Joe Henry ‘Papa Joe’ Spires, 103, of Campbellsville, passed away Monday, October 14, 2024 at Bluegrass Way Senior Living in Campbellsville. He was born on November 29, 1920 in Knifley ot the late Ancil H. and Martha Elizabeth Mings Spires. He was preceded in death by his wives, Betty Jean Morgan Spires and Gladys Reece Spires.
Mr. Spires was a member of the Kellyville Community Church and a veteran of World War II serving in the U. S. Army. He was baptized at the age of 78 and loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Mr. Spires became “Papa Joe” 60 years ago when his first grandson was born and has been known by most of the community as that ever since. He enjoyed traveling all over the United States and especially locally to all the small country stores visiting and telling stories.
Survivors include four children, Donnie Spires (Wanda) of Campbellsville, Roger Spires of Columbia, Judy Burton (Randall) of Columbia and Ann Jessee of Bowling Green; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; a sister, Imogene Giles of Knifley; two sons-in-law, Phillip Burton of Glasgow and Jimmy Sexton of Bowling Green and several nieces, nephews, friends and other relatives.
In addition to his parents and wives he was preceded in death by two daughters Gueta Burton and Kathy Sexton; a grandson, Tyler Jessee and eight siblings Junior B. Spires, Beatrice Phipps, William Spires, Robert Spires, Clifton Spires, Lillian Burton, Francis Hancock, and Ivan Spires.
Funeral services was held Thursday, October 17, 2024 at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral home with burial in Roley Cemetery and full military honors provided by VFW Post 6097.
Visitation will be on Thursday from 10 am-2 pm at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home.