Milner and Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services

Milner and Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services For generations our family has been helping area families through the difficult days of their lives. In 1926, Roy M.

Our goal is to compassionately guide families through difficult times by providing a professional staff, exsquisite facilities, and personal service. Around Western Kentucky, many families can trace their roots back over a century or more. Well, that's how long we've been serving the community with caring service, personal attention, and a heritage that has continued for seven generations. We star

ted as a small general store in the town of Lowes, Kentucky. The family business was an important part of the daily lives of the families around Western Kentucky. In the late 1800's, caskets were made and sold at the general store. During the early 1900's, the Lowe family began funeral services. Lowe attended mortuary school and built a state-of-the-art funeral home in 1940. The family horse-drawn hearse soon gave way to newer funeral coaches. Andrea Milner Orr's parents, Judith and Billy Joe, soon expanded the family's trade by opening in other small Kentucky communities. Today, Andrea and Randy Orr offer the caring family service in five locations: Paducah, Lone Oak, Bardwell, Wickliffe, and Arlington. For over 150 years, Western Kentucky families have trusted Milner and Orr because we're hometown folks. We know the area, we know you, and we believe in families helping families.

Richard “Rich” Lee Ogle, 53, of Ledbetter, Kentucky, passed away on August 2, 2026, at the Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice ...
08/03/2026

Richard “Rich” Lee Ogle, 53, of Ledbetter, Kentucky, passed away on August 2, 2026, at the Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center at Mercy Health Lourdes in Paducah, Kentucky. He was born on May 23, 1973, in Tacoma, WA.

Richard was a proud veteran who served nine years in the United States Army after graduating from high school. Following his military service, he became a surgical technician and traveled to different states throughout his career.

Richard had a great personality and a special ability to make people laugh. He enjoyed life and was known for bringing humor and smiles to those around him. He was a devoted fan of the University of Kentucky basketball and loved listening to Toby Keith. He would turn up Toby Keith’s music and play it loudly whenever he had the chance.

Richard is survived by his son, Dakota Lee Ogle, and his daughter, Macy Jean Ogle, both of Jackson, MO; his mother, Donna Ogle of Ledbetter, KY; his sisters, Rochelle George (Tom) of Paducah, KY and Robin Livesay (Chuck) of Ledbetter, KY; his nieces, Skyler Plementosh (Matt) of Williamsburg, KY, and Charlee George of Marion, KY; his nephews, T.J. George of Salem, KY, and Hunter Downs (Ashlyn) of Waynesburg, KY; his only aunt, Judy Ogle of California; his two great-nephews, Henry Plementosh and Elliott Downs; and two special cousins, Angela Binford of Oregon and Mark Byrum of California.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry L. Ogle; his paternal grandparents, Bill and Minnie Ogle; and his maternal grandparents, Louis and Betty Sharp.

Richard will be remembered for his service to his country, his laughter, his outgoing personality, and the joy he brought to those who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

The family requests that expressions of sympathy in Richard’s honor be made to the Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, Kentucky.

The family will hold a private memorial at a later date. Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah are in charge of all arrangements. Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.

Laura Dotson-Dodson, born on June 1, 1971, in San Francisco, California, passed away on August 1, 2026, in Paducah, Kent...
08/03/2026

Laura Dotson-Dodson, born on June 1, 1971, in San Francisco, California, passed away on August 1, 2026, in Paducah, Kentucky.

One of Laura’s greatest joys was crocheting. She found peace and purpose in creating with her hands, and her work reflected the care and attention she brought to every part of her life. She also had a deep affection for animals, and her gentle nature extended naturally to the creatures she cared for. Her love of animals was yet another expression of her tender spirit and her appreciation for the comfort and companionship they brought. Above all, Laura was a loving mom, grandmother, and wife. Her family was the center of her world, and she devoted herself to them with unwavering love and loyalty. She took great pride in her role as a mother and grandmother, and she cherished the moments spent with her children and grandchildren. Her home was a place of love, laughter, and support, and her presence brought a sense of stability and warmth that will be deeply missed. As a wife, she shared her life with devotion and grace, building a partnership grounded in care and commitment.

Laura is survived by her husband of four years, Stephen Dodson of Paducah; a daughter, Kayla Davidson of Paducah; three grandchildren, Hailee Rose Davidson, John Curtis Swanson, and Sophia Lea Davidson; and a brother, Tom (Cindy) Dotson of Evansburg, Pennsylvania.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Thomas Dotson and Karen Allmon Dotson; and a brother, Sam Dotson.

There are no services scheduled at this time.

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

Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com

Kathryn James Strohmeier was born into the arms of Jesus on July 31, 2026. Though our precious daughter never took a bre...
08/02/2026

Kathryn James Strohmeier was born into the arms of Jesus on July 31, 2026. Though our precious daughter never took a breath in this world, she was deeply loved, wonderfully made, and treasured from the very beginning. Though our time with her was brief, her life has left an everlasting imprint on the hearts of her family.

Kathryn was the cherished daughter of Matt and Paige Strohmeier. She is survived by her loving parents and her siblings, Henry, Eleanor, and Rosemary, who will always hold her close in their hearts.

While we grieve the loss of the moments we had hoped to share with Kathryn, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. We find comfort in knowing that she is joyfully in His presence, and we look forward with joyful hope to the day when we will meet her in heaven and be together forever.

Our family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support that have surrounded us during this difficult time. Thank you for your continued prayers and support as we rest in the hope of Christ.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Pastor Mickey Brown officiating.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until the 11:00 am service time on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Kathryn's life may make a memorial donation to the family to help provide a lasting monument in her honor: 28 E Hamletsburg Rd.,Brookport, Il 62910, or a donation can be made to Abel Speaks, a 501(c)3 organization.

We are grateful for every prayer, act of kindness, and expression of love shown to our family.

Zelta Lou Younker Counts, 96, of Melber, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Ferrell Hospital in Eldorad...
08/01/2026

Zelta Lou Younker Counts, 96, of Melber, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Ferrell Hospital in Eldorado, Illinois.

Zelta was born on June 5, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan. She lived most of her life in Michigan, where she retired from Hudson Department Store as a Department Manager. After retirement, she moved to Melber, Kentucky, to be closer to family, where she was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and sang in the choir.

Zelta is survived by two grandchildren, Lexi Counts of Romulus, Michigan, and Kyle Counts of Wayne, Michigan; two great-grandchildren, Julian Smith and Caroline Counts; a sister-in-law, Betsy Younker of Louisville, Kentucky; several nieces and nephews; Caregiver, Lauren Smock.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin ‘Roy’ Counts Jr.; two sons, Mike Counts and Mark Counts; a sister, Judy Bufford; and a brother, Ralph Younker. Her parents were Jimmy and Eleanor Winquist Younker.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home (3745 Old US Highway 45 S., Paducah, KY) with Rev. Bruce Fogle officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until the service hour of 1:00 pm at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home.

The family would like to express their utmost gratitude to Lauren Smock for the extended Love and Care she gave to Aunt Zelta.

Expressions of sympathy may be given in the form of contributions to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 6705 Old US Highway 45 S., Paducah, KY 42003.

Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com

George “Mel” Hayden, 66, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospic...
07/31/2026

George “Mel” Hayden, 66, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, surrounded by his family.

Mel was born on September 14, 1959, in Paducah to the late George B. Hayden Jr. and Joann Woeltz Hayden. He was a graduate of Paducah Tilghman High School. In 1984, Mel began his career with what was then known as Pressure Pack, now Worthington. He dedicated 34 years to the company before retiring. Mel was known for being an incredibly hard worker and was the kind of man who would not stop until the job was done.

Mel’s Chevy truck and Harley-Davidson motorcycle were two of his favorite things. He rode his Harley effortlessly and especially loved riding to the river, which was always his favorite destination. He was a natural navigator who knew the roads like the back of his hand and could tell you the history behind nearly every one of them.

Mel loved all things scary, which made his time working at Mt. Carmel Cemetery a perfect fit for his personality. While most people would shy away from it, Mel embraced it with the same humor and curiosity that defined him. It seems only fitting that he will now be laid to rest in the very cemetery where he once worked.

He was a big jokester who always tried to look on the bright side of life. No matter the situation, he could usually find a way to make light of it and bring a smile to those around him. He loved spending time with his family, especially joking around and “messing with” his grandchildren.

Mel also had a big sweet tooth, with Red’s Donuts being a particular favorite. He enjoyed going out to eat with his wife, Debra, and sharing a good meal together.
He shared a special bond with Sabrina, his 100-pound lap dog, who was often close by. Sabrina frequently shared Mel’s food—sometimes willingly and sometimes not so willingly.

Mel was also easily recognized by his signature red flannel and one of his most memorable comforts: a blow dryer. Whether the air was hot or cold, he loved the feeling of it blowing on him. It brought him comfort, much like the feeling of the wind while riding his motorcycle. He always made sure to have backup blow dryers nearby. One Christmas, nearly everyone in the family unknowingly bought him one, each believing they had chosen the perfect gift. It became a funny family memory and a reminder of just how well everyone knew and loved him.

Above all, Mel cherished his family. Whether sharing a meal with Debra, taking a ride to the river, spoiling Sabrina, or making his grandchildren laugh, he found joy in the simple moments. He will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his contagious sense of humor, his unwavering love for his family, and the countless stories he left behind.

Mel is survived by his wife of 48 years, Debra Hayden of Paducah; one daughter, Jessica Morgan of Paducah; one son, Daniel Hayden and wife, Laken, of Paducah; three sisters, Margie Heiar of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Linda Obrian of Paducah, and Patsy Hayden and husband, Tommy, of Paducah; one brother, Phillip Hayden and wife, Melody, of Paducah; four grandchildren, Andrew Collins, Madison Hayden, Austin Collins, and Russell Hayden; and four great-grandchildren, Michael Collins, Gatlin Hayden, Hayden Purvis, and June Purvis.

In addition to his parents, Mel was preceded in death by two brothers, Joe Hayden and Bernard Hayden.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Father Stephen Than officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah. Visitation will also be held on Monday from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour of 12:00 p.m.

Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.

Donald W. Case, known affectionately to many as D.W., passed away at Baptist Health Paducah on Wednesday, July 29, 2026,...
07/30/2026

Donald W. Case, known affectionately to many as D.W., passed away at Baptist Health Paducah on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, in Paducah, Kentucky, at the age of 78. He was born on September 4, 1947, in Paducah, Kentucky, to the late Melvin Joseph and Virginia Mae Hale Case.

He was a native of Paducah and a proud graduate of Paducah Tilghman High School. After graduating from high school, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. He served with honor and distinction, completing three tours in Vietnam; those who knew him understood the pride he carried for having served.
After his military service, D.W worked as a welder at Marine Ways, a job he loved deeply. He also worked with the Paducah Sun and Waggoner Moving and Storage Company.

Donald enjoyed watching old westerns, especially those featuring John Wayne and Clint Eastwood. Music was also an important part of his life. He loved Patsy Cline's voice and also found comfort and beauty in classical music. His favorite artist was André Rieu, whose performances reflected the elegance and emotion that he so admired. He loved the outdoors and found great pleasure in hunting and fishing. These pursuits gave him time to reflect, to enjoy the peace of nature, and to share in traditions that connected him to family, friends, and the world around him.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Deborah Eilene Valentine Case; two daughters, Barbara Jean Case (Chris) Dillworth of West Paducah, KY, and Melinda Anne Case Purvis of Paducah; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; and a brother, James Michael Case of Paducah.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, David A. Case, and two infant daughters.

There are no services scheduled at this time. Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah are in charge of all arrangements. Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.

Cristy Michelle Driver, age 53, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on July 29, 2026, in the city where she was born and s...
07/30/2026

Cristy Michelle Driver, age 53, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on July 29, 2026, in the city where she was born and spent her life surrounded by the people and places she loved.

Born on September 8, 1972, in Paducah, Kentucky, Cristy carried with her throughout her life the warmth, strength, and kindness that so often defined her. She was a woman who valued family above all else and found joy in the simple, meaningful moments that made a house feel like home. Her presence brought comfort and light to those around her, and she will be remembered for the love she gave so freely to others.

Cristy was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ, and her faith was an important part of her life. Through her beliefs, she found guidance, peace, and a sense of purpose that shaped the way she cared for others. She lived with a gentle spirit and a generous heart, and those who knew her could see the sincerity of her faith in the way she treated everyone she met.

She enjoyed anything arts and crafts, especially scrap booking, and she took great pleasure in creating and preserving memories. Her creativity was one of the many ways she expressed her love for her family and the life she built. Cristy also loved her cats and enjoyed thrift shopping, finding happiness in the treasures she discovered and the comfort of the companionship she shared with her beloved pets. These interests reflected her thoughtful nature and her appreciation for the beauty found in everyday life.

Above all else, Cristy’s greatest joy was her family. She cherished her role as Nana to her grandchildren, and that title was one she held with deep pride and affection. Her grandchildren brought her immeasurable happiness, and she treasured every moment spent with them. She was a source of love, encouragement, and steady support, and her family will forever hold close the memories of her laughter, her kindness, and her unwavering devotion.

Cristy is survived by her husband of 10 years, Tommy Howard; one daughter, Chantell Driver (Sara Carlock) of Bowling Green; two sons, Alex Driver (April Pearson) of Hardmoney, Noah Driver of Paducah; step-mother, Kay Driver of Paducah; 12 grandchildren, Landen Driver, Trevor Jackson, Tommie Pearson, Tate Pearson, Trinden Martin, Chance Martin, Jocelyn Strickland, Alyssa Strickland, Jayce Leonard, McKenna Howard, Thomas Leonard, and Zoe Leonard, along with several great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Roy Driver; mother, Linda Elizabeth Haley Driver; and sister, Kimberly Driver.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Pastor Patricia Sallee officiating.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026, from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.

Debra Lynn Martin, 71, lovingly known as Debbie, passed away on Monday, July 27, 2026, in Paducah, Kentucky, in her husb...
07/28/2026

Debra Lynn Martin, 71, lovingly known as Debbie, passed away on Monday, July 27, 2026, in Paducah, Kentucky, in her husband's and daughters' arms. Debbie was born on December 3, 1954, in Paducah, Kentucky.

Debbie shared 46 devoted years of marriage with her husband, a partnership built on love, loyalty, and enduring companionship. Together, they created a life filled with memories, shared experiences, and the kind of bond that stands the test of time. She was also a devoted mother and grandmother, and her family was the center of her world. Debbie took great pride in the people she loved, and she found joy in the everyday moments that made family life meaningful.

Debbie retired after a long career as an Inspector for Mattel Toys, where she was respected for her dedication, reliability, and strong work ethic. She approached her work with care and responsibility, and she took pride in doing her part well. A true free spirit, Debbie had a lifelong love of motorcycles and rode for more than 46 years. The open road brought her joy, independence, and a sense of adventure that remained with her throughout her life. Riding was more than a pastime to her. It was a reflection of her personality and the way she chose to live, with courage, confidence, and a deep appreciation for the journey. She found fellowship as a member of the Free Spirit Biker Church, where her faith and love of motorcycles came together in a community that understood her spirit.

She is survived by her husband, Herb Martin of Paducah, Kentucky, a daughter, Michelle Martin-Thorne (Chris), along with three grandchildren, Jaxon Smith, Lucille “Lucy” Martin, and Lola Thorne. Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Moyers and Lucille Turner Moyers; three sisters, Elizabeth Riley, Jenny Estes, and Cindy Crowell; and a brother, Leroy Moyers.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM- 8:00 PM on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.

A Funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Bro. Dennis Lawrence officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery in Benton, Kentucky.

Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com

Charles E. Marshall, 85, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026.Charles was born on July 23, 1941,...
07/27/2026

Charles E. Marshall, 85, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

Charles was born on July 23, 1941, to the late Hollis and Marie Terrell Marshall in Paducah, Kentucky.

Charles built a respected career as an executive with the Illinois Central Railroad and was of the Lutheran Faith.

Charles also found joy in the interests that brought him relaxation and companionship. He enjoyed antique cars and appreciated the craftsmanship, history, and character found in them.

He also enjoyed breakfast with his buddies, a tradition that reflected his love of friendship, conversation, and the comfort of familiar routines.

Charles is survived by his wife, Sandra Reid Marshall; a daughter, Beth Marshall (Chris Foster) of Idaho Springs, Colorado; two step-daughters, Ginger Keach (Donnie James) of Paducah, Kentucky and Michelle Martin (Darrell) of Benton, Kentucky; a granddaughter, Jeannie Carpenter; step-granddaughter, Chandler Headdy.

He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Spirit Fay Knapik; a brother, George Marshall. And his parents.

There will be no services.

Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.

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120 Memorial Drive
Paducah, KY
42001

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