Sharlene (Ray) Blackburn

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Sharlene Ray Blackburn of Tomahawk, Kentucky on June 25, 2025 at the age of 78 at the Hospice Care Center. Sharlene struggled with several chronic illnesses the last few years and was a cherished sister, aunt, granny, sister-in-law and friend to many. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and unwavering strength. 

Sharlene was born May 26, 1947 in Johnson County, Kentucky to John Asa and Dorothy Ward Ray. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by a daughter, Stephanie Blackburn Farnham and a special "traveling partner," Floretta "Cricket" Coleman. 

She is survived by three grandchildren, Shelby (Matt) Dalton, Asa and Ava Farnham, one sister, Doris Ray Blevins, niece Jane Blevins McClelland (Jack) and nephew Jerry Blevins (Shelli) and two great-grandchildren, Theo and Stephanie Dalton. Also left to cherish her memory are many special cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and dear co-workers. She agonized over leaving her grandchildren, but her love and memory will live on with them, her family and friends. 

"Shar" and "Shy Bug" as she was called, attended Morehead State University and went on to work 35 years for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. She loved to joke, laugh, tease and enjoyed reading and watching cooking videos. Though she achieved much and helped many, Sharlene will be remembered most for the love she shared, her generous spirit and the strength of her character. She was a beacon of light and kindness in the lives of her family and friends. 

Through the years, she was a loyal supporter of Sheldon Clark girls' basketball teams where she spent many hours in the stands cheering, working concession stands, running with travel ball and volunteering at school. She was an avid fan of UK basketball and her armchair coaching of the CATS never wavered no matter who the coach was, a big lover of ALL things Elvis and a fan of Roller Derby which she watched religiously with her daddy. While hauling cousins and the Coleman girls to Inez ballgames, cruising town and drive-in movies, most adventures included a stop at The Dairy Queen. 

As we say goodbye, we celebrate a life well-lived. Please join the family at Crum Funeral Home, 498 New Route 3, Inez, KY  41224. We will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, June 29, 2025 from 1 PM to 3 PM (family is welcome at 12 PM) with words of comfort to follow from cousin Jack Ward. Burial will follow at the Ray Family Cemetery, Tomahawk, KY. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Hospice, 2330 Pollard Road, Ashland, Kentucky or your favorite charity. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.crumfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Crum Funeral Home of Inez, Kentucky. 

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