Percell & Sons Funeral Home, Inc. | Elizabethtown, KY

Obituary For COL (Ret) Louis B. Wingate

COL (Ret.) Louis Bernard Wingate, 57, of Elizabethtown, KY, died on March 28, 2021 at Robley Rex VA Medical Center in Louisville, KY.

COL Wingate was a native of Darlington, SC and the son of the late Edward and Eva Wingate. He was a member of St. Stephen Church and retired from the U. S. Army attaining the rank of Colonel. He was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.

Survivors include his wife, Arthella Wingate of Elizabethtown, KY; two sons, Austin Wingate and Andre Wingate both of Elizabethtown, KY; one brother-in-law, Dwayne T. Williams (Nadine) of Evans, GA.

Funeral service will be 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at Percell & Sons Funeral Home.

Visitation will be from 6:00 - 8:00 pm on Monday, April 5, 2021. Omega Services will begin at 19:06.

COL Wingate will be interred with military honors on Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery .

Guest Book

COL Wingate was a Awesome Commander and a very sweet and caring man. God Bless. You will be truly missed. Prayers to the family. Much love and respect always. Karen Henderson🙏🏽❤️

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Prayers and blessings to my sister, confidante, and role model. Stay strong in love and faith. God does not make mistakes. Your hubby is now your guardian angel. Embrace the transition. Tea roses to Arthella, Austin, & Andre. You are missed COL Wingate! ~Nia Aaron

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We cant believe you are gone your legacy will always continue. The Wingate family is very dear to our heart. You were a father to our sons and a brother. Forever in our hearts love the Watkins family

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Our hearts are hurting for this wonderful family. Mr. Wingate you will be deeply missed. You was a great impact to our sons and we are forever grateful. Love the Watkins Family

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My condolescences to the Wingate family as you lay my dear friend to rest. Crunch it broke my heart to hear this news as we shared some fun and crazy memories together which I will cherish forever, the rides home from MHS band practice, you stepping in as a big brother at SC State for my tryouts at SC State Band and the many conversations and encouragement you shared with me to keep pushing me to the next level. You will be forever missed and thanks for the friendships and smiles. RIP Friends forever Sharon Hamlin.

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There are no words that can ease the pain of a loss loved one like our commander, thank you family for allowing us to have his leadership and candor, with sincere sympathy! SGM Gloria Tyrell!

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Thank you COL (R) Wingate for the Honor and Privilege of being your Executive Officer while you served as DCO at HRC STL. Your inspirational Leadership and Warrior Ethos brought great transformations within the lives of all you served. My deepest condolences to your family. Rest in Peace Sir! LTC (R) Sandra Burt

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Dear Soror Renee', you , Austin, Andre & all your family are in my 🙏🏿prayers. There are many Prayer Warriors beseeching our Heavenly Father on your behalf! May His Presence, Peace, Protection & Provision be with you! You are loved. Sister A.M.Wesley & Family

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My sincere condolences to the family. I am praying for your comfort, peace and strength during this difficult time. Rest well Sir. Scouts Out!! 2/60th IN BN🙏 CSM(Ret) Vickie Hall

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Sincere prayers and words of comfort to the Wingate family's. Col Wingate was a great Leader, Role Model and Mentor. His words of wisdom was always timely and appreciated. To the family, May God blessed you and family's in this time of loss. Sincerely CPT (Ret) Bogan.

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Lou was an extraordinary soul that touched the hearts of everyone he worked with. A great leader and friend, with the pleasure and memories of working with him at both at HRC-STL and HRC-Fort Knox, his legendary smile will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with the Wingate Family and the Army community as we mourn this great loss.

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Sending my condolences and prayers to Colonel Wingate's family and to the entire Wingate family. I got to know the man some family members called Crunchy through several family reunions and visiting him and Renee at their home in Elizabethtown, KY. I admired his friendly demeanor, his strong inner strength and love for his family. He will certainly be missed but his loving memory will remain in the hearts and souls of so many. Glad for the opportunity and privilege to see how he touched so many lives in a positive way. Jim Briggs, husband of Cle Briggs

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Renee', you and your family have been, and will continue to be in my prayers. My heart goes out to you during your time of loss. Keep holding on to the Master's hand; I know He will see you through this storm.🙏🏾 Love you Sis. ❤️ Debra Yates

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My heart is heavy. Renee, Austin and Andre, I send my deepest condolences and prayers to your family. Colonel Wingate (Bernard) was a great friend and this world is a better place because he was here. When today started without him, we tried to understand, that the angel called his name and took him by the hand and told him, his resting place was ready. Bernard is forever with us, through the many great memories we shared. Thank you for sharing him with us. Rest in Peace My Friend Sonia DeYampert LTC(R)

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My Sincere Condolence to the Wingate Family in the Homegoing of our HRC-STL leader. Colonel Wingate became our leader at the time of transitioning to another base, Ft Knox. Many soldier, like myself, will miss his leadership and ability to care for the families under his authority. God Bless his family LTC(ret) Gray

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With love and prayers for the Wingate Family at this time with the transition of the beloved Bernard Wingate. Thank you for your service and your talents.Q

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Arthella, Austin, Andre, Wingate family. I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Husband and Father Crunchy. I have fond memories of cousin Crunchy as a younger boy spending my summers in South Carolina with my mother's side of the family, I always enjoyed getting to see him. Even back then Crunchy was strong in character, kind and a leader, those qualities remained as he became a strong man. I hope as you go through this painful time and in those moments in the future, that you will come to know and have the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, that will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.(Phil.‬ ‭4:7‬) Tori Rivers, son of Cle Buggs.

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The Mayo High School class of 1981 of Darlington, South Carolina extend our deepest and sincere sympathy to you in the Home-going of your husband, father and friend to many, Colonial (Ret.) Louis Bernard "Crunch" Wingate. We share a close and lasting relationship with Bernard, and we know how much you will miss your loved one; but we also know that we share in the same faith. It is perhaps in times like these, whereas, we are to be reminded that we are on the Lord's mind; and that He is mindful of us and all that we go through. This promise we trust. We are also mindful that the Lord will comfort those that are in need of comforting. Please know that we are praying that the peace of God, which passes all understanding will be with you during this time of bereavement. Therefore, we encourage you to remain faithful and know that our Heavenly Father will sustain you and strengthen you in this season. Prayerfully Submitted, Our class of 1981 Mayo High School.

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Lou was an incredible man. I worked with him for 3 years at U.S. Bank, sitting in the cubicle in front of his, and cannot express the sadness I have hearing the news. The joy he brought to me and my team couldn't be expressed in words. He will be missed greatly. My prayers are for his family for strength through this difficult time.

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May God keep The Wingate family at peace. LTC (RET) Mickel Sawyer, SCSU c/o 83.

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Peace be with you. I'm deeply sorry for your loss. COL Windgate spoke at my promotion ceremony and pinned me COL. He was a brilliant leader, compassionate warrior and intuitive mentor. COL(Retired) Karen Chambers

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Words can not express how sorry we are with the loss of Bernard. You have our deepest condolences. We will always have those special memories together.

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Renee, I am so sorry for your loss. I will be sending prayers of comfort. Love to you,your sons and family. Love, Kari Hall and family

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Dear Renee, Austin & Andre, please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your husband and father. I had the pleasure of knowing "Lou" for more than 20 years to include serving with him at Fort Jackson and the Pentagon. He was an inspiring leader and proud Soldier. More importantly, he loved and adored the three of you. We had many lengthy conversations over the years and I cannot a single conversation without an update on each of you. Lou afforded me the gratifying honor of hosting his promotion to Colonel. I will always remember how important it was for him to have his family present. Please know that he left an indelible mark on our Army and all of those he touched. Both Alissa and I will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. MG & Mrs. Michael T. Harrison, Sr.,USA (Ret)

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Our hearts hurt for Renee, Austin and Andre. We loved your husband and dad so much. He was a great man, great soldier and great friend. We will miss him so much. He is in heaven and will be with you forever. Sending lots of love and prayers to all of you. Love, Kevin and Renee Finnegan

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Thank you sir for being a light in our life at HRC STL and helping me realize the value of my own. To the Wingate family I share my deepest condolences and will light my white candle as he ascends to Orun as your beloved ancestor to continue guiding you in a different realm for the generations to come. I will always remember that orange camaro he used to drive and park in the commander's slot everyday! Axé O! Thank you Sir! SFC (R) Tiffany Skelton

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My condolences to the Wingate family and will keep you in our prayers. I will never forget the leadership COL Wingate provided at HRC-STL and I will always remember how it was standing room only when he received his award. The presence then reflected the impact he had on so many of us. The Nelson Family

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It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that Deidre and I extend our most heartfelt sympathies to Arthella and the entire Wingate family. Lou "Crunchy" and I were fellow Marching 101 members, Kappa Kappa Psi Line Brothers and Alpha Phi Alpha Brothers, as well as Brothers in Arms. From our college days throughout our military careers to our last conversation, Lou could always be counted on for offer wise counsel and uplifting words. The world is a much better place as a result of his positive impacts to the lives of so many people. But God has decided to bring him home to reward him for a job well done. Rest well in Heaven dear Brother! With Bulldog Tenacity, COL(R) Gerald Gladney SCSU Class of "84

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I am dearly shocked and hurt by the news I have heard about Mr. Wingate. He was always welcoming and kind hearted. The most memorable part about Mr. Wingate is how motivating he was for the younger generation. He would always tell me to keep your head up when things go wrong and not to give up. With a close relationship with his family, It is so sad to see him go. However I will say that Legends do live on. I love you Mr. Wingate, and thank you for you words, kindness, and motivation. Fly High R.I.P. - Martin J. Turnley

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It's challenging to express how much of an imprint Lou made not only in my life but to others fortunate enough to work with him. From the moment we met at U.S. Bank I had a true friend; kind, compassionate, an advocate for his teammates, and never missed a chance to brag on his boys. My sincerest condolences to Arthella, Austin, Andre, and the extended family.

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I am saddened to hear of Lou's passing. I knew him well at HRC-St Louis and at Fort Knox. He was instrumental in the successful merger of the personnel commands. He was also a warm "people" person who truly cared for those in his charge. His passing is a huge loss to the human race!!!

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Condolence to the Wingate family for the loss of your dear loved one. Death is something we never get use to yet during this time of such great loss we can go to our Heavenly Father for comfort. 2Corinthians 1:3,4. No doubt he helped many people in his lifetime and God remembers that. May you find comfort in knowing that your dear loved one is safe in the memory of God.This gives us the hope of seeing our loved ones again. Acts 24:15. May these words be a source of comfort to you today and in the the days to come. Your Cousin, Doris Hampton Jennings

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We crossed professional paths as Assignment Officers and Commanders;he provided sound advice that impacted some of my most poignant business decisions; we mixed words when he encouraged me to repair my sister-friend relationship with his best girl, he was right on that one; and he was a beloved and dedicated shadow-mentor and neighbor. We will miss him. Raymond, Courtney, and Radcliff City Councilwoman/LTC(Ret) Terry Owens.

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My sincere condolences to the Wingate family, COL Wingate always had a smile on his face and was willing to help. Praying for the family for continued strength. Ms Mary Gathers

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At times like this our grief is so heavy. A loss as monumental as this leaves a heartache no one can heal. The capacity to feel such grief and pain allows us to embrace the love and beauty of Mr. Wingate's life. The reality of his passing will forever change us so let's cry together and little by little we can heal through love.

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My condolences to the Wingate Family. So sorry to hear of your loss. Joe Robinson (COL Ret) SC State Class of 82

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Wingate Family, Please accept my deepest sympathies and condolences. The few times I met with Mr Wingate and worked with him at Ft Knox, he left a great impression on me. I wish I had the opportunity to have worked with him more and gotten to know him better. You all are in my Prayers.

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I was so saddened to hear of the loss of Lou. Although I never met him in person, I worked in the same group as Lou at U.S. Bank and he was a gentle soul who always had a kind word. I wish his family and friends peace as they cope with his loss. Angela Peterson

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Sir, words can not express the lost the world has now that you've answered to a higher calling. Thank you for sharing your energy in this realm with us. Now you serve as a community ancestor. Asé Asé Ase'Oooo Chautauqua Denean

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Sir, words can not express the lost the world has now that you've answered to a higher calling. Thank you for sharing your energy in this realm with us. Now you serve as a community ancestor. Asé Asé Ase'Oooo

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Bernard, it just does not seem real to be reading your obituary. You were indeed a good friend and brother. Meeting our freshman year at SC State was one of the highlights of being at school. You always had a smile and that funny burst of laughter was soon to follow. After both our retirements from the Army, it was so good to chat with you from time to time and especially to see you and Arthella at Homecoming a couple of years ago. What a pleasant surprise to run into you and share a word and some joy. That made my homecoming experience that year especially good. I am really sadden to learn of this news but am grateful that our paths crossed. Take your rest my dear friend from Darlington. I can hear that funny joke and laughter echoing in my mind as I bid you Farewell. I will indeed miss you Frat Brother. COL (Ret) Michael A. Brown, 85'

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My prayers are with your family, Sister Arthella Wingate, and your sons, Brothers Austin and Andre' Wingate, during your time of bereavement. May God comfort you with the Holy Spirit and future joy in blessed memories of Brother Col. Louis B. Wingate. - Alpha Phi Alpha Brother Dr. D. Anthony Everett

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SCSU Class of 1987 send out prayers and condolences to the family of our classmate. Forever rest in peace.

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Deepest sympathy to the Wingate Family.I was shot to hear of his passing.I met COL(Ret) Wingate at HQ, Cadet Command while he was the G3 shop. He used an office in RMID Section before retiring from active duty.It was good to see another person from South Carolina State College Bulldogs.I saw him at the Post Office at Fort Knox. Rest in Peace! Theo Myrick Myers, Class of 80.

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God Bless you brother Wingate for a life well lived, keeping your family and our family lifted in prayer. 1 Corinthians 15:54-58. Bernard O. Walters and family.

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Prayers are with your family! R.I.P. Classmate ~Barbara Grant Franklin

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My heart is heavy because Bernard was great force of light on this earth very caring man husband and father if he could help he would with love and care rest my brother because you are the best now in the army of lord love u sister arthella 🙏💛

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Louis, I often wondered where you were. I see you had a successful career and great life. Now, you have another great journey in your new eternal life. Cheers! Your college roommate! Travis Graham Bulldog'86

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Our Prayers and Condolences are being sent to The Wingate Family. May the peace and comfort of God cover you. We love you. Virtual hugs are being sent your way. May Bernard rest with The Lord.

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Sir, It was an honor and privilege to have served with you @ HRC St. Louis MO; Your speech as incoming Commander still resonates in my mind, your care for Soldiers and Families made a lasting impression in my heart ❤️. A True Leader! May Gods Angels Welcome 🙏 you into Heaven and May Gods Angels comfort your family. You will be missed

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Man, my heart is heavy...Condolences to the family of a great Brother, Husband, Father, Sibling, Mentor and Friend. He was one of the major driving force of why me and my LBs are an Alpha. He meant a lot to me because he (and his family)opened their home to help me and my LB's thru our life's journey. S.I.P. My Good Bro🤙🏽🖤💛

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My condolences to the Wingate Family our paths crossed at Morris College when I was a cadet. I am grateful to have had the opportunity be one of your Cadets and later regular army. RIP Sir and continued prayers for the Family. CW3(RET) Gadson Lincoln

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Sir, I will always be indebted to you for your mentorship from when I was a cadet at Morris College. You was that Big Brother and positive male role model I never had growing up. You mold me into the officer and professional that I had become today. I hope I made you proud and didn't disappointed you. MAJ (R) Frazier L. Epperson

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COL Wingate was a great Commander, a great leader, and truly a great friend to many of us who worked under his Command at HRC-STL. His passing is truly devastating to us all. My heart felt prayers go out to the Wingate family. He was always open and welcoming whenever I needed an ear to listen, and he gave so much of himself to so many when they needed him to be there. Rest Peacefully, Sir. Until we meet again.

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Sending my condolences to the Wingate family. I worked under COL Wingate's leadership while assigned to HRC-ST Louis, Resource Management Directorate. He will truly be missed and always remembered.

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Mr. Wingate I am so sorry I did not get to meet you in person! But its was nice to meet you on LinkedIn. my heart goes out to your family with my deepest sympathy and may you Rest in peace- God Bless. Kimberley Ryles, Fort Knox, KY

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Sir, I am so sadden to hear of your transition to your heavenly home. I met you as a Cadet at Morris College very raw in 1994. Because of your example you set by showing me what right looks like I have become the man I am today. You showed me how to love your spouse. I became an Alpha because of you. I loved my family because of you. I chose Field Artillery because of you. I am grateful that I was able to tell you on more than one ocassion what impact you have had on my life. We (my family and I and the Morris College ROTC Program) are forever indebted to you. LTC(R) Eric Graham

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I am saddened to hear of the passing of COL Wingate. I served under COL Wingate when he was the Commander Army Human Resources Command - St. Louis and vividly remember him leading the HRC-STL organization through its closure in St. Louis and eventual move to Fort Knox, KY. Many years later, I had the honor of working with now Mr. Wingate when he rejoined HRC-Fort Knox as the Deputy of the Reserve Personnel Management Directorate. It was so nice to hear a familiar voice on the phone when working together once again. My thoughts and prayers are with the Wingate family in this challenging time. ~ COL(Ret) Andreas Thum, Fairfax, VA

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Words cannot express the sadness I feel in my heart for the loss of such a wonderful person. I had the honor of working with Lou at U.S. Bank and cherish the conversations we had, especially at group outings. Lou would always had us laughing and his smile was ever so contagious. Rest in Heaven, my friend. You will be missed by so many. Respectfully, Karen Lindstrom

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Green candle for all the Grinch memes we shared while you worked at U.S. Bank. I'm sorry we'll never get to go out for that Korean BBQ like we always talked about. I'll miss your sense of humor and snazzy dressing. -Love, Fe

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I am so sorry to hear about Lou passing, he was a wonderful U S Bank teammate who always kept me laughing. You will be forever missed. Fly high Colonel until we meet again. Teresa Griffin

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Bernard, "Crunch" as his high school classmates called him was a beloved member of the Mayo High School Class of 1981. We deeply mourn his passing. Bernard was a member of band, ROTC,Teen Peer Counseling and a school bus driver. Bernard joined us for Zoom class meeting last month. Our alma matter has a line that goes, "For friendships that never die..." Rest in peace "Crunch."

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Mr. Wingate you will be missed and much love and prayers are with your family. My God surround them with all the goodness , support and love The Merritt Family

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Our family is very saddened to know our friend and mentor has left us to be with the Lord. He will truly be missed. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Prayers to his family for the strength through this difficult time. - The Jones Family

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Percell & Sons Funeral Home, Inc. | Elizabethtown, KY