Kelly Wilkins

Kelly Wilkins, age 72,  passed away on August 26, 2026, at his residence in Bandana, Kentucky.

Born on August 20, 1954, in Benton, Kentucky, Kelly lived a life marked by courage, passion, and an adventurous spirit that touched everyone who knew him. He carried himself with quiet strength and a steady kindness, and he was the kind of man who could be counted on in both ordinary moments and times of need. Those who loved him will remember his warm presence, his strong work ethic, and the deep devotion he showed to his family, friends, church, and community.

Kelly retired from the Paducah City School System, where he served faithfully as a custodian. He took pride in his work and understood the value of serving others with humility and consistency. His years in the school system reflected the dependable character for which he was known. He attended the Bandana Community Church, where his faith and fellowship were an important part of his life. In addition, he was a member and past Master of the Grahamville Masonic Lodge #707 F&AM, an association that reflected his commitment to brotherhood, service, and tradition.

Kelly was especially well known for his love of sports and his dedication to young people. He was one of the first organizers of Fastpitch Softball at Paducah Tilghman High School and served as assistant coach from 1996 to 2000. He was also an assistant coach for Travel Ball for various teams for several years, sharing his knowledge, encouragement, and enthusiasm with countless players. He believed in hard work, teamwork, and the value of helping young athletes grow both on and off the field. His influence reached far beyond the scoreboard, and many will remember him as a coach who cared deeply and led by example.

He also enjoyed volunteering with 4-H in the Kentucky State Horse Show alongside his daughter, an experience that reflected both his love for family and his willingness to give his time to meaningful causes. Kelly found joy in being involved, in supporting others, and in creating memories that would last long after the events themselves had ended. His life was enriched by the many roles he embraced, and he approached each one with dedication and heart.

Kelly is survived by his wife of 50 years, Debbie Creason Wilkins; his daughters, Ashley Zortman and her husband, Gary, of Louisville, Kentucky, and Sarah Smith and her husband, Matthew, of Symsonia, Kentucky; and his three grandchildren, Hailey Zortman, Bailey Smith, and Lainey Smith. He was a proud husband, father, and grandfather, and his family was the center of his world. The love he gave them was steady and enduring, and the memories they shared will remain a lasting source of comfort and strength.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Cooper Smith, and by his parents, William J. Wilkins and Emma Jean Thompson Wilkins. Their memory remained an important part of his life, and he carried their influence with him throughout the years.

Kelly Wilkins will be remembered for his steadfast nature, his generous spirit, and the many ways he served others throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, leadership, and love that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Funeral services with Masonic Rites will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah, with Rev. Curtis Creason and Rev. Wesley Peeler officiating. Burial will follow at Harmony Cemetery.
 
Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
 
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.