Paul Karnes of Gilbertsville, Kentucky passed away peacefully at age 90 on February 7, 2024.
Paul was a member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Gilbertsville.
Paul was born on November 14, 1933 to the late Edgar Karnes and Gladys Cox Karnes. Paul and Betty Jo Barrett were married on September 26, 1953 in Corinth, MS. Celebrated 70 years just last year.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Nella Jean Dexter, niece Carol Dexter and one great grandchild Cailey Evans.
Paul was a musician and playing the guitar and the steel guitar brought him many years of pleasure and took him many places. He was a huge Merle Haggard fan. He loved to hunt and fish. Paul retired from Penwalt (Arkema) in Calvert City, Kentucky after 30 years. He owned and operated Karnes Radiator Shop for nearly 20 years. Paul, Betty and Paula moved to Michigan in 1957 where he started working for his brother-in-law. He branched out on his own and starting his own tool and die business with his good friend Don Milner. He and his family moved back home to Kentucky in 1967 and he started working at Penwalt. Paul served in the Korean War.
Paul is survived by his loving wife, his daughter Paula Rae Evans (Darrell), his son Troy Mason Karnes (Cindy) and son Jeffrey Wayne Karnes. His brother Frank Karnes (Linda). He is also survived by four grandchildren:
Chad Evans (Brittany), Chase Karnes (Candice) Cara Evans Chandler (David) and Alex Karnes. Great grandchildren: Conner Evans, Collin Evans, Grace Evans, Carley Evans, Ava Chandler, Alana Clark-Miner, Abbey Clark, Clarissa Evans, Mason Karnes, Lilly Kate Karnes, Ariana Karnes, Aaron Evans and Alley Evans. Step grandchildren Cody Chambers (Chelsea) and Chelsy Chambers. Step great grandchildren Lily Chambers, Lydia Chambers and Alaney Chambers. Also several nieces and nephews.
Per his wishes, Paul will be cremated and no services will be held.
Collier Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.