ADAIR COUNTY  - "92.7 The WAVE"  

https://ridingthewave.com/obituaries

TAYLOR & GREEN COUNTY - "99.9 THE BIG DAWG" 

https://wvlc.com/obituaries

CASEY COUNTY  - "98.7 THE BUCK"  

https://chasinthebuck.com/obituaries

Jimmy Wayne Pagel, 53, of Russell Springs, KY passed away Monday, November 9, 2026 at his residence. He was born in Indianapolis, IN on January 26, 1973, a son of Brenda (Collins) Pagel of Indiana and the late Steven Pagel.

Jimmy worked as an Arborist.

Mark Anthony Miick, 84, of Smiths Grove, KY passed away Monday, November 9, 2026 at his residence. A native of Norfolk, Nebraska, he was the son of the late John J. Miick and Rita Marie Leick Miick.

Mark was a retired labor foreman in the construction industry. He was an avid collector of Die cast tractors and cars. Mark was a member of St. Helen’s Catholic Church.

SURVIVORS:

His wife of 52 years: Wanda

1 daughter: Tonja Sue Robinson (Zachary) of Smiths Grove

1 son: Bryan Miick (Christina) of Grand Junction, Colorado

1 granddaughter: Lorelai Lindsay Robinson

3 brothers: Lewis Miick (Bonnie) of California, Ronald Miick (Gloria) of Washington, and John Miick (Judy) of Florida

1 sister: Judy Laudolf of Rocky River, Ohio

Several nieces & nephews

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons: Tommy Miick and John Miick.

Funeral mass: Thursday at 1:00 p.m. at St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Glasgow

Visitation: After 10 a.m. on Thursday at Hatcher & Saddler Funeral Home in Glasgow, KY

Burial: Russell Springs City Cemetery at 2:30pmCT on Friday, November 13, 2026

Alternate expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Hatcher & Saddler Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Robert Hale Leach, 70, of Russell Springs, KY passed from this life on Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at the Jean Waddle Care Center in Somerset. He was born on September 22, 1956 in Somerset, a son of the late Mac and Geraldine Hale Leach.
 

Robert was a retired transportation director for the Russell County Board of Education with over 20 years of service. Along with his wife, Sandy, he was also a part-owner/operator of the Key Twin Cinema for 31 years. Robert was a self-taught man; he could accomplish anything he set his mind to, and do it right. He enjoyed autobody repair work, woodworking, and bulldozer/heavy equipment work. He loved his family, and enjoyed family events and get-togethers. Robert had a kind and giving heart; always willing to lend a helping hand for anyone who needed help. He was a former, long-time member and president of the Russell County Jaycees, and attended Oak Grove Separate Baptist Church. 
 

SURVIVORS:

His wife of 47 years: Sandy Higginbotham Leach of Russell Springs

1 sister: Robin (and Rob) Surprenant of Katy, Texas

1 brother: Craig (and Sunni Gayle) Leach of Russell Springs

3 nephews: Alex Giammaruti of Houston, Texas, Brandon Leach and Josh (and Lauren) Higginbotham of Russell Springs

Great-niece & great-nephew: Trey Higginbotham and Oakley Higginbotham
 

Funeral service: 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Bernard Funeral Home with Bro. Kenny Kimbler and Bro. Darrin Blair officiating

Burial: Mt. Pleasant Cemetery

Visitation: After 10:00 A.M. on Saturday at the funeral home

Pallbearers: Brandon Leach, Alex Giammaruti, Josh Higginbotham, Mitchell Richards, Timmy Antle, and Tyler Antle

Honorary pallbearers: Daren Johnson, Mickey Garner, Danny Voils, and Dwayne Wilson. 
 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations of sympathy be made to Hospice of Lake Cumberland, 100 Parkway Drive, Somerset, Kentucky 42503. Donations can also be left at the funeral home. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Bernard Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com. 
 

Donna Sue Yates, 63, of Columbia, KY, passed away Tuesday November 10, 2026 at her residence. She was born on March 12, 1963 in Quantico, Virginia to the late Donald Hugh “Don” Yates and Frieda Thompson Yates of Columbia, KY who survives.

Donna was a member of 3trees Church and enjoyed being outdoors and spending time with her family and friends.

SURVIVORS:

Her mother: Frieda Thompson Yates of Columbia, KY

1 brother: Brent Yates of Columbia, KY

Nephew: Waydon Tyler Yates of Lexington, KY

Several other family members & friends

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

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

Deloris Carolyn Cowan, 70, of Columbia, KY passed away on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at Signature Healthcare in Monroe County, KY. She was born on June 3, 1956 in Adair County, KY to the late Jessie “Buddy” Branham and Rebecca A. Claywell Grant.

Deloris was a hardworking woman who spent part of her life as a seamstress at Fruit of the Loom and OshKosh. She was known for the care she gave to the things that mattered most to her, whether through her work, her home, or the relationships she treasured. She found joy in flower gardening, took pride in keeping her home clean and welcoming, and especially loved spending time with her family and friends. Her faith was an important part of her life. Deloris was a member of Hadley Community Church and attended Harrods Fork Baptist Church.

SURVIVORS:

2 sons: Kavin Cowan (Nena) of Port Charlotte, FL and Bobby Bennett of Edmonton, KY

1 stepdaughter: Gina Douget of Mississippi

2 grandchildren: Nathan and Delaney Bennett

Special friends: Martha Lacy, Pam Crews and Carol Dugeon

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Gilbert Cowan; stepfather, Elford Grant; and two sisters: Lisa Gayle Branham and Sheila Diane Coomer.

Funeral Service: Friday, November 13, 2026 at 2:00pmCT at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home with Bro. John Campbell officiating

Visitation: Friday after 10:00amCT at the funeral home

Burial: Fudge Cemetery

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

James E. "Jimmy" Stapp, 75, of Columbia, KY, passed away at his residence on Friday, November 6, 2026. He was born on August 13, 1951 in Jefferson County, KY to the late Boyce and Mildred Bennett Stapp.

James lived a life rooted in hard work, faith, and devotion to the people he loved. He worked as a machinist for over 42 years at IMO, bringing dedication and steady commitment to his career. He also served in the Army National Guard, a reflection of his willingness to serve others and his country.

James found great joy in farming and in spending time with his family and friends. Some of his happiest moments were those shared with his grandchildren and his great-granddaughter, Oakley, who held a special place in his heart. He was also an avid University of Kentucky sports fan, and he took pride in cheering on his team through the years.

His faith was an important part of his life. James was a member of Providence Baptist Church and attended 3trees Church, where he remained connected to his beliefs and church community.

SURVIVORS:

2 daughters: Chasity Yarberry (Jamie) and Sabrina Moss (Jordan)

2 grandsons: Kobe and Savon Stapp

1 great-granddaughter: Oakley Stapp

Special friend: Susan McMinnoway & her family Michael, Tiffany, Adelyn and Jace

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Dohoney Stapp and four siblings: Boyce Jr., Albert, Ruby and Maxine Stapp.

Funeral Service: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 1:00pmCT at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home with Bro. Curt Hill officiating

Burial: Providence Cemetery

Visitation: Monday, November 9, 2026 from 4:00pm-8:00pmCT and Tuesday morning until time for the service

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

Pallbearers: Kobe Stapp, Savon Stapp, Michael McMinnoway, Jace McMinnoway, Steve Harmon and Irvin Bertram
 

Bro. Roger H. Popplewell, 80, of Lebanon, Indiana went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, October 31, 2026. He was born on March 4, 1946 in Russell County, KY to Edward Hugh and Naomi Popplewell.

Roger gave his life to God as a teenager. He accepted God's call into the ministry in 1977 and pastored for more than 40 years in the Church of God of Prophecy in Indiana and Kentucky. His life was devoted to preaching the Gospel, shepherding God's people and sharing his faith. Above all, Roger will be remembered for his love of God, his devotion to his family and his faithful service. His earthly journey may have come to an end, but the legacy he leaves behind will live on through his family, friends and all those whose lives were touched by his ministry.

SURVIVORS:

His wife of 61 years: Judy Gosser Popplewell

3 sons: Terry H. (DeAnna) Popplewell, Troy W. (Angie) Popplewell and Trent (Patience) Popplewell

5 grandchildren: Hannah (Jonathon) Hawkins, Makayla Popplewell, Treven Popplewell, Tanner Popplewell and Emma Popplewell

8 sisters: Collieen Gaskins, Pam Johnson, Nita Popplewell, Brigette Popplewell (Joe Campbell), Sue Brockman (Bobby Grider), Lisha Popplewell, Dawn (Rick) Terry, and Peggy Woods

3 brothers: Mike (Sharon) Popplewell, Jerry Popplewell and Kenny Popplewell

Roger was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Alan Popplewell.

Funeral Service: Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 1:00pmCT at Strawmyer & Drury Mortuary in Lebanon, Indiana

Burial: IOOF Cemetery in Jamestown, Indiana

Visitation: Beginning at 10:00amCT on Saturday at Strawmyer & Drury Mortuary

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to the Jamestown Church of God of Prophecy, 8 West Elm Street, Jamestown, Indiana 46147 in loving memory of Pastor Roger.

David Alan Schafer, 71, of Russell Springs, KY passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and stories that will undoubtedly be told for generations. He was born on June 11, 1955 in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Howard and Evelynne Schafer.

David was always drawn to the path less traveled, especially when it promised a new adventure, an interesting story, or the chance to stir up just a little mischief along the way.
 

David's life was anything but ordinary. Even from a young age, David had a way of turning ordinary moments into unforgettable stories, a gift he would carry with him throughout his life. His childhood took him across the country, from playing cowboys alongside his brother in El Paso, Texas, to his rambunctious formative years in Burlington, North Carolina. In North Carolina, David graduated with honors from Oak Ridge Military Academy. He later made his way to Glasgow, Montana, and to Pocatello, Idaho, where he lovingly cared for his mother during her final days, a testament to the tenderness and devotion beneath his sometimes mischievous exterior.

Eventually, the bluegrass of Kentucky called him home. It was there that one of life's greatest adventures awaited him. David met Carolyn Williams, who would become his loving companion and partner for the next nine years. Together, they built a life rich in love, laughter, treasured friendships, and the simple joys of sharing each day with someone special. With Carolyn by his side, David found not only a place to call home, but someone with whom to share the stories, adventures, and everyday moments that made life so meaningful.

Throughout his working years, David served as a railroad conductor and engineer before later becoming a client account manager at Stephens Pipe and Steel. His intelligence, curiosity, and natural ability to connect with people served him well, although no job title could ever quite capture the character of the man himself. Affectionately nicknamed the "Brown-Eyed Devil" by his mother, David had an unmistakable twinkle in his eyes, the kind that made you wonder what he was up to before he ever said a word.

Blessed with old Southern charm, a clever sense of humor, and an endlessly curious mind, he could find something amusing in just about any situation. He had a way of making people feel welcome, keeping conversations interesting, and delivering a perfectly timed wisecrack when you least expected it.

To his nieces and nephews, he was the fun uncle, the one who brought laughter to family gatherings, told the best stories, and reminded everyone that growing older didn't mean you had to grow up entirely. He could test your patience one minute and have you laughing the next. That was simply David, and it was impossible not to love him for it. David was also a devoted fan of both the University of Kentucky and Duke, an unusual combination that seemed perfectly fitting for a man who had never been particularly concerned with doing things the conventional way.

SURVIVORS:

His significant other: Carolyn Williams of Russell Springs & her children: Greg Williams (Shay Farris) of Jamestown, Jerica Aaron (Derek) of Russell Springs, and Carley Williams (Darian Mitchell) of Green County

2 grandchildren: Ainsley Aaron and Easton Mitchel

1 sister: Bonnie Spencer of Boise, Idaho

Many beloved nieces & nephews

His faithful four-legged companion: Maggie

Many dear friends

David was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Evelynne Schafer, and his brother, William "Dobie" Wills. We are comforted by the thought of their joyful reunion in heaven now.

David cared deeply for those he held close. Whether showing up for family, sharing a conversation with a friend, or simply enjoying the companionship of his beloved poodle, Maggie, David understood that life's greatest treasures were often found in its simplest moments. The world is a little quieter without David in it, but we can only imagine heaven has become a much more entertaining place. Somewhere up there, that familiar brown-Byed Devil is surely charming the angels, telling a story, and getting away with something. He leaves us with a reminder to stay curious, find humor even on difficult days, love our people well, and never lose that little spark of mischief that makes life worth living.

Rest easy, Uncle David. Thank you for the laughter, the adventures, and the memories. Your stories will live on, your laughter will be remembered, and that mischievous twinkle in your eyes will never be forgotten.

Memorial Service: Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 1:00pmCT at Bernard Ridge Church of God in Russell Springs, KY with Bro. Eric Richardson officiating

Visitation: Beginning at 10:00amCT on Saturday 

Bernard Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Christoper Allen Green, 61, was born on September 11, 1965 in Columbia, KY, a son of “LC” Green and the late Barbara Jean Green. He departed on Thursday morning, October 29, 2026 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana after several weeks of hospitalizations.

Many words were heard and sent in Chris’s final days. Loving, selfless, thoughtful, gentle, decent, funny, caring, genuine, quick to make fun of himself, calm, non-complaining. His sister, Beth, used the words “Protector”, the “Calm in the Storm”, the man she remembered who would light up seeing her when she was a little girl and say “Hello, Bethly Ann Green!” Son Caleb described Chris as his “Hero” with shoes “too big to fill”. These words define what simply is getting harder and harder to find - A truly Good Person- A truly Good Man - in a world with ever increasing bad intentions and circumstances. He weathered them all and remained the same Chris throughout, to the end.

One other word obvious to all was that Chris was a FIGHTER - A medical marvel. His chronic lung issues had brought him to death’s door countless times over his later life, yet so many times, he didn’t open it, fighting to stay, to love and support his wife Cathy, her hand in his, and their family. Strength, Character, love of God and family can defy biology and medical predictions – Chris proved it, over and over again.

It was always obvious Chris was a fighter. It was also obvious Chris was a Kentucky Man thru and thru. After moving to Louisiana, his married into family tried to spice up his “cornbread and beans” roots with some Louisiana seasoning. He took it good naturedly, folded into the south Louisiana culture and grew to actually like some things, but they knew - no matter how much spice was thrown into his pot, Chris was always going to be a KY “Cornbread and Beans, No Nonsense” man. They wouldn’t have it any other way. If there was an honorary Departed Kentuckians “Who’s Who”, Volume 1, bound in wildcat blue leather with gold-gilded pages in the Lord’s Library, Chris would be in it.

He called his wife Catherine, not Cathy, seeing on their marriage license that her given name was Catherine, stating “I didn’t know that was your name. That is beautiful. Like you.”  He called her Catherine from that point forward. No one else in the family did that. For Chris, Catherine was special and that proved it.

He loved anything sweet to eat, cakes, pies, Little Debbie snack cakes. Chocolate gravy a personal favorite. On family trips, Chris was less concerned about schedules, price of gas, luggage and more concerned about his “bag of travel goodies”.

He was proud of his work history and loved to work, spending years laying all manner of utility pipe all around the Region. His employers valued his ability and work ethic.  

Chris was an avid reader. He loved reading, but also loved books beyond the stories in them, having them, keeping them, sharing them. Reading was breathing to him. An everyday involuntary impulse. He loved westerns. A reliable fictional world of the clear right versus wrong struggle, the good guy winning, of black letters on white paper, turning the pages on his own schedule, where he was in control, apart from the real world where he had lost much of it. Chris’s love of reading and later health struggles presented him that “One More Chapter” type decision so many times in his life. Readers can get so immersed in the story, what will happen next, that they keep reading regardless of the time, despite the stiffness in the body, despite the little voice telling them to stop, wanting to get a little more reading in. They do a “peak ahead” to see how many pages they are taking on if they decide to go on, grabbing those pages, judging the effort and time and decide “Can I do that or am I going to save that for later?” Chris had so many “should I stop now or keep reading, keep breathing, keep going?” moments. Should I just give in and go to sleep or fight to keep his eyes open and continue to live, be there for his family, be the Chris we knew and loved. The early morning of October 29th brought that decision to Chris once again. The choice to make. The eye’s heavy. Keep going. Keep turning pages or stop, set the bookmark. The morning of Chris’s passing, the Lord said:

“Chris. That is enough. I am the Lord, deciding for you. I know you are so very tired. You have won this fight enough to demonstrate the depths of you. I am here. Your family is here. You are loved. There is no need to prove anything to me, your family, or anyone. Do not be afraid. Do not feel you are letting anyone down. Your book of life is an epic saga, a masterpiece to be remembered for generations. Your bookmark goes here, this morning. Do not fret the unread pages. I have looked ahead for you. They are endless in my kingdom. We will read them together. You and I. Pages filled with love and joy, watching Cathy, Caleb, Molly, Ashlie, Roby, Quaid, Wrennen and the rest of your family grow and live and love. Endless pages to be turned, endless Chapters to be read. We will read each one together, but these black and white pages will be filled with beautiful pictures, illustrated in beautiful colors.”
 

In addition to his mother, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Timmy Green.
 

SURVIVORS:

His wife of 39 years: Catherine Tutt Green

1 son: Caleb Green (Ashlie) of Ragley, Louisiana

1 daughter: Molly Green of Ragley, Louisiana

3 grandsons: Roby Green, Quaid Green and Wrennen Green

His dad: L.C. Green of Columbia, KY

1 sister: Beth Sneed (Jeremy) of Russell Springs, KY

1 brother: Troy Green (Cheryl) of Columbia, KY

Several nieces & nephews

Numerous members of his extended family & friends

Funeral Service: Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at 11:00amCT at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in Columbia, KY

Visitation: Monday, November 2, 2026 from 4:00pm-8:00pmCT at the funeral home 

Graveside services will be held at the Freedom Separate Baptist Church Cemetery following the funeral service. 
 

Grissom-Martin Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Freddy McGowan, 81, of Russell Springs, KY passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026 at Fair Oaks Health and Rehabilitation in Jamestown, KY. He was born on January 29, 1945 in Cincinnati, Ohio, a son of the late Elvis and Susie Tucker McGowan.

Mr. McGowan was a retired dairy and tobacco farmer.

SURVIVORS:

1 son: Todd (and Melissa) McGowan of Russell Springs

2 daughters: Traci (and Erik) Wesley of Berea and Cathy (and James) McFee of Russell Springs

1 brother: Frankie McGowan of Russell Springs

Sister-in-law: Linda McGowan of Russell Springs

Brother-in-law: Dennis Bailey of Columbia

4 grandchildren: Joshua Dye of Berea, Ayden McGowan, Aaron McGowan, and Ashley Gallagher, all of Russell Springs

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Jackie Bailey of Russell Springs; two brothers: Ewell Gene McGowan of Glasgow and Desmond McGowan of Russell Springs; and an infant grandson, Justin Glover.

Cremation rites were honored according to the family’s wishes. A private ceremony will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Bernard Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com. 

Lynne Gayle Polston, 68, of Russell Springs, KY passed away Friday, October 30, 2026 at the Monroe County Medical Center in Tompkinsville, KY. She was born on January 29, 1958 in Indiana, the daughter of the late Kenneth Paul and Patricia Louana Baker Hines.

Lynne was a homemaker, a seamstress who delighted in making her family’s clothing and a talented artist who loved drawing. She loved her grandchildren and her dog, Chewy.

SURVIVORS:

1 daughter: Wendy Polston (and Robert Hall) of Russell Springs

5 grandchildren: Natasha (and Slade) Baughman, Ashley Burton (and Jared Veatch), Samantha Davidson (and Jacob Jasper), Nicholas (and Samantha) Lawless, and Angelina Hall, all of Russell Springs

5 great-grandchildren: Luna Veatch, Gunner Davidson, Jackson Veatch, Kiedis Jasper, Summer Burton, and one yet to be born

1 brother: Christopher (and Dawn) Hines of Indiana

Special nephew: Jason (and Wendy) Hines of Indiana

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Randell Polston, who passed away April 21, 2019; one daughter, Brandy Atkins; one brother, Kenny Paul Hines, and one sister, Paula Hines.

Cremation rites were honored by Bernard Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may take the form of donations to the funeral home to help the family offset the cost of final expenses.

Bernard Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.