Joan Kenney

Joan Kenney, age 69, of Lily, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026. She leaves behind her loving husband, James Young Kenney; three children, Kristen Perkins and husband Jamie of Lily, KY, Jimmy Kenney of Lily, KY, and Jacob Kenney and wife Ashley of Danville, KY; three siblings, Joyce Donohue and husband Denny, Jeanette Ralston of Norwalk, CT, and Jill Bowman and husband Ryan of Clemonstineville, KY; six grandchildren, Jackson, Kenna, Blayne, Adelyn, Jimmi Beth, and Aggie Lou; along with a host of other family members, friends, former students, and athletes who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Truman Ralston and Ida Louise Church Ralston; her sister, Judy Watkins; and three grandchildren, Alec, Baley, and Cole. Joan was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and her favorite title of all was “Mamaw.” She leaves behind a legacy of service, creativity, faith, and compassion. She worked for many years as an aide with the Laurel County Board of Education, where she was known for her patience, kindness, and genuine love for children. Beyond the classroom, Joan made a lasting impact as a gymnastics coach, where she mentored and encouraged countless young people. Through her coaching, she helped children build confidence, discipline, and belief in themselves, lessons that extended far beyond the gym. To so many, she was simply known and lovingly remembered as “Mrs. Joan.” She was a steady, caring presence in the lives of generations of kids and families, always offering encouragement, warmth, and a belief in their potential. She was known for her classic funny phrases such as “sit on your bucket,” “I don’t like it, I love it,” “it was made with love” and “love you more.” Outside of her work, Joan enjoyed crafts and antiques, finding beauty and meaning in creating and preserving special things. Her hands were rarely still, and her heart was always full when she was making something for others. Joan was of the Baptist faith and was saved in church, a faith that guided her life and gave her peace. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her servant’s heart, and the many lives she touched through her work, her coaching, her hobbies, and her unwavering belief. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. A funeral service honoring Joan Kenney will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 2:00 pm in the chapel of House-Rawlings Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Merrimac Cemetery in London, KY. The family will receive friends on Sunday beginning at 11:00 am until the funeral hour, also at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Jimmy Kenney, Jacob Kenney, Jackson Rush, Blayne Kenney, and Jamie Perkins. The family has entrusted House-Rawlings Funeral Home with the arrangements.

Joan Kenney

November 23, 1956 - January 15, 2026