Danny Gaines passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at the Ray and Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center in Paducah, Kentucky.
Danny was born on September 25, 1947, in the small community of Tiline in Livingston County to the late Thomas and Christine Brown Gaines.
At 20 years old, Danny joined the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged two years later, carrying with him a deep sense of pride in his service.
Danny loved spending quiet moments fishing, playing a round of golf with friends, and most of all being “Papaw” to his three grandchildren, who were the joy of his life. Known for his talent with tools and his willingness to help, Danny was the one family and friends called when something needed fixing. He never hesitated-helping others came naturally to him.
Danny was a simple, home-centered man who found his greatest happiness in spending time with his wife, Carolyn. The two did everything together, sharing a bond built over decades of love, laughter, and everyday life. Their two dogs, Beau and Tucker, were never far behind and brought Danny endless comfort and companionship. Before his health declined, he especially enjoyed time spent with Clyde Jr., who always knew how to lift his spirits and make him feel like himself again, even if Danny was doing more supervising than working.
Danny was a faithful member of Lone Oak First Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carolyn Gaines of Paducah, KY; one son, Brent (Jennifer) Gaines of St. Louis, MO; his brothers, Thomas “Tommy” Gaines of Murray, KY, and Lanny (Aleta Faye) Gaines of Smithland, KY; and his three grandchildren, Isabella Christine Gaines, Abigail Gaines, and Will Gaines.
He was preceded in death by his son, Tracy E. Gaines; and three brothers, Terry Gaines, Robert “Bob” Gaines, and Jeff Gaines.
There will be no services at this time. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services are in charge of arrangements.
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