Joseph W. “Sonny” Felts, Jr., age 87, of Paducah, passed away peacefully Saturday, February 6, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family.
A lifelong resident of Paducah, Sonny was born on August 10, 1933 to the late Joseph William Felts, Sr. and Thelma Kaufman Felts. He attended St. John Catholic School and graduated from Paducah Junior College. Sonny was a member of St. John Catholic Church where he and his wife, Barbara were actively involved. They both dedicated their time and helped organize the annual St. John Picnic and various Knights of Columbus events. You could find him cooking barbeque or frying fish for the occasions. He served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and was a member of the VFW. Sonny was an avid UK Wildcats and St. Louis Cardinals fan but he was most proud of coaching his own children’s little league teams.
He is survived by two daughters, Lesa Smith, husband, Kent of Ledbetter and Sandra Garland of Paducah; two sons, Daniel Felts of Paducah and Michael Felts of Lexington; seven sisters, Delores Reed O’Nan (Albert), Mary Lee Anderson, Carol Osborne (Jim), Jeanne Abell (Dart), Phyliss Sims (Van), Kathy Hibbs (Mike), Betty Conkwright (Larry) all of Paducah; one brother, Cletus Felts (Sandra) of Paducah; nine grandchildren, Laura Fletcher, Karen Hamang, Patrick Felts, Kendal Martin, Kris Smith, Ryan Smith, Laken Smith, John Mark Garland and Apryl Veldman; and sixteen great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Barbara Nell Wurth Felts; his son, Kenneth Felts daughter-in-law, Michele Felts; one brother, Harold “Sappy” Felts; two brother-in-law’s, Joe Reed and Bill Anderson; and his parents.
A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at St. John Catholic Church with Father Bruce Fogle officiating. Burial will follow with military honors at St. John Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home with prayers at 5:00 p.m.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to: St. John Catholic Church, 6705 Old US Hwy 45 S, Paducah, KY 42003.
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During this difficult time of Covid, you may show your support by joining the “Hugs from Home” program where your message will be attached to a balloon in the chapel to remind the family of your love and support. Please go to www.milnerandorr.com to share a hug, send a message or light a candle.