William Joseph (‘Doc’) Colburn, age 99, of Calvert City, KY passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.
He was born on October 19, 1925 in Murray, KY, and was the son of the late George and Tena (Alexander) Colburn.
After growing up on the family farm during the Depression, Doc joined the Army Air Corps and served as a Gunnery Instructor during WWII. During his time in the military, he married Mary Elkins. Afterwards, he attended Murray State University and the University of Louisville School of Medicine. After earning his medical degree, Doc moved his family to Calvert City where he practiced medicine as a general practitioner in Calvert City for four decades. In addition to faithfully serving his patients, he also served the people of Calvert City as mayor for 24 years. After his decision to retire, Doc and Mary lived part-time in Venice, Florida for many years. This wonderful couple made friends wherever they were and their devotion to each other for the 69 years of their marriage was truly an inspiration.
Doc is survived by six of his seven children: Linda Dillon and husband James, Richard Colburn MD and wife Malinda, Marty Colburn and wife
Brenda, Steve Colburn and wife Lesa, Tina Muir and husband Scott, all of Calvert City, KY and Eddie Colburn and wife Sandy of Nashville, TN. Another son, Tim, passed away in 2006 and is survived by his wife Robbin. Doc leaves 10 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren.
In addition to his wife and his son Tim, he was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Harold Colburn, George Colburn, Eugene Colburn; and sisters, Teressa Hayden, Mary Francis Willoughby, Margaret Tyson, and Helen Castleberry.
A remembrance gathering will be held between 4:00 and 7:00 pm Tuesday, July 8 at the Calvert City Civic Center, 991 5th Ave SE.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Calvert City Nursing and Rehab, 1201 E 5th Ave, Calvert City, KY 42029 or Marshall County Public Library/Calvert City Branch, 949 5th Ave SE, Calvert City, KY 42029.