton Gabbard; great-granddaughter, Charlee Willow Rose Gabbard and several loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Robert Lee Baker. Services were held on Friday, September 2, 1:00PM Wells Funeral Home.

Students, Staff, and Safety First In Powell Co.

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By: Lisa Johnson

On May 24, 2022, a mass shooting occurred at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, where 18-year-old Salvador Ramos fatally shot nineteen students and two teachers, and wounded seventeen others. Forever changing this community and the families involved. This tragedy is something no town or community can prepare for. But there are some that have and continue to do so.

On August 1, 2022, House Bill 63 went into effect statewide in Kentucky. If you aren’t familiar with Bill 63, it simply states that Kentucky schools are to require the assignment of school resource officers to schools by August 1. This law was created to insure that each school has a Resource School Officer on-site in case there is any potential danger or threat to any students or staff on campus.

The world is a scary place right now, and after keeping our children home for nearly two years during the pandemic, solely to keep them safe, being told that we now have to send them back out to face unknown danger seems like a tough decision.

But there is a bright light in all of this, Powell Co. has been taking these measures since 2019. Each morning, before students arrive, SR Officers are on campus, assessing and monitoring. As the students make their way to classes and settle in for the start of their day these officers check and make sure doors are secure. These officers, who are required to complete additional SR training, work with staff and administration to make sure they have a plan for any and all types of emergency. Whether the threat is a man-made or a natural disaster. Officers are responsible for all five campuses, three elementary schools and the middle and high school.

I was fortunate enough to spend some time this morning with Officers Phillip Frazier  and Detective Billy Rice, to get a better picture of what this means to our community, it was made clear that Stanton City Police Department, lead by Chief Grant Faulkner and Mayor Dale Allen have made this their number one priority, they want the students to feel safe, they want the staff to feel safe, and they want the parents and families to know that there are on site, not a phone call away, no hesitation. They know these children, their kids have been in these same halls and classrooms, and that’s just how small towns work.

Officer Frazier, who brings over 20 years of law enforcement service to Stanton PD, says “This is my number one priority, to make sure everyone is safe”.

Powell County has shown that they are ahead of the curve, securing that students and staff’s safety are a priority every day.

Obits

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Minnie Dee Setters, 95, of Mt. Sterling passed away Wednesday, August 24, 2022 at the Winsor Care Nursing Center. She was born March 25, 1927 in Mt. Sterling to Dee and Minnie Lee Horseman. She was a homemaker and a member of the Church of Christ. She is survived by three sons James Setters and wife Shirley of Mt. Sterling, Tommy Setters and wife Jennifer of Mt. Sterling, Barry Setters of Mt. Sterling and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Burial will be held in the Machpelah Cemetery in Mt. Sterling. Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City is in charge.

Donna Meade, 68, of Mt. Sterling, passed away Monday, August 22, 2022. She was born March 7, 1954 in Harlan, KY to Hubert and Una Meade. She was a homemaker. She is survived by two sons Roger Stewart of Mt. Sterling, John Hurst of Richmond, a daughter Melissa Hidalgo and husband Edi of Mt. Sterling, nine grandchildren, six great grandchildren, two brothers Kenneth Meade and wife Joann of Winchester, David Meade and wife Sue of Lexington, three sisters Virginia Holland and husband Kenneth of Lexington, Catherine Seiring and husband Stanley of Lexington and Deborah Hunt and husband John of Jeffersonville. She was preceded in death by her parents Hubert and Una Meade and a sister Dehronda Himes. Funeral services were held at 1 PM Thursday, August 25, 2022 at the Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City with Bro Steve McGuire and Bro. Roger McGuire officiating. Friends visited Thursday from 11AM till 1PM. Burial was in the McGuire Cemetery in Jeffersonville. Grayson Funeral Home is in charge of services.

Naomi Elizabeth Profitt, age 77, wife of Arlie James Profitt passed away at her home on Monday, August 22, 2022.  She was born in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky and was the daughter of the late Norman Douglas Sparks and the late Virginia Stratton Sparks.  Naomi worked in several positions in her lifetime being a deli manager at Food Town, working for Tie the Knot Bridal Shop, Pendleton’s Florist, served in housekeeping at Clark Regional Hospital and from time to time cleaning individual’s homes.  She was an avid church attender and loved singing in church and also playing the piano and guitar.  She was also preceded in death by two brothers: Paul Sparks and David Sparks. Along with her husband she is survived by one son, Ray Profitt of Clay City, one brother, Silas (Betty) Sparks of Clay City; one sister Mary (Rodney) Crowe of Stanton; two grandchildren: Ashley (Scott) Profitt and Brandon Profitt; three great grandchildren: Lincoln Harrison, Jaxson Harrison and Gabriel Harrison and step grand daughter: Michelle Tipton, Sabrina Harrison and Summer Harrison.  Funeral services officiated by Bro. Dale Payne and Bro. Sammy Faulkner will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday, August 26, 2022 at Hearne Funeral Home Inc. in Stanton.  Visitation was held on Thursday, August 25, 2022 from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at the funeral home as well.  Burial was in Stonegate Cemetery with Scott Harrison, Josh Sparks, Dwight Trent, Seth Trent, Tanner Rogers, David Crowe, Carlos Thompson and Dustin McClure serving as active pallbearers.  Honorary pallbearers are Brandon Profitt, Matthew Creech and all of her extended church family.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home.

Annette Bowen Billings, age 98 of Stanton, Ky, passed peacefully from this life unto her eternal home in Heaven on August 26, 2022 surrounded by her loving family. Annette was born on August 2, 1924 to Russell and Emma Jane Bowen in Lee County Kentucky. Annette grew up in Lee and Powell counties and graduated from Powell County High School in 1940. After graduation, Annette went to work for Wright-Patterson Airforce Base in Dayton, Ohio in the Document Management Office. Soon after employment, Annette was promoted to Office Manager. George W. “Cappie” Billings, Jr. and Annette were married on January 20, 1945. Annette moved to Long Beach, California, and lived there while Cappie’s ship was stationed on the west coast. Once Cappie’s tour of duty in the Navy was complete, they returned to Stanton, KY and she resided there for over 72 years. Annette and Cappie had three children, Russell Burton “Rusty”, George Stephen “Steve”, and Sheila Anne “Anne.” Annette made a profession of faith and accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at a young age and faithfully served at Stanton Baptist Church for over 65 years teaching Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and serving on various church committees. She was also active in the community and was a member of the Powell County Homemakers Club and the Powell County Women’s Club. Annette served as Powell County Deputy County Court Clerk for three terms and was the editor of the Powell County Herald. Annette is preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Emma Jane Hobbs Bowen, her husband, and one son, Rusty Billings. Annette was also preceded in death by nine brothers and sisters: Warren Bowen, Jeckyl Bowen Spencer, Forrest Bowen, Garrett Bowen, Kenneth Bowen, James Bowen, Lois Jean Bowen Rogers, Russell Bowen, Jr., and Yvonne Bowen. Annette is survived by two children: Steve (Claudeen) Billings, of Winchester, and Anne (Chuck) Burgess of Midway; two grandchildren: Brian (Carmen) Billings of Lexington, and Sarah (Victor) Lee of Danville; three great-grandchildren: Brook (Josh) Depp of Louisville, Bo Billings of Lexington and Betsy Billings, Lexington. Annette also leaves behind two very special companions, Izzy and Buddy. Private service will be held at Hearne Funeral Home. Burial will be conducted at the Stanton Cemetery with John Bowen, Phillip Bowen, J.L. Bowen, Randy Bowen, Kenny Bowen, John P. Bowen, Craig Friel, Eric Cassidy, and Jonathon Skidmore serving as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Teresa Kinser, Debbie Gross, Darlene Watson, Scott Bowen, Kevin Bowen, Gary Bowen, Randy Bowen, Ruth Billings, Casey Billings, Dallas Pelfrey, David McIntosh, Miriam Smallwood, Phyllis Faulkner, Terry Martin, Sharon Mallory, Anna Rose Morehead, Rose Smith current and former employees and residents of Dominion Senior Living in Frankfort, employees of The Breckinridge, and Bluegrass Care Navigators. Annette will be laid to rest in the Stanton Cemetery, Stanton, KY. In lieu of flowers, donations to Samaritan’s Purse, Alzheimer’s Association, or Life House for Animals in Frankfort. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home.

Montford “Bud” Powell Sr. of Clay City husband of Patsy Watson Powell passed away Wednesday August 24, 2022 at his residents with his loving family by his side. He was born in Stanton December 13, 1941 to Everett and Sylvia Powell. Bud was very active in his community serving as a special Police Deputy, Clay City Fire Dept., a Kentucky Colonel, and was a member of the First Church of God.  He is survived by his Wife of 57 years Patsy Watson Powell, two sons Montford Powell JR and his wife Vivian of Clay City, Jesse Powell of Clay City, a daughter Sharon Lockard of Stanton, nine grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and a sister Geraldine Toney of Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents Everett and Sylvia Powell, eight brothers Ernest, Lonnie, Marshall, Denzil, Delmus, Elmer, Everett JR and MC Powell, five sisters Tersie Willoughby, Alba Wilhoit, Faye Goodwin, Marettia Briniger and Yavonne Stone. Funeral services will be held 1PM Saturday, August 27, 2022 at the Grayson Funeral Home in Clay City with Bro. James Combs officiating. Friends visited Friday, August 26, 2022 from 6 PM till 8 PM at the funeral home. Burial was in the West Bend Cemetery. Pallbearers Aaron Chadwick, Derrick Fletcher, BJ Hood, Jordan Powell, Montford Powell JR, Jesse Powell. Honorary pallbearers Powell County Sheriff’s Office, Clay City Fire Department and the Kentucky Colonels. Grayson Funeral Home is in charge of services.

Elwood “Can Man” Fugate 85 of Clay City passed away Wednesday, August 24, 2022 at his residence. He was born January 1, 1947 to the late Jerry and Edna (Parks) Fugate. He was a Veteran of the United State Army and a member of the Stanton Baptist Church. Elwood was a huge NASCAR fan and built and raced late model race cars, he also loved Preston Court Days and was a big U K fan. He is survived by his caregiver Jean Barnett, two sons Walter Fugate, Gary Fugate, a stepson Ricky Hibbs, two stepdaughters Judy Hibbs, Missy Faw, three grandchildren Travis Fugate, Eldoria Fugate, Farrell Fugate, and three step grandchildren Latosha Sexton, Richard Hibbs III, Trevor Faw, four brother’s Willie Fugate, Wardie Fugate, Vernon Fugate, Donald Fugate, three sister’s Dora McIntosh, Cassie Banks and Easter Mercer. He was preceded in death by his parents Jerry and Edna (Parks) Fugate and four brother’s James, Irvine, Frank and Roy Fugate. Funeral services were held 11 AM Friday, August 26, 2022, with visitation before the service at the Grayson Funeral Home Chapel in Clay City with Trevor Faw officiating. Grayson Funeral Home is in charge of services

Mildred Tolson Allen, 96 , of Stanton, KY departed this life for her Heavenly home on Wednesday August 24, 2022 at the Stanton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was born on October 30, 1925 in Campton, KY. She was preceded in death by the love of her life James E. “Jimmy” Allen, Jr. and the two started the first Drugstore in Powell County fittingly known as Powell County Drugs later becoming Allen Drugs. From the start of Allen Drugs, they would see three of their children become pharmacists with one continuing to become a medical doctor. She always supported her husband in his many business adventures through life which also include Allen Acres subdivision where she lived out her last years. She would be the first to tell anyone that Powell County was their home and the love they both had for our community was unwavering. Prior to her failing health she was always up and ready to visit with her friends and family at Vaughn’s Mill First Church of God where she worshiped for years. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents: Lula and Leonard Tolson, one son William Edwin Allen, Five sisters Blanch, Bertha, Anna, Helen and Myrtle. Daughter-in-laws: Carol Allen and Lynda Allen, granddaughters Jamie Lee Alexander and Jackie Ann Allen. Grandson: James Anthony Allen. She is survived by sons Jack E. Allen, Louisville, Michael R. (Dana) Allen, Stanton, James E. Allen III, Tampa, Florida, and one daughter: Brenda Gail (John) Brewer, Stanton. One sister, Faye (Larry) Richardson. Grandchildren : Brian (Lora) Allen, Chris Allen, John C. (Jill) Brewer II, Stephen K. (Michelle) Brewer, Jason Creech, April (Scott) Shupert, Amanda (Rick) Long, Deanna (Sean) Demma, and Alicia (John) Bowman, great grandchildren : Abigail Lee Alexander, Grant James Allen, Brandon Allen, Emily Allen, Rachel Allen, Jake Bowman, Robert Shupert, Rachel (Colin) Dunn, Seth Long, Sydney (Austin) Brinckmann, Kaitlyn (Andrew) Herring, Aidan James Brewer and John Alan Brewer, great-great grandchildren : Addison Brinckmann, Cohen Herring and Noah Herring .She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews and friends to mourn her passing. Graveside services were held Saturday, August 27, 2022 at 11:00 am at the Morris Creek Church of God Tabernacle.

Obits

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Alethea Renae King passed away August 21, 2022 at the age of 35. She is survived by her father, Kenneth Wayne Wireman; Companion, Daniel Slusher; Son, Daniel Slusher Jr.; Daughter, Summer Slusher; Brothers Kenneth Wayne Wireman Jr. and Robert Olinger; and Sisters, Shannon Curtis, Vanessa McIntosh, Jennifer Weir, and Stephanie Whitt. Visitation will be Wednesday, August 24, 2022 from 6-9 pm. Services will be Thursday. August 25 at 1:00 pm with Warren Rogers officiating. Pallbearers include Kenneth Wireman Jr, Nicholas Wireman, Chris Wireman, Wesley King, Josh Witt, Anthony Denniston, Dalton Plank, and Robert Olinger. Alethea King will be buried in Napier Cemetery in Stanton following her services.

Mary Elizabeth Hampton Baldock, 56, beloved wife of Steven Hugh Baldock, passed away Thursday, August 18, 2022. She was born 1965 in Winchester to the late Lawrence Hampton and Martha Hampton Roundtree. Mary was a 1983 graduate from Powell County High School, where she was active in the band, and was the captain of her cheerleading squad. She also was a University of Kentucky graduate where she earned her bachelor and masters of education, and was a member of the Alpha Xi Delta sorority. Mary began her teaching career at Powell County High school where she taught math. She was an academic sponsor, cheerleading coach, and sponsor of the National Honors Society. Mary taught in Powell County until 2001 where she moved to Spencer County. She then began teaching at Spencer County High School where she taught until her illness began. Mary was the chair of the math department, National Honor Society sponsor, national board certified teacher, and a Kentucky Colonel. She was an adjunct professor for Campbellsville University where she started a dual credit college algebra program for the students of SCHS. Mary always cared about helping others, she often did community service with her husband, and her favorite hobby was tutoring students one on one where she not only helped with their math but encouraged them to achieve their goals. She was an avid UK fan, she and Steve always enjoyed cheering on their wildcats attending all the football games and watching basketball games from home. Mary was always happy she married a Kentucky letterman from her alma mater. Mary was best known for her smile. She always thought she could change the world with her smile. Her infectious happiness made everyone around her feel her love. She had a thankful heart always stating she had a wonderful marriage and a good life.

She is survived by her husband of 23 years, Steve Baldock; mother, Martha Hampton Roundtree; sister, Mona (Dorsey) Hall; and many other family members and friends.

Services Saturday, August 27, 1:00PM Wells Funeral Home, 777 West College Ave., Stanton. Visitation Friday 5-8pm and Saturday 10am-1pm at the funeral home. Mary wanted to send a special thank you to the Spencer County High School bear family for helping her achieve her bucket list of dreams in the last phase of her life.

Mr. Eugene Rice, 58, of Clay City, KY passed away Wednesday, August 17, 2022 at Clark Regional Medical Center in Winchester. He was born October 17, 1963 in Kassel, Germany to Walter & Marianne Helten Rice. He was a member of the Black Belt Hall of Fame.

In addition to his parents, Eugene is survived by his son Cody Rice.

Funeral services were held at Wells Funeral Home (formerly Davis & Davis  Funeral Home) in Stanton, KY on Saturday, August 20th at 1PM. Bro. M.C. Rice will officiated. Visitation was also held Saturday, beginning at 10AM for family and 11AM for friends.

Burial will follow the funeral at Elkin Cemetery in Clay City.

School Board Meeting Packed as Parents Question Resignation of Popular Principal

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By: Lisa Johnson

The regularly scheduled meeting of the Powell County Board of education was held Tuesday, August 16, in the library of the Powell County Middle School. This meeting marked Sarah Wasson’s first meeting as superintendent and it was a lively one.  Parents and students came with one questions on their minds, why did principal Wallace Bates resign?

Parent Jennifer Drake Thacker read a speech prepared by her daughter Senior Sophia Drake,  Other community members Anthony Molihan, Lisa Billings, Monty Witkline, Jimmy Smith, and Ben Lifton all expressed concern. It is unclear as to why Principal Bates  resigned, Board Member Mendal Tipton stated ”I am at a loss for words and have no answer at this time.”

PCHS Seniore Classman, Connor Todd had this to say, “In my three years at PCHS, the two things I’ve always wanted was student involvement and change. Change for our sports programs and change to better our school. Wallace Bates was the only person who not only met my wishes but exceeded them. At our first meeting together, he talked about all the things he wanted to do for our school. One of my favorites (congress) gave students a voice and the opportunity to change the things we wanted to within our school. With his help, we also created the pirates media team. This is how we have communicated with students before school even started and the results have been amazing. In the few short weeks I’ve worked with Mr. Bates, he has made such an impact on me.

The results of today have left me in shock and I have a question for our district administration, why do you not want change? Mr. Bates only wanted good things for our school and I fully believed in him to successfully change our school for the better. So why couldn’t you put your trust in him like we did?

Thank you Mr. Bates for everything. And to our district administration, losing Mr. Bates is not only a loss for the high school but a loss for the community and future.”

Superintendent Sarah Wasson released the following statement the next day on Facebook, “At last night’s Board meeting many topics came up during public comments that were related to the day to day operations of the district and were not business the Board can get involved in. This is not to say that our Board members cannot or should not hear your concerns, but the Board can never get involved with personnel issues and I cannot discuss specific personnel action either. In my opinion, the discussions that happened last night are not the most productive means to solving problems in our district. The school level administration should be the first line of assistance for most issues in the district. The principals and SBDM council make much of the school policies and procedures and can best answer your questions. As superintendent it is my responsibility to ensure resources are in place where needed, policy and procedure is followed, and the day to day operations of the district are carried out. I am attaching photo clips from the KSBA Leadership Guide explaining the main duties of the Board and the main duties of the Superintendent to help explain what I meant by saying much of the conversation was my responsibility to address and a Board meeting was not the best place to do so.

At the meeting, one gentleman asked how to get questions answered and I responded that my door is always open. To ensure I’m not already scheduled with someone, you might reach out ahead to schedule a time to meet with me but if I’m not with someone and you stop by I will be glad to have a conversation. I also mentioned that a Town Hall might be a good way to express group concerns and let more people give input and possible solutions at the same time. I was hoping to get a little more time of observation throughout the district before holding my first Town Hall so I could provide better answers, but after the meeting last night I think it is better to hold a Town Hall sooner than later.

If you are interested in attending our first Town Hall meeting and have a concern you would like addressed, please complete the form below so that we can choose the topics, prioritize the discussion, and be able to provide the most accurate responses at the meeting. We cannot change the past, so please focus on current concerns and areas that we need to improve as a district to make Powell County rise to the top. Monday of next week we will set up the date, time, and location of the meeting and will get information out to the public.

Thank you,

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