ADAIR COUNTY  - "92.7 The WAVE"  

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TAYLOR & GREEN COUNTY - "99.9 THE BIG DAWG" 

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CASEY COUNTY  - "98.7 THE BUCK"  

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Stephanie LeeAnn Sutton Bair, 46, of Columbia, KY passed away Monday, May 4, 2026 at her home. She was born on August 9, 1979 to Janie Marie Luttrell Sutton and the late Timothy Mark Sutton.

Stephanie was a caretaker that took care of everyone. She loved her kids, grandkids and her family. Stephanie enjoyed flowers, gardening and being outside. She attended Mt. Calvary Community Church.

SURVIVORS:

Her loving husband of 15 years: Jason Bair

Her mother: Janie Marie Luttrell Sutton

2 daughters: Kayla Lynn Melson Bair and Jessica Renee Rowe

3 step-children: Olivia, Brandon and Elizabeth Bair

3 grandchildren: Sapphire, Elijah and Silas

2 sisters: Stacie (and Dean) Weston and Jamie Rae (and Todd) Dotson

Half-brother: Joey Eads

Half-sister: Angela Wooley

Her nieces, Kristen & Jalesa

Special nephew: Kash

In addition to her father, she is preceded in death by a half-brother, Kevin Eads.

Funeral Service: 2:00pmET on Friday, May 8, 2026 at McKinney-Brown Funeral Home in Liberty, KY with Bro. Alan Roberts officiating

Burial: Old Contown Cemetery

Visitation: After 10:00amET on Friday at McKinney-Brown Funeral Home

Memorial contributions are requested to McKinney-Brown Funeral Home to assist the family in offsetting funeral expenses.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McKinney-Brown Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.mckinneybrown.com.

Lawrence Alan Burton, 60, of Columbia, KY passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at his residence. Born on March 19, 1966 in Franklin, Indiana, Lawrence dedicated much of his life to serving others with unwavering commitment and integrity.

For 38 years, he faithfully served as a deputy jailer with the Adair County Jail, where his professionalism and dedication were deeply respected by colleagues. Beyond his career, Alan was a man of deep faith, rooted in the Pentecostal tradition. He found great solace and strength in studying his Bible, which was a central part of his daily life.

Alan’s warmth extended to all those fortunate to know him. He was especially devoted to his numerous fur babies, cherishing the companionship and joy they brought into his home. Family and friends held a very special place in his heart, and he treasured the time spent with them, creating memories filled with love and laughter.

SURVIVORS:

His beloved mother: Kathryn A. Burton of Columbia, KY

1 brother: Gene Burton & wife Cathy of Columbia, KY

His niece: Kisha Burton of Columbia, KY

Special friend: Jamie Baker of Columbia, KY

Though his father, Lawrence W. Burton, has preceded him in death, Lawrence's memory and legacy continue to live on through those who knew and loved him.

In honoring Alan's wishes the family chose cremation and no services are scheduled at this time.

Lawrence Alan Burton will be remembered as a dedicated public servant, a devout man of faith, and a loving family member and friend. His life was marked by kindness, steadfast service, and a compassionate spirit that touched many. His presence will be deeply missed, yet his enduring spirit remains a source of comfort and inspiration.

Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

William Herbert “Billy” Hale, 66, of Morgantown, KY passed away Sunday, May 3, 2026, at the Hospice House in Bowling Green, KY. He was born in Hinsdale, IL on February 20, 1960 to the late Oliver Wallace Hale, Jr. and Patty Jo Jessee Hale.
 

Billy was a member of the Nelson Pentecostal Church in Central City, KY and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and enjoyed fishing. Billy was a kind hearted man and he put others before himself , he lived a humble and simple life. Billy loved the Lord Jesus Christ.

He was also preceded in death by a brother, Oliver Wallace Hale III.

Billy was a member of the Nelson Pentecostal Church in Central City, KY and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

SURVIVORS:

7 siblings: David Hale of Columbia, KY, Deborah Lynn McClister (Bradley) of Beaver Dam, KY, Patricia Tison (Elvis Lee, Jr.) of Morgantown, KY, Daryl Hale of Bowling Green, KY, Judy Pettey (Lacy Roy) of Campbellsville, KY, Clifton Hale of Versailles, KY and Shane Hale of Louisville, KY

Several nieces, nephews, great-nieces & great-nephews

Funeral Service: Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 1:00pmCT at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home 

Burial: Harrods Fork Cemetery

Visitation: Saturday after 11:00amCT at the funeral home

Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Tommy Dial, 57, of Columbia, KY died Sunday, May 3, 2026 at Russell County Hospital in Russell Springs, KY. He was born in Burkesville, KY on March 19, 1969, a son of William Dial and the late Ople Crawhorn Dial.

Tommy had worked as a salesman at Lowe’s.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by three brothers: Douglas Dial, Frank Dial and Johnny Dial.

SURVIVORS:

His father: William Dial of Columbia

2 sons: Zach Dial (Chasity) and Ryan Dial (Erica) all of Columbia

2 brothers: Alford Dial (Charlotte) of Taylorsville and Mitchell Dial (Pam) of Columbia

2 sisters: Kathy DeRossett (Doug) of Columbia and Becky Parradee (Mike) of Russell Springs

4 grandchildren: Londyn, Addilyn, Lincoln and Waylon

Special friend: Delores Vance of Columbia

Several other relatives & friends

Funeral service: Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home with Bro. Rick Shelton officiating

Burial: Columbia Cemetery

Visitation: After 10:00 A.M. Thursday

Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Thomas Casey, 47, of Glens Fork, KY died Saturday, May 2, 2026 at his home. He was born December 13, 1978 in Louisville, KY to the late Thomas and Carla Benningfield Casey.

Thomas was Manager of Kentucky Fried Chicken in Russell Springs.

SURVIVORS:

One aunt: Tina Belke (Steve) of Louisville

His special friend: Myra Thomas of Glens Fork

Several cousins & a host of friends

Thomas requested Cremation and no services are to be held.

Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Gary Silas Robertson, 76, was born in Russell Springs, KY on July 29, 1949, the fourth child to Oscar and Lura Burton Robertson. He passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Liberty Care Center in Liberty, KY after a brief battle with leukemia.
 

Gary graduated from Russell County High School as a member of the Class of 1968 and later attended Southeastern Christian College in Winchester, KY where he was member of the basketball program.

Gary was employed by Stephens’ Pipe and Steel for many years as a regional salesman. He also worked for several years at Suntime Pools in Lexington, Kentucky, selling and installing pools. In his free time Gary enjoyed watching and talking about University of Kentucky sports. He will be remembered for his outgoing personality and quick wit. 

SURVIVORS:

1 daughter Robin Robertson of Jacksonville, Florida

3 sisters: Judy Downing of Naperville, Illinois, Carol Wheat of Somerset, KY, and Sherri Coffey (Paul) of Russell Springs

1 brother: Daryl (Lara) of Jamestown, KY

Sister-in-law: Vivian Robertson of Bardstown, KY

Several nieces & nephews
 

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Randy, and his brother-in-law, Herbert “Buck” Wheat.

Per Gary’s request, there will be no public service. A private memorial will take place at a later date. 

Evelyn Blakey Phelps, 94, of Columbia, KY passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. She was born on May 26, 1931 in Russell Springs, KY, a daughter of the late Lawrence and Bertie Hadley Blakey.

Evelyn devoted her life to her family, community, and career, leaving behind a legacy marked by dedication and grace. Her professional life spanned over 6½ decades, during which she served as Office Manager at several local establishments including Phelps Motors, Harvey & Ellis Motors, and Franklin Auto Sales. Her commitment and outstanding work ethic made her a respected figure in the automotive community of Columbia.

A woman of faith and service, Evelyn was a devoted member of the Columbia Christian Church. She held an active role in the Order of the Eastern Star Chapter 432, where she notably served as Worthy Grand Matron. Her civic contributions extended to the Democrat Women's Club, the Hospital Auxiliary, and the Columbia Housing Authority—each a testament to her unwavering commitment to the betterment of her community.

Evelyn was known for her warm heart and love for spending time with family and friends. She found joy in gardening, tending to her flowers, collecting antiques, and working in her yard. These simple pleasures enriched her life and the lives of those around her. She also enjoyed traveling, hiking, skiing and backpacking.

SURVIVORS:

3 children: Sue Phelps of Lexington, KY; Ann Bastin & husband Gary of Mukilteo, WA; and Mike Phelps & wife Rinnie of Richmond, KY

2 grandchildren: Dr. Rebecca Geile & husband Dr. Michael of Richmond, KY and Michael Jo Phelps & wife Blair of Lexington, KY

9 great-grandchildren

Many nieces & nephews 

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by a grandson, Robbie Phelps and seven siblings: Wesley Blakey, Enola Wheat, Noma Blakey Holt, Nadine Loy, Exzona Blakey Bloyd, Irene Shearer Knight, and Luther Garvin Blakey.

Funeral Service: Monday, May 4, 2026 at 11:00amCT at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home, 210 Greensburg Street, Columbia, KY

Burial: Columbia Cemetery

Visitation: Sunday, May 3, 2026 from 4:00pm-8:00pmCT and Monday morning until time for the service at the funeral home

Eastern Star Rites: Sunday at 7:00pmCT by Eastern Star Chapter #432

Evelyn Blakey Phelps will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for her kindness, strength, and lifelong dedication to the people and causes she held dear. Her legacy lives on through her family and all those fortunate enough to have known her.

Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Brian Nathan Lee, 44, of Columbia, KY passed away at his residence on Sunday, April 26, 2026. He was born on February 1, 1982 in Somerset, KY, a son of Delphus Lee and the late Becky Lee.

Brian was a devoted family man and a respected member of his community. He earned a Master’s in Psychology from Western Kentucky University, a testament to his dedication to understanding and helping others. His professional life was marked by his ownership of Team Lee Photography, where he combined his talent and passion to create lasting memories for many families.

A man of many gifts, Brian was also deeply involved in his church, Egypt Christian Church. He took great pride in singing in the choir, finding special joy in playing the guitar, though his musical abilities extended to multiple instruments. Beyond music, Brian enjoyed spending quality time with his family and friends, cherishing those moments above all else.

SURVIVORS:

3 children: Maddex, Lennox, and Ava Lee of Bowling Green, KY

His father & stepmother: Delphus Lee (& Cindy) of Columbia, KY

1 sister: Barbie Miller (Sam) of Bowling Green, KY

1 brother: Craig Lee (Tori) of Mobile, AL

Stepsister: Kristy Lee of Owensboro, KY

Several aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, & other relatives 

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Becky Lee, whose memory he carried with great love throughout his life, and by his grandparents: Sam & Louvern Lee and Perley Jr & Emma McCoy.

Funeral Service: Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 2:00pmCT at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home with Rev. Paul Patton and Rev. Joel Patton officiating

Burial: Haven Hill Cemetery

Visitation: Thursday after 10:00am at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home.

Pallbearers: Patrick Young, Chris Cole, Eric Shepherd, Zack Bailey, Stephen Caldwell and Bradley Caldwell.

Brian Nathan Lee’s warmth, talents, and dedication to his loved ones and community leave an indelible mark. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the funeral home to assist with funeral expenses.
 

Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Chester M. Miller, 35, of Columbia, KY died Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. He was born May 3, 1990 in Watsontown, Pennsylvania

Chester was a certified logger.

SURVIVORS:

His parents: Martin and Rhoda Yoder Miller of Constable, New York

The love of his life and mother of his children: Kansas Clemmons of Columbia

3 sons: Christopher Miller, Caduim Miller and Carsen Miller all of Columbia

4 brothers: Nevin Miller of Michigan, Daniel Miller, Christopher Miller, and Wilmer Miller all of New York

5 sisters: Saloma Byler of Michigan, Marian Miller, Celesta Mast, Lisa Miller, and Vera Mast all of New York

Several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Special friend: Allan Leischner of Columbia

Funeral Service: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in Columbia, KY with Lucas Rowe officiating

Burial: Haven Hill Cemetery

Visitation: After 4:00 P.M. Tuesday

Casket Bearers: Christopher Miller, Wilmer Miller, Nick McGaha, Allan Leischner, Josh Tweedy, Kemet Rufus, Vince Clemmons, and David Wheat

Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Raymond Everett Wilder, 88, of Jamestown, KY died Monday, April 20, 2026 at his residence. He was born on August 17, 1937, a son of the late Raymond E. Wilder Sr. and Nellie Pearl Reed Wilder.

Mr. Wilder was a veteran of the United States Army and retired from the University of California.

SURVIVORS:

1 son: David J. Grayson

1 daughter: Sherree Lynn Wilder

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry T. Wilder.

No service is planned.

Arrangements are a joint effort of Wilson Funeral Home and Somerset Undertaking Company.

Betty Jean Valentine Esher, 85, of Pompano Beach, Florida (formerly of the Faubush community) died Tuesday, April 21, 2026 in Pompano Beach.

SURVIVORS:

2 daughters: Connie Girlando of Atlanta, Georgia and Anita Valentine Berthiaume of Pompano, Florida

4 grandchildren: Carina Girlando, Gina Girlando, Joseph Girlando and Sera Girlando

6 great-grandchildren 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joda Steve Anderson and Sylvia McGough; her husband, Charles Esher; and grandson, John Zocco.

Funeral Service: Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 2:00pmCT in the chapel of Wilson Funeral Home, 391 East Steve Wariner Dr., Russell Springs, KY

Interment: Wilkerson Cemetery

Visitation: Beginning at 12 noon on Saturday

Wilson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Ryan Marshall Sneed, 38, of Columbia, KY passed away Monday April 20, 2026 in Columbia, KY. He was born in Campbellsville, KY on September 11, 1987, the son of Marshall Sneed and the late Joyce Cave Sneed.

SURVIVORS:

1 daughter and her mother: Brittany Harmon of Russell Springs, KY

His father: Marshall Sneed of Columbia, KY

1 sister: Tina Wells of Columbia, KY

Uncle: Steve Cave of Columbia, KY

2 nephews: Grayson Riggins and Skylar Riggins

2 great-nephews: Brayton Riggins and Zeighlin Riggins

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his grandparents: Ural Sneed and Katie Pyles and Douglas & Naomi Cave.

The family has chose cremation, and no service is scheduled at this time. 

Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.