http://www.thebreathittfuneralhome.com/

Breathitt Funeral Home & Monument Co., 409 Highway 15 South; PO Box 201, Jackson, KY (2026)

06/17/2026

Pearl Miller Jr., age 80, departed this earthly life Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at the UK Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky. Born on September 8, 1945 in Jackson, Kentucky, Pearl lived a full and vibrant life rooted in his Appalachian heritage.

Pearl dedicated much of his working years to the factory industry, where he contributed with diligence and commitment. Outside of work, he found joy in pursuits that connected him to nature and tradition. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, as well as digging ginseng and roots—a practice deeply tied to the culture of his home region. Pearl also had a passion for knife trading, a hobby that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and utility.

Family was at the heart of Pearl’s life. He is survived by his son; Earl Miller; his brothers; James Miller, Charles Miller (Becky) and Gaston Miller; as well as a host of nieces, nephews and friends who cherished his company and wisdom. Pearl was predeceased by his parents, Pearl Miller Sr. and Goldie Dunn Miller.

Visitation for Pearl will be held Friday, June 19, 2026 at the Breathitt Funeral Home from 11:00 AM to the time of his funeral at 1:00 PM with Estill Barnett officiating. Burial will follow in the Haddix Cemetery at Haddix.

Pearl’s legacy is one of hard work, love for family and a deep connection to the land he called home. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

06/15/2026

Willie Roy Miller, affectionately known as "W.R.", was born on December 14, 1950 in Hamilton, Ohio and departed this earthly life on June 13, 2026 at age 75.

He was the son of the late Roy Cecil Miller and Beulah Moore Miller.

W.R. was a lifelong resident of Breathitt County, Kentucky where he built a life centered on faith, family and service to others. He retired from Falcon Coal after many years of dedicated work and later became a successful business owner.

A man of deep faith, W.R. faithfully served as pastor of Grace Bible Church and devoted countless hours to jail ministry and nursing home ministry alongside close friend and brother in Christ, Charles Deaton sharing God's love with those in need. He was a devoted member of New Hope Community Baptist Church and was also a proud member of the Masonic Lodge #649.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife and best friend of 45.5 years, Janet Miller; his son, Willie Roy Miller II and wife, Trish; his daughter, Kristina Miller-Gibson and husband, Dwayne and his beloved grandchildren, Travis Roy and Kennedi Paige who brought him immeasurable joy and pride.

He is also survived by his sister, Linda Bellamy and husband, Burt; his brothers, Timothy Miller and Vickie and Jeff Miller and Marie; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

W.R. took the greatest pride in his family. He cherished every moment spent with Janet, his wife and constant companion. Above all else, he adored his children and grandchildren, Travis and Kennedi whose accomplishments and happiness filled his heart with pride. He also leaves behind his faithful canine companion, Dozer.

Visitation for W.R. will begin Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at the Breathitt Funeral Home from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM with masonic rites to be conducted Tuesday at 7:00 PM. His funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 1:00PM with James David Fugate and Raymond Hudson in charge of the service.

Burial will follow in the Miller Family Cemetery at Millers Branch in Jackson with Travis Roy Miller, Dwayne Gibson, Eric Hudson, Darren Hudson, Jason Bellamy, Jeff Riggs, Charlie Fugate and Ira Gibson serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Dennis Brown, Tommy Noble, Geno Davis, Anthony Holbrook, Donnie Gross, Phillip Allen, Burt Bellamyt, Delbert "Fuzz" Patrick, Wayne Harvey, Billy Ryan Chaney, Ronnie Paul Miller and Randall Combs.

W.R.'s legacy of faith, hard work, compassion and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he has entered his eternal home.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

06/14/2026

William Paul Nelson Ehrlinger, 75, entered eternal rest Thursday, June 11, 2026 at the Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson, Kentucky. Born on September 27, 1950 in Chicago, Illinois, William lived a full and meaningful life.

William earned a bachelor’s degree in business and went on to build a successful career as a systems analyst. His professional contributions reflected his dedication and expertise in his field.

Family was central to William’s life. He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Ashley Kelley and Amanda Atherton; his brothers, David Ehrlinger (Claire) and Michael Ehrlinger and his grandchildren, Finnegan, Eveline, Jaqueline, Lincoln, Lilienne, Ainsley, Alanna, Aeowynn and Archimedes. He was predeceased by his parents, David and Betty Mortenson Ehrlinger.

In addition to his professional accomplishments and devotion to family, William enjoyed spending time on the golf course. He also had a passion for collecting pipes and smoking tobacco—a pastime that brought him joy over the years.

William’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May his legacy bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

06/09/2026

Patrick Joseph Campbell, 66, of Hardshell, Kentucky passed away Sunday, June 7, 2026 at his home. Born on March 19, 1960 in Glenview, Illinois, Patrick lived a life marked by hard work, curiosity and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Patrick built a career as a skilled commercial and industrial electrician in Illinois before eventually relocating to Kentucky. His dedication to his craft was evident throughout his professional life and he took pride in the work he accomplished.

Outside of his career, Patrick found joy in many pursuits that reflected his love for nature and learning. He was an avid beekeeper and enjoyed spending time outdoors hunting and fishing. He also had a passion for shooting guns and could often be found reading or listening to older music that resonated with him. Patrick’s inquisitive nature led him to constantly seek out new knowledge and experiences. Above all else, he cherished time spent with his family.

Patrick is survived by his son, Sean Campbell; his daughter, Megan Campbell; his mother, Rose Rudolphi; his brothers, Mange Campbell and Terry Campbell; and his sister, Joy Carole. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Cindy Campbell; his father, Marian Campbell; and his sister, Jill Zimmerman.

Patrick’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May the legacy of his love for family and the natural world bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

06/04/2026

Herma Risner, age 94, of Tipp City, Ohio passed away Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Stone Springs Rehabilitation Facility, surrounded by her loving family. Herma was a member of First Light Church of Vandalia, Ohio and had a life-long love & dedication for her family.

She was born on May 17, 1932 to Chester and Lora (Hays) Holliday at Stacy, Ky. Herma was a graduate of Breathitt County High School (1950), attended Lees Jr College, and was a 20-year employee of Ohio Bell and served as a proud AT&T Pioneer. In 1951, she married the love of her life, Harold Risner.

Herma was proceeded in death by her parents, husband, and daughter-in-law, Christina Risner. She is survived by two sons: Gary and Greg (Jayne); two grandsons: Jared (Lisa) and Joseph (Megan); sister Hilda (HG) Williams; two sisters-in-law: Dorothy Deaton and Shirley Risner; along with a host of other relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends at the Morton and Whetstone Funeral Home, 139 S. Dixie Dr., Vandalia, Oh on Saturday, June 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Additional visitation times will be Monday, June 8, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel, 409 Ky-15, Jackson, Kentucky. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. A. T. Hays (her first cousin) officiating. Interment will be at Jackson Cemetery in Jackson, Kentucky with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you please keep them in your prayers and/or make a donation in Herma’s memory to a charity of your choice.

06/01/2026

Roy H. Scarberry, age 85, of Booneville, Kentucky, formerly of Phelps, Kentucky, entered eternal rest on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at his residence.

He was born on December 22, 1940, in Paw Paw, Kentucky, to Dewey M. Scarberry and Delpha Dotson Scarberry. Roy was a disabled coal miner who worked in underground mining operations throughout his career. He enjoyed gardening, playing the banjo and guitar, and loved trading knives, guns, and watches. Above all, Roy cherished spending time with his family. He was a faithful member of Bethany Bible Church for many years, a proud United States Army Veteran, and a member of American Legion Post 164 in Grundy, Virginia.

Roy is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sandra Kay Dotson Scarberry; his daughters, Kimberly Scarberry, Pamela Parker (Charles), and Alicia Smith (Fritz Eiserman); his grandchildren, Kyle Hagy, Keaton Hagy, Nate Parker, Emily Parker, Nicholas Kruspe, Natalie Kruspe, Meredith Kruspe, Konnor Smith, and Kyra Smith; his great-grandchildren, Oaklynn Smith and Levi Shortridge; and his brother, Vernon Scarberry.

In addition to his parents, Dewey M. Scarberry and Delpha Dotson Scarberry, Roy was preceded in death by his brothers, Edward Scarberry, Roger Scarberry, Herbert Scarberry, and Paul Scarberry; his sisters, Rosie Dotson, Ruby Estep, Gladys Sargent, and Fern Justus; and his great-grandson, Steven Jett Hagy.

Visitation for Roy will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at New Beginning Church in Hurley, Virginia. His memorial service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with Wilburn Dotson and Paul Rife officiating.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord." — Matthew 25:23

Roy's memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will forever cherish his faith, his service to his country, his love of music, and the many precious memories they shared with him.

06/01/2026

Harold Robert Gibson, age 45, of Russell Springs, Kentucky, formerly of Breathitt County, entered eternal rest on Friday, May 29, 2026, at his residence.

Born on February 18, 1981, in Martin, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Marcus Darrell Gibson and Josephine Bolen Howard. Harold worked as a laborer throughout his life. He enjoyed fishing, camping, spending time outdoors, and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved fiancée, Alice Carol Campbell; his daughter, Lura Josie Gibson; his stepsons, Michael Campbell, Dylan Campbell, and Jaykub Campbell; his brother, Christopher Elvis Gibson; his sisters, Melinda Jean Gibson and Tanya Carol Gibson; his grandchildren, Michael Ollie Campbell, and August Reed Campbell; his nieces, Kimberly McQuinn, Sabrina Elvidge, and Mariah Kjellesvig; his nephews, Wayne Hargett, Austin Gibson, Allen Fugate, Scotty Gross, Charles McQuinn, and Thomas McGuinn; along with a host of other relatives and friends who will mourn his passing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marcus Darrell Gibson and Josephine Bolen Howard; step-son Charles Campbell III, and his sister, Loretta Victoria McGuinn.

Visitation for Harold will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 from 12:00 Noon until his memorial service begins at 2:00 PM at the Breathitt Funeral Home with Robbie Gross officiating.

Harold will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, especially fishing and camping, and for the love he shared with his family and friends. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7

05/29/2026

Thelma Tharp Fugate Johnson, age 96 was born to the late Charles and Clara (Wilson) Tharp on October 15, 1929. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Earl Johnson and her son-in-law, Wick Clemons.

She was one of a large family with siblings - Zelma, Ed, Carlis, Bill, Brice, Charles, Osborne, Herman, Randolph, Thomas and Earl Tharp of whom she is survived by Ed, Brice and Zelma.

She had five children - Phyllis, Henry (Julita), Randy Lynn (Iva), William Brack (Lori), Detria (Cory) and her beloved adopted son, Dennis. Her family grew to include nine grandchildren - Jackie, Gary, Angela, Faith Ann, Holli, William Brack Jr., Amanda “Mandy”, Anthony, and Earl; eleven great grandchildren - Olivia, Henry, Jessica, Jesse, Liam, Sophia, Michael, Breanna, Erin, Kenton and Jaelyn and two great greatgrandchildren - Jaxson, Serenity whom are enough people that holiday dinners often looked more like a community event than a family gathering.

Thelma was well known throughout the Southfork community for her cooking. If you ever left her house hungry, it was probably your own fault. She was famous for being able to cook just about any kind of meat you could drag through the front door and sometimes the back door. Her chicken and dumplings never stayed on the table very long and her blackberry dumplings disappeared even faster. Family members are still trying to recreate her famous orange cake and pumpkin pudding cake though many suspect she intentionally took those recipes with her.

She loved gardening, fishing, loved to “cut a rug” to country and bluegrass music and staying busy from dusk till dawn. She was a well-known entrepreneur. She was a former bootlegger from years gone by and was well known and loved throughout the coal mining community for her famous frosty beverages. Years later she came to the Lord and was baptized along with her son, William Brack and great-grandchild, Jaelyn. She was baptized in the South Fork Creek by her nephew, Jimmy Tharp. Witnesses say that it did take two times, but she was fully baptized July 6, 2019. In her business life she made sure that her children and others were well fed and never went to bed hungry. She was a successful businesswoman involved in mobile home parks, property ownership and coal mining. In later years, she enjoyed being a snowbird in Florida near Lake Tohopekaliga where she could spend her days fishing and enjoying the sunshine.

Thelma also faithfully listened to WLJC TV. In fact, if the station had not heard from her in a while, they were known to call and check on her — a true sign of loyalty on both sides.

More than anything, Thelma loved her family and God fiercely. She was strong-willed, hardworking, generous, and unforgettable. She leaves behind countless stories, full stomachs and a family that will continue laughing about her recipes, sayings and stubbornness for generations to come.

Visitation for Thelma will be held Friday, June 5, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM and Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 8:00 AM until 12:00 PM Noon at the Breathitt Funeral Home. Her funeral service will begin Saturday, June 6, at 12:00 PM Noon with Jimmie Tharp officiating.

Burial will follow in the Ben Smith Cemetery at Southfork with William Fugate, Cory Dunning, Anthony Knight, Michael Dunning, Brack Fugate and Cody Spencer serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Dennis Hutchinson, Randy Lynn Fugate and Henry Clay Fugate.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Thelma’s memory to WLJC. Call 606-464-4250 or https://wljc.com/donate/

05/23/2026

Gary “Big Moe” Moore, age 75, of Jackson, Kentucky passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026 at Baptist Health Hospital in Lexington surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on March 25, 1951 in Jackson, Gary lived a life filled with hard work, laughter, loyalty and love. Known affectionately to many as “Big Moe,” he never met a stranger and could light up any room with his quick wit, unforgettable humor, and larger-than-life personality.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, James Moore and June Moore; and his brothers, Mike Moore and Donald Moore.

He leaves behind the love of his life and devoted wife of 54 years, Elizabeth Moore. He is also survived by his daughters, Misti Howard (Bobby) of Greensboro and Donna Ferguson (Tommy) of Middlesboro; his cherished grandchildren, Braeden Ferguson, Brannon Ferguson, Addyson Terry and BryLeigh Ferguson; his brother, William Moore (Sandy); his beloved fur babies, Bailey and Poppy; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.

Gary loved working, riding motorcycles, and serving the Lord faithfully by running the sound system at church. He especially treasured camping trips with his brother and sister and made countless memories enjoying the outdoors with those he loved most. Above all else, Gary cherished his family and grandchildren, spending every moment he could surrounded by them.

He carried a true spit-fire personality — strong-willed, fearless, and full of spark. Gary never hesitated to stand up for what he believed in, and no matter the circumstance, he could always be counted on to crack a joke and bring laughter to those around him. His strength, humor, and loving heart will never be forgotten.

Visitation for Gary will be held Monday, May 25, 2026 at the First Church of God in Jackson from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM with his funeral service to be held Tuesday, May 26, at the church at 1:00 PM with Bobby Hollon officiating.

Burial will follow in the Jackson Cemetery at Jackson with David Landrum, Ron Engle, Tommy Ferguson, Braeden Ferguson, Jamie Watkins, Gary Watkins and Brannon Ferguson serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include William Moore, David Landrum, Bill Landrum and Roger Landrum.

"Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord when He cometh shall find so doing." Matthew 24:26

Though he will be deeply missed, the memories, laughter, and love Gary shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

05/22/2026

Jesse Hall Jr., age 81, of Jackson, Kentucky, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the UK Medical Center in Lexington following a brief illness. Born on December 30, 1944, in Breathitt County, Kentucky, to Jesse Hall Sr. and Maudie Herald Hall, Jesse lived a life marked by steadfast faith, dedication to family, and service to others.

A graduate of Breathitt High School, Jesse furthered his education at Morehead State University and Eastern Kentucky University, earning his master’s degree. He devoted many years to teaching in the Breathitt County School System, where he impacted the lives of countless students through his wisdom, patience, and encouragement.

Above all, Jesse was a devoted Christian and minister. For more than thirty years, he faithfully served as pastor of the Morgue Fork Church of Christ at Vancleve. His unwavering commitment to the Lord, his congregation, and his community left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Jesse found great joy in preaching the Gospel, studying his Bible, and living out his faith each day.

In his quiet moments, Jesse enjoyed gardening, collecting coins, watching the news and television programs, and spending time with his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, family, and friends. His gentle spirit, kindness, and servant’s heart will be remembered by all whose lives he touched.

Jesse is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Jennifer Jeanette Turner Hall; his children, Portia Ann Hall Dunaway (Everett), Alfred Jesse Hall (Gretchen), and Jeremy Jay Hall (Melissa); and his cherished grandchildren, Jessica Elaine Dunaway, Portia Michelle Hall, Nicholas Jay Hall, Jenna Grace Dunaway, Addyson Jayann Hall, and Jaxton Jay Hall.

He is also survived by his siblings, Malinda Herald, Sam Hall, Granville Hall (Eillene), Paul Hall (Ann), Silas Hall (Ruth), Talbert Hall, and Cora Mary Turner; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Ann McIntosh (Don), Janice Turner (Robert), Emma Raleigh (Kenneth), Brenda Turner, Phyllis Turner, and Albert Little; along with a host of nieces, nephews, church family, and dear friends who loved him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Hall Sr. and Maudie Herald Hall; his parents-in-law, Alfred Turner and Mary Lizzie Herald Turner; his sisters, Golden Rose Little and Reva Raleigh; his sister-in-law, Linda Hall; and his brothers-in-law, Grannis Turner, Alfred Douglas Turner, Virgil Herald, Carl Hargis Raleigh, and Lonnie Turner.

Visitation for Jesse will begin Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the Breathitt Funeral Home from 11:00 AM until the time of his funeral service at 1:00 PM with Albert Little, Silas Hall, Paul Hall, and Paul Noble officiating.

Burial will follow in the Jackson Cemetery with Jeremy Hall, Jaxton Hall, Alfred Hall, Nicholas Hall, and Everett Dunaway serving as pallbearers.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who visited, called, prayed, and mourned alongside them during this difficult time. Jesse’s legacy of faith, kindness, compassion, and unwavering love will continue to live on in all who knew him.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Gospel of Matthew 25:21

Breathitt Funeral Home & Monument Co.

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