James Franklin Gilkey, Sr.

James Franklin Gilkey, Sr., 86 of Nortonville passed away Monday, November 9, 2020, at Baptist Health Hospital.  Born August 1, 1934, to the late Ewing and Helen Louise (Harrell) Gilkey, Sr. of Hopkinsville.  Frank was a member of Nortonville Baptist Church and served 2 years in the Army National Guard.  He was a Hopkinsville High School graduate where he played basketball.  He was the owner/operator of Nortonville Supermarket for 44 years and a vital member of the community.  A Cats Den coffee crew member, an avid golfer and he loved Wildcat Basketball.  He enjoyed cooking for and spending time with his family.

Preceded in death by his wife, Vera Vernell (Walker) Gilkey; daughter, Laura Gilkey; son, James Gilkey, Jr.; sisters, Elizabeth Welch and Margie Shelton; and brother, Ewing Gilkey, Jr.

Survived by his son, Phillip (Phyllis) Gilkey of Crofton; 3 grandchildren, Kara (Kenny) Morell, Jessica (Steven) Gibson and David (Melissa) Gilkey; and 3 great-grandchildren, Nova Gilkey, Kolt and Kaliana Morell.

Graveside service will be held on Friday at 1:00 P.M. at New Salem Cemetery in Nortonville with Bro. Bobby Reno officiating.  Visitation will begin at 12:30 P.M. at the graveside. 

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 201, Madisonville, KY 42431.

In response to Covid-19, wearing a mask is mandated and social distancing is required.  Anyone that has or has had a fever or signs/symptoms in the past 14 days is requested to not attend.

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