Owen Lynn

Owen Lynn, age 97, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on May 14, 2026, at the Illinois Veterans Home at Anna. He was born on August 28, 1928, in Humboldt, Tennessee, and lived a long life marked by hard work, steady faith, and generous devotion to others.
 
He served his country honorably in the United States Army and was a Korean War veteran, carrying the values of duty and perseverance throughout his life. After his military service, he built a respected career in finance, working for Home Credit and Franklin Finance before retiring from Barclays American Credit, where he served in the Consumer Loan Division. He later continued his service to the community for 20 years as the McCracken County Tax Administrator, a role in which he was known for his reliability, integrity, and strong work ethic.
 
Mr. Lynn was a faithful member of Fountain Avenue United Methodist Church and lived his beliefs through kindness, humility, and service to others. He was honored as a Kentucky Colonel, a recognition that reflected the esteem in which he was held by those who knew him. He was also known far and wide as the “Tomato Man,” a title he wore with pride after planting 115 tomato plants every year and never accepting a cent for them. He had a large garden and took great joy in sharing its bounty with friends, neighbors, and anyone in need of fresh produce. Farming had been a part of his life since the age of 4, and he remained deeply connected to the land throughout his years.
 
Owen loved his Boston Terriers and found great companionship in their loyal presence. He also maintained an impressive commitment to health and discipline, walking 10 miles on a treadmill three times a week well into his 90s. His determination and vitality were admired by all who knew him. Above all, he cherished his role as Papall to his grandson, and that relationship brought him great joy and pride.
 
He will be remembered as a man of strength, generosity, and quiet devotion, someone who worked hard, gave freely, and loved deeply. His life was a testament to faith, family, service, and the simple goodness of sharing what one has with others. Those who were fortunate enough to know Owen Lynn will remember his steadfast spirit, his warm heart, and the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him.
 
Owen is survived by his daughter, Jennifer “Jenna” Shather, and her husband, Greg, of Paducah; two grandsons, Ryan Shather and his wife, Starla, of Paducah, and Brett Shather of Lexington; one niece, Patty Favor of Kettering, Ohio.
 
He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Judith Russell Lynn; his mother, Clara Owens Lynn, and one brother, Rev Charles Lynn.
 
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Fountain Avenue United Methodist Church with Rev. Eddie Smith and Mr. Danny Orazine officiating. Burial will follow the service at Mt. Kenton Cemetery.
 
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Fountain Avenue United Methodist Church from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
 
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to: Illinois Veterans Home at Anna, 792 N. Main, Anna, IL 62906, or Fountain Avenue United Methodist Church, 300 Fountain Avenue, Paducah, KY 42001.
 
Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.
 
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