Jackie W. Peyton, 81 of Paducah, KY passed away peacefully and walked/ran into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on December 17, 2019.
He was born in McCracken County, KY, on February 20th, 1938 to the late Elwood and Willie Peyton. He was married to Donna Karnes Peyton on February 4th, 1957. They have been happily married for 62 years.
A graduate of Heath High School, Jackie was one of the bona fide star players in Western Kentucky high school basketball in the 1950’s. The 1955-56 Heath Pirates completed an undefeated regular season at 26-0, and were ranked first in the state. The magic ride ended in a 60-59 upset by Benton in the regional semifinals. His #44 jersey and those of teammates Hoppy Birdsong #22, Billy Don Jordan #33, Eddie Williams #77 and towering 6’8 Martin Holland #88 were retired after the season and resided in the Heath High School gymnasium on display for 50+ years.
Mr. Peyton went on to play at Paducah Junior College, where he set a scoring record with 44 points in one game, while sitting out one quarter of that game.
Mr. Peyton met and fell deeply in love with Donna Karnes. They married on February 4th, 1957 and exemplified a perfect union in God’s eyes. They were an example of love for any and all who knew them. A marriage filled with commitment, compassion, love and laughter. They lived a significant time of their lives in Paducah and were part of a group of young couples known as the ‘Husband Road Gang’. They were devoted members of St. Mark UMC and gave countless hours to their church in areas including the Young Couples Ministry, UMW, UMM, serving as officers, the Youth Ministry, delivering meals/gifts, fundraising including making Hot Tamales and many, many other areas within the church. Jackie served as choir director for 20 + years.
Jackie was a ‘Lineman for the County’ for 20 years at Paducah Power System and then another 20 years of work in Ft. Lauderdale, FL for Florida Power and Light.
Jackie always put family first, so the birth of his daughter Tracy Peyton (McDonald) changed his life forever. He (and Donna) never missed an event of any kind that she was involved with. Jackie and Tracy had a father/daughter relationship full of love and respect and of course lots of laughter. Jackie loved and respected his son-in-law Mac McDonald. Jackie was thankful for his granddaughters, Jaclyn and Savannah, and cherished every moment he spent with them.
He and Donna moved back to Marshall County, where Jackie spent many, MANY days playing golf with his buddies. They have enjoyed their wonderful neighbors in KY Lake Sub-division. They’ve cherished being back home and re-connecting with classmates and friends from days gone by.
Within the last 20 years Jackie (& Donna) was a member at Mt. Carmel UMC in Benton KY. Jackie introduced the idea of a Ramp Ministry to Mt. Carmel and helped to establish the Marshall County Ramp Ministry. He continued to be very proud of the valuable work this ministry does, to this day.
Jackie joins in Heaven other family members including his sister Gayle Peyton Harmon and brother James David Peyton.
Donna, Tracy (Mac McDonald) and grand daughters Jaclyn Jones and Savannah (Chad) Zimlich will proudly continue Jackie’s legacy here on this earth.
Now #44 moves on to glory that far surpasses that which comes with basketball victories.
A Celebration of Life will be held on December 21st, 2019, visitation at 10:00 a.m. service at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Carmel UMC, 1950 Big Bear Hwy, Benton, KY 42025.
In lieu of flowers all gifts can be made to Marcella’s Kitchen or the Marshall County Ramp Ministry, 714 Lake Drive, Benton, KY 42025
Collier Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.