Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society

Directions Website

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

10/30/2026

Ralph F. Tyler, of Arlington, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, Kentucky. He was born on November 1, 1937, to William R Tyler and Lucy Lambert Tyler.

Ralph F. Tyler graduated from Milburn High School in Kentucky in 1956, where he played both baseball and basketball. Shortly after graduation, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he attained the rank of Specialist Sergeant E-5. While serving in Washington, D.C., he met his future wife, who worked for the FBI. They were married for 53 years before her passing in 2014.

Ralph worked for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company for more than 30 years before retiring. He was a University of Kentucky basketball fan and enjoyed checking on his cows, whom he affectionately called his “girls.” He also enjoyed meeting his friends each morning for coffee and a sausage biscuit. Ralph was known for his kind and generous nature, his welcoming personality, and the smile he so often shared with others. He enjoyed talking with people and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. His morning conversations with his buddies were a regular part of his routine, and they liked to say they had the “wealth of knowledge.”

Ralph was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church, where he served as secretary and Sunday school teacher. He also served as president of Arlington Post American Legion 0250 for a time and as president of the Carlisle County Senior Citizens Center for approximately 10 years.

Ralph is survived by sons, Ralph “Jaye” Tyler Jr. (Debbie Stricklin) of Bardwell, Michael “Horse” W. Tyler of Arlington, and John (Karen) Tyler of Mayfield; his daughter, Lisa Mary Tyler of Indianapolis; two sisters, Bettie Ferguson of Arlington, and Helen (Phillip) Hocker of Arlington; brothers, Kenneth Tyler and LH (Mary Jane) Tyler, both of Arlington; four grandchildren, Austin (Danielle) Tyler of Benton, Alan Tyle; four great- grandchildren, Emmanuel James Tyler, Mazi Katherine Tyler, Jase Tyler, Elliott Tyler; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Elinor Stodolak Tyler; one sister, Dottie Ivey; two brothers, James Tyler and Robert Tyler; and his parents.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 2, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Arlington, with Bro. Glen Stewart and Bro. Mark Lambert officiating. Burial will follow at Arlington Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the service time of 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Arlington.

10/30/2026

Judith Harolyn Tucker passed away peacefully at her home in Paducah, Kentucky, on October 26, 2026. She was born on October 23, 1942, to Harold Leslie Phelps and Sunshine Elizabeth (Jones) Phelps.

Harolyn graduated from Reidland High School in 1960 and earned her bachelor’s degree from Murray State University in 1964. She continued her education throughout her career, earning her master’s degree and completing an additional 30 graduate hours beyond her master’s.

Harolyn married Morris Wayne Tucker in 1964 and enjoyed their devoted marriage for 56 years until his passing in 2020.

Teaching was Harolyn’s passion and calling. She began her 30-year career as an educator in the Ballard County School District and later taught at Heath High School before moving to Reidland Middle School, where she taught for more than 25 years. She dedicated her life to encouraging students to learn, grow, and become the best versions of themselves.

Harolyn was deeply passionate about her community and served on several community boards, including as president of the Retired Teachers Association. She was also honored with the distinction of Kentucky Colonel, recognizing her contributions and service.

A talented and creative artist, Harolyn seemed to excel at nearly anything she tried. She enjoyed quilting, knitting, and painting, and even taught painting classes. Some of her fondest memories were made traveling and painting alongside a special group of women who shared her love of art and adventure.

Above all, Harolyn will be remembered for her greatest gift: teaching. Whether in a classroom, through her art, or in everyday life, she constantly encouraged those around her to be better and do better. She believed in standing up for what you believe in, embracing life's opportunities, and having the courage to forge your own path.

Her boldness and independent spirit were perhaps best captured by her favorite saying: “Ask forgiveness, not permission.”

Harolyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Morris Wayne Tucker; her sister, Elizabeth “Tippy” Wicker; and her parents.

She is survived by her daughter, Bethany Tucker and wife, Wendi Elton; her dear cousin, Susan Carr, and husband, Lewis; Morgan Hall and husband, Les Hall; and her “grandkids,” Mason Hall and Layla Parker, who will cherish the memories and lessons she leaves behind.

A private family service to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, an organization dedicated to inspiring a love of reading in children.

10/28/2026

Jackie Lee Beasley of La Center passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Providence Pointe Health Care in Paducah due to complication of brain cancer. He was born June 30, 1946, to Ray and Mary Kate Stanley Beasley.

Jack remained in La Center his entire life except when he was serving his country in the Army in Viet Nam. He was known for his gentle nature, outgoing personality, and never met a stranger.

Jack was a family man, lived his life for each and every one of them. Jack enjoyed riding his golf cart with his best little furry companion, Izzy. Jack dearly loved his family and friends; he will certainly be missed by all that had the pleasure and privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his wife and best friend of 58 years, Sandra Beasley of La Center; two sons, Jackie Ray Beasley (Christy) of Louisville and Kevin Beasley of LaCenter; Bonus daughter, Theresa Chandler; eight grandchildren, Taylor, Trent, Ashton, Brant, Carson, Jayden, Amber and Tyler Chandler; six great grandchildren, Aubree, Cayden, Nova Lee, Armari, Chase and Nylah; a brother Carthel (Effie) Beasley; and an abundance of nieces and nephews as well as a host of friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Raymond Beasley, J.T. Beasley, Ralph Beasley; sisters, Gladys and Estelle; in laws, Herbert and Ola Mae; and his parents.

There will be no services at this time. Jack's family will have a memorial service at a later date.

10/22/2026

Tony Watwood, of Smithland, KY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, TN. Born on November 2, 1966, he was the beloved son of the late Donald and Cheryl (Peyton) Watwood.

Tony served with pride as a Navy veteran for four years. Known for his dedication, he was a respected member of the Central Midwest Carpenters Union in Paducah, KY. He approached life with a passion, always finding joy in traveling and riding his Harley.

Three years ago, Tony embraced his faith by accepting the Lord as his Savior and was baptized, a commitment he honored by reading his Bible daily. His family was his greatest treasure, and he cherished every moment spent with them, particularly his grandchildren.

He leaves behind his fiancée, Andrea Caldwell of Smithland; two sons, Steven Watwood of Paducah, and Ricky Curvin of Jacksonville, FL; a daughter, Toni Jo Tadlock (David) of Paducah; two brothers, Todd Watwood of La Center, and Tracy Watwood (Kristie) of Benton; eight grandchildren, Chloe, Joseph, Kara, Sokka, Sofi, Bella, Damien, and Sakeen; two nephews, Quade Watwood and Trayson Watwood; and one niece, Whitley Wortham (Sam).

Tony was preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends are invited to attend visitation on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center, officiated by Rev. Larry Purcell.

Interment will follow at Barlow Cemetery in Barlow.

10/22/2026

Timothy Wayne Brown went home peacefully in his sleep on October 20th, 2026 at the Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, Kentucky. He was born in Paducah, Kentucky on October 8, 1972, to Wayne and Linda Brown.

During his 54 years, he touched many lives through his vast knowledge of hunting, fishing, coins, trees, birds, and flowers, especially daffodils. He was a walking encyclopedia. Tim knew the names of every bird, tree, and plant. He was a steward of the land. People were in awe of his horticulture displays of beauty on his farm. They visited from as far away as New Zealand to see his plantings. His farm was truly a botanical garden, a little bit of heaven on earth.

Tim graduated Summa Cum Laude from Murray State University in 2018 with a degree in horticulture. Tim was employed at the Wickliffe Paper Mill for 28 years.

Tim is survived by his wife of 29 years, Heather Brown of Wickliffe; his sons Hunter Brown and Logan Brown of Wickliffe; his mother, Linda Brown of Wickliffe; his sister Tracy (John) Davidson of Wickliffe; and his sister Lorrinda (Dale) Guetersloh of Metropolis, Illinois.

He was proceeded in death by his father, Wayne Brown of Wickliffe.

The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to the Compasses Hospice nurses at Mercy Health.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 pm on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Wickliffe with Rev. Drew Gray officiating. Burial will follow at Old Bardwell Cemetery in Bardwell, Kentucky.

Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the service time of 1:00 pm on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, Expressions of Sympathy may be made in the form of contributions to Mercy Health Hospice, 1530 Lone Oak Rd, Paducah KY, 42003.

10/22/2026

Deborah Johnson Lemons, lovingly known as Debbie, passed away on October 16, 2026, in Bardwell, Kentucky. She was born on April 6, 1965, in Mayfield, Kentucky, to Richard Johnson and Linda Evans.

Debbie was of the Baptist faith. Debbie found her greatest joy in the simple, meaningful things that made a house feel like home. Her life was centered around her family, and she cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren, who brought her immense happiness and pride. Debbie especially loved being at home with her family, where she created a sense of comfort, care, and belonging.

One of Debbie’s favorite pastimes was crocheting, and she took great joy in using her hands to create something beautiful and useful for the people she loved. She especially enjoyed making baby blankets for family members whenever a child was born.

Debbie is survived by her two sons, Josh Lemons of Bardwell, and Daniel (Sarah) Lemons of Sedalia, Missouri; her daughter, Rachel (John) Phelan of Bardwell; three grandchildren, Vance Phelan, Sadie Lemons, and Sydney Lemons; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Penny Evans, and her parents.

Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Bardwell are in charge of arrangements.

10/13/2026

Lola Willis Williams, of Arlington, Kentucky, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Southgate Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Metropolis, Illinois. She was born May 15, 1944, to Lester and Agnes Willis.

As a young girl, Lola enjoyed singing and was part of a quartet with her sister and several other young ladies. Music was one of the many experiences that helped shape her early years. She continued her education with hopes of becoming a registered nurse, but life led her in a different direction. Instead, Lola established her own computer business, which she operated successfully for many years. She specialized in utility billing and worked with technology during a time when computers were enormous, even having a computer that took up an entire room. Her work reflected her dedication, knowledge, and willingness to embrace new opportunities.

One of Lola’s greatest joys in life was traveling with her beloved husband, Marvin. The two enjoyed riding their motorcycle from coast to coast, making an annual trip across the country each year. As they grew older, they continued their adventures in a motorhome, traveling from east to west and creating countless memories along the way. Their three dogs accompanied them on their travels, making their journeys even more special. Traveling together was their favorite pastime, and the adventures they shared were a treasured part of their life together.

Lola was also a talented and creative woman who enjoyed knitting and crocheting beautiful Afghans for others. She used her computer skills and creativity to make videos for weddings and funerals for friends and family, helping preserve special memories and honor meaningful moments in the lives of those she loved. Whether through her handiwork, her talents, or simply the warmth of her presence, Lola found ways to show others how much she cared.

Above all, Lola will be remembered for her loving heart, her outgoing personality, and the joy she brought into the lives of others. She lived a life filled with love, adventure, creativity, and cherished memories. Her kindness and the friendships she built throughout her life will remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Lola is survived by her husband of 28 years, Marvin Williams; three sons, Richard (Cathy) Carroll of Benton, Kentucky, Brad (Tina) Carroll of Benton, and Daniel Carroll of Benton; two sisters, Carol Barendregt and Teresa Orth; brothers, Lester (Deni) Willis and Kenneth Willis; her grandchildren, Logan Carroll, Chaten Carroll, and Ashley Carroll; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her sisters, Barbara Carlisle, Helen Watson, & Brenda Kay Willis; one brother, Jim Willis; and her parents.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell. Burial will follow at Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery in Arlington, Kentucky.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the service time of 12:00 p.m. also on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Bardwell.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis Tennessee 38105.

10/13/2026

Ada Lou Hook, of Kevil, KY, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2026, at Baptist Health in Paducah, KY. Born on October 8, 1937, in Kevil, she was the cherished daughter of the late Jesse F. and Mary Estelle (Long) Hook.

Ada Lou was a devoted member of Kevil Baptist Church and had a deep passion for UK Basketball. Her love for travel was evident in her many bus trips to different destinations. Alongside her special companion, Ed Walker, she delighted in managing the concession stand at the Ballard County Ballfields for numerous years.

She is survived by her brother, Billy Gene Hook and his wife, Diana, of Kevil, KY; her nephew, Frankie Hook; her niece, Jami Seaton and her husband, Joey; her great-niece and nephew, Shelby and Steven Seaton.

Ada Lou was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Gus, Harry Lee, and Bobby Hook, and her beloved companion Ed Walker.

Graveside services will be held at Woodville Cemetery in Kevil on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Rev. Jonathon Althoff.

10/08/2026

Michael “Mike” Alan Thomas, of West Paducah, KY, passed away on September 22, 2026, at UK Medical Center in Lexington, KY. Born on April 12, 1952, to Merle and Norma Gene (Hall) Thomas, Michael was a cherished member of La Center Christian Church.

Mike was a graduate of BMHS Class of 1970. He dedicated many years to Illinois Central Gulf Railroad before starting his own business, Thomas Painting. Michael found joy in traveling, photography, and cheering for UK sports, but his greatest love was for his children and grandchildren.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Lynne Thomas of West Paducah; his mother, Norma Gene Thomas of Sadiewille, KY; a son, Jared Thomas (Amanda) of Cincinnati, OH; two daughters, Brittney Thomas of Lexington, and Kaitlyn Stevens (John) of Palm Coast, FL; two brothers, Gary Thomas of Lovelaceville, and Rodney Thomas (Kim) of Erlanger, KY; a sister, Sandra Sebastian of Sadieville, KY; and four grandchildren, Johnny Stevens, Kash Stevens, Braxton Thomas, and Wyatt Thomas.

He was preceded in death by his father, Merle Thomas, and sister, Debbie Swafford.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at Morrow Funeral Chapel in La Center, KY, officiated by Rev. Chris Cooper.

Memorial contributions may be made to La Center Christian Church or The Cure Starts Now, 102 Chester Road, Cincinnati Ohio 45215.

The family expresses their gratitude to Oakview Nursing Home in Calvert City and Lexington Hospice for their compassionate care.

10/01/2026

Janie King High, of Bardwell, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday September 26, 2026. She was born November 2, 1946, to Cecil and Gracie King.

Janie graduated from Carlisle County High School and dedicated much of her life to her family, raising her children and being a homemaker until they began school.

She later began working as a teacher’s aide at the same school she had attended as a student. She eventually became the secretary at Carlisle County High School, where she worked until her retirement.

Janie was a talented and creative person who enjoyed crafting of all kinds. She loved sewing, puzzles, craft painting and stained glass. If there was a new craft she could try, she was always willing to give it a try. She also enjoyed sharing her talents with others and helped teach sewing classes through Carlisle County 4-H.

When she wasn’t crafting, Janie enjoyed spending time fishing. She will be remembered for her love of her family, her creativity, and the many things she enjoyed doing with her hands and heart.

Janie is survived by her sons, Robert (Karla) High of Mayfield, and Michael High of Bardwell; sister, Helen Maynard of Arlington; three grandchildren, Brandon (Valerie) High of Mayfield, Maegan (Jeremiah) Despain of Campbellsville, Kentucky, and Erika High of Mayfield; and four great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Buddy High; her sister, Ruth Carrington; and her parents.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Roselawn Cemetery in Bardwell, Kentucky.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Carlisle County 4-H, PO Box 518, Bardwell KY, 42023.

Address

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

Opening Hours

9am - 4pm

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Ballard-Carlisle Historical and Genealogical Society posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Nearby government services

Other Public & Government Services in Wickliffe

Show All