‘Wrigley’ named as Animal of the Year
By Animal Welfare League An eight-year-old golden retriever mix dog named “Wrigley,” who provides service to a disabled veteran, was named the 2025 Russell County Animal of the Year December 20 at the Russell County Animal Welfare League’s final event of the year, the Black Cat Bazaar held at Java Springs. Wrigley was…
Read MoreGodby named tennis coach
By Wade Daffron TJ Editor With talent, technique and tenacity, and man who could easily be described as an area legend is at the helm of the Laker Tennis Program. Christopher Godby, well-known and admired for his skill and knowledge personally, and in helping others realize their potential, was announced as the…
Read MoreDr. David Long Lawrence, 91, formerly of Jamestown
Dr. David Long Lawrence, 91, born on July 11,1934, son of Marshall M. Lawrence, M.D. and Opal Long Lawrence passed away December 23, 2025 in Port Charlotte, Florida. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Marshall M. Lawrence Jr. and sister Margaret L. Davis. David grew up in Jamestown,…
Read MoreCarolyn J. Collins, 63, Russell Springs
Carolyn J. Collins, 63, of Russell Springs, passed away Wednesday, January 7th, at home. Carolyn was born in Jamestown, KY on February 15, 1962, a daughter of the late Mary (Conover) and Luther Ashbrook. She had worked many years as a head start teacher. Carolyn is survived by: husband, Lynn Collins, of Russell Springs, KY;…
Read MoreJanice Rae Cook, 89, Elizabethtown
Janice Rae Cook, born on July 28, 1936, passed away on January 6, 2026, at the age of 89. Janice was a proud member of Elizabethtown Baptist Church and played an extremely active role in the Women’s Missionary Union. She was an alumna of Georgetown College and cherished her weekly gatherings with friends at McDonald’s.…
Read MoreVivian Lawless, 69, Shelbyville
Vivian Lawless, age 69, of Shelbyville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026. Vivian was born on September 19, 1956, in Cincinnati, Ohio, but spent her childhood and early years in Russell Springs. Vivian was a strong-willed woman with a feisty spirit and a determination that defined her life. Independent to her core, she…
Read MoreRicky Dale George, 57, Jamestown
Ricky Dale George, of Jamestown, passed away on Friday January 2, 2026, at his home. He was 57 years of age. Ricky was born on May 18, 1968, he was the son of the late Norman George and Virginia McQueary. He enjoyed talking with people while selling fruits and vegetables to them. Ricky loved to…
Read MoreMark Anthony Hopper, 46, Russell Springs
Mark Anthony Hopper, of Russell Springs, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2025, at his home. He was 46 years of age. Born December 14, 1979, in Cincinnati, Ohio, he was a son of the late Mary Jo Whittle Hopper and Lowell Hopper. Mark was employed as a manager at Neat’s Steel at the time of…
Read MoreKenneth Chester Kerns, 79, Indiana
Kenneth Chester Kerns, 79, of Bunker Hill, Indiana passed away on December 23, 2025, at Indianapolis, Indiana. He was born April 1, 1946, in Russell County, Kentucky. Ken was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Ken is survived by his wife, Vikkie; his children, Lynann (Kelly), Hope (Brice), and Lloyd (Suzanne), and their…
Read MoreSurprise, Sydney!
By Wade Daffron TJ Editor There’s probably not many “Oscar” winners connected to Russell County. But Sydney Newton has changed that. You may remember her as Sydney Fleurdelys, an effervescent, enthusiastic student within the local school system. Well-known and loved by many, she was active in the color guard, Y-club, and as…
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