The Obituary Section

Joseph "Josie" Kmiec

, Kentucky

October 6, 2026

Joseph Kmiec, 69, of Metropolis, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, with his loving wife by his side. He was born on June 12, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois.Following his graduation from high school, Joseph proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, where he faithfully served his country before receiving an honorable discharge. He later pursued a career as a truck driver and eventually retired from The Workshop in Galena, Illinois.Joseph had a lifelong passion for fishing and enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially fishing and camping alongside his wife, Maria. Above all, Joseph was a devoted family man who treasured every moment spent with his loved ones. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his pride and joy, and nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with them and making lasting memories.Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Maria Kmiec of Metropolis, Illinois; his parents, Ed and Gerri McKeown…

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Lanita Gail Draffen Hayes

, Kentucky

October 9, 2026

Lanita Gail Draffen HayesLanita Gail Draffen Hayes, 71, of Paducah, passed away on October 10, 2026, at St. Thomas Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.Born November 16, 1954, she was a proud 1972 graduate of Lone Oak High School and retired after a 27-year career as a Compliance Officer with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.Lanita treasured life's simple joys, including attending concerts with her daughter, listening to Elvis Presley and Hank Williams, Jr., and vacationing in Gatlinburg with her husband. One of her most cherished memories was a special trip to Hawaii with her husband. She also adored her three dogs, Freya, Katie, and Thor, and treasured spending time with her family.She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Shirrel Hayes II; her daughter, Sherry Scillion and husband Evert of Benton; two brothers, Ronnie Draffen and wife Nancy of Paducah, and Johnnie Draffen and wife Brenda of Paducah; three grandchildren,…

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Melissa Ann Dowell

, Kentucky

June 30, 1970 — October 10, 2026

Melissa Ann DowellMelissa Ann Dowell, known lovingly as Melissa, passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at her residence, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, and quiet strength. Born on July 1, 1970, in Paducah, Kentucky, she lived a life marked by steadfast belief, generous service, and deep love for her family and her Lord.Melissa was a Biblical Scholar whose life reflected her devotion to Scripture and her desire to share God’s word with others. She was a faithful member of Healing Word Ministries in Smithland, Kentucky, where she taught Bible classes with patience, wisdom, and a sincere heart for helping others grow in their understanding of the Bible. Her faith was the foundation of her life and guided her every step. Melissa believed the Lord told her to travel to Faith Life Church in Branson, Missouri, and she answered that calling with obedience and joy. There, she served…

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David Wayne Downs

, Kentucky

David Wayne Downs, age 65, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on May 24, 1961, David lived a life marked by dedication, deep family devotion, and an unmatched work ethic.David began pouring and finishing concrete at the young age of 15, starting a lifelong career defined by craftsmanship and grit. For over 45 years, he successfully owned and operated his own concrete business. He was happiest when operating a backhoe or maneuvering heavy equipment, always content when his hands were busy and a job was being well done.Beyond his work, David was the ultimate "fixer." If something was broken, David was the first call anyone made. He had a natural gift for understanding how things worked-knowing a little about a lot-and he used that knowledge selflessly to help others. Generous to a fault, he was the kind of man who would literally give you the shirt…

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