Obituaries

Billy R. Rose, age 79, of Williamsburg, KY, passed away Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at his home. He was born October 5, 1945 in Whitley County, KY, to the late Caleb and Joie Lambdin Rose. Along with his parents he was preceded in death by three brothers, Clyde Rose, James Rose, Earl Rose; one sister, Juanita Anderson; and two nephews, Cale Rose, and Jerry Holloway. He is survived by his lifelong friend, Mildred Rose of Williamsburg, KY; daughter, Ginger Nunley (Buell) of Pineville, KY; three grandchildren, Vanessa Creekmore (Nick) of Newcomb, TN, Whitney Merrick (Al) of Pineville, KY, and Brittney Layne of Pineville, KY; five great-grandchildren, Makenna Creekmore, Luke Merrick, Emmitt...

Wilma Baird, 89, a loving and humble woman, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025 at Baptist Health - Lexington. Wilma lived a full and rich life that was dedicated to her family, friends, and the pursuit of her passion for antiquing, a hobby she nurtured for over 60 years. Her devotion to family and friends was the cornerstone of her life, and her love for them was as enduring as the precious antiques she sought. She was an educator for several years in the Whitley County School District. Wilma is survived by her children, Teresa Williams and husband Bill of Corbin, KY, and Michael Baird and wife Maureen of Williamsburg, KY;...

Janet Lynn Overton, was born on September 27, 1954, the daughter of Joseph Overton and Anna Sue Rutherford. She went home to be with Jesus on April 28, 2025. While a homebody at heart, thanks to her Air Force father, Janet lived in Florida, Kansas, Mississippi, Ohio, Louisiana, and Okinawa Japan—but Jellico, Tennessee was always her undisputed home. Janet loved making desserts, birdwatching, sewing, and making mischief. She loved Jesus and loved listening to southern gospel music. Janet is preceded in death by her father, Joseph Overton; her mother, Anna Sue Overton; her sister, Pamela Jo Overton King,; and her nephew, DJ King. She leaves behind her brother, Paul (Rachel) Overton; two nieces,...

It is with a heavy heart and much sorrow that we announce the passing of a beloved father, brother, and friend, Dennis Curnutt. Born on March 25, 1951, in Harlan, KY, Dennis lived a life full of love, dedication, and passion. He was a man of great character and strength, always leading by example, and never shying away from lending a helping hand. His love for the outdoors was evident in his fondness for fishing and his unwavering dedication to the US Air Force, a proud service he never failed to mention. Dennis radiated warmth and kindness wherever he went, deeply touching lives and leaving a lasting imprint on the hearts...

Dr. Oline Carmical, Jr., of Corbin, Kentucky, departed this earthly life, April 8, 2025, with family at his side. Oline was the only child of Oline Carmical, Sr., and Minta Powell Carmical, formally of Evarts and Harlan in Harlan County, Kentucky. Oline was a lifelong member of Evarts Baptist Church. Oline is survived by his wife of 57 years, Shirley Rhymer Carmical, his daughter, Veronica Reagan Carmical and the spirit of a myriad of devoted pets from Lobo, the wolf, to his GSD, Emma, a natural empath. Oline had a quick wit, intolerance for the mistreatment of others and a lifelong pursuit to learn. He had an incredible encyclopedic wealth of knowledge...

Curtis Leach, age 62, of Williamsburg, KY, passed away peacefully at Baptist Health Corbin after a brief battle with cancer. He was born December 29, 1962 in Jellico, TN to the late Roy Curtis Sr. and Carolyn Anderson Leach. Along with his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Vickie Marie Leach, Teresa Louise Lambdin; and a brother-in-law, Carl Lambdin. He is survived by his daughter, Carmen Leach (Tanner) of Palm Harbor, FL; significant other, Susie Myers of Williamsburg, KY; two sisters, Pamela Washington (Barry) of Jackson, MS, and Tammy Cupp (Gary) of Williamsburg, KY; three brothers, Scott Leach (Angie) of Elizabethtown, KY, Jeff Leach (Connie) of Russell Springs, KY,...

Joseph Donald Faulkner — affectionately known as J’Don — passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, in the comforting presence of family and love. Born on June 24, 1936, J’Don lived a full and extraordinary life, defined by boundless creativity, heartfelt compassion, and an unwavering dedication to his family, community, and church. A true renaissance man, J’Don embraced many roles throughout his life — schoolteacher, artist, choral director, musician, and businessman. He had a remarkable gift for storytelling, often holding court with tales that captivated every ear in the room. Whether through a heartfelt song, a brushstroke on canvas, or simply his radiant presence, J’Don brought light and energy wherever...

Larry Wayne Sawyers I, born December 17, 1953, entered his eternal home on April 21, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A hardworking man who took immense pride in his family, Wayne lived a life full of devotion, love, and quiet strength. Wayne is survived by his best friend, Lois Sawyers of Corbin, KY. Together they built a life grounded in faith, family, and unwavering love. He leaves behind three beloved children, Cathy Hays (Kevin) of Williamsburg, KY, Samantha Melton (Jeremy) of Decatur, AL, and Larry Wayne Sawyers II of Corbin, KY. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Melissa Bundy (John), Alexis Maurer (Maikie), Tayiah Gray (Jaron), Alyssa Sawyers, and...

Tommy Lee Adkins, age 62, of Jellico, Tennessee, went to his heavenly home after an extended illness on Thursday afternoon, April 24, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 9, 1962, to Robert Lee Adkins, who survives, and the late Martha Ann (Ayers) Adkins. He was the grandson of the late Tom Adkins and Lona (Lawson) Adkins and the late John Alfred Ayers and Etta Mildred Ayers. Tommy was a graduate of Jellico High School – Class of 1980. After graduating from high school, he became a certified auto mechanic. He was a life-long car enthusiast and was able to work in various capacities in...

Billy Joe Smith, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and son, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 55. Known by all as Billy, he was born on January 22, 1970, in Pineville, Kentucky. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in love and kindness were hallmarks of his character. Billy served with honor and distinction in the United States Navy as a combat veteran during the Gulf War, stationed onboard the USS Wisconsin. He resided in Williamsburg, Kentucky, where his hobbies of hunting and woodworking brought him great joy, as did his beloved dog, Poncho. Billy’s love for his family was paramount and defined his life. His...