Darrell Dean Pelfrey

Darrell Dean Pelfrey, formerly of West Liberty, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Baptist Health in Lexington, Kentucky, at the age of 85 years, 2 months, and 28 days.

Born on April 15, 1940, in Elamton, Kentucky, Darrell was the son of the late Victor and Susie Catherine Pelfrey. He was united in marriage to the late Carolene Sheets Pelfrey, and together they were blessed with two children, Bradford Dean and Jean-Ann, who were the pride and joy of his life.

Darrell was a man of many talents and passions. From a young age, he enjoyed bird hunting and fishing—pastimes he continued well into his later years. He served his country with honor as a member of the United States Army and was a dedicated and hardworking man throughout his life. A successful dairy farmer, Darrell also ran multiple businesses, including trucking, reclamation, construction, and later, a grocery store.

After Carolene’s passing, Darrell found love again and married Bonnie Lewis McKenzie, who devoted herself to caring for him with unwavering love and compassion until his final days.

Darrell, affectionately known as “Papaw D,” will be remembered as a loving father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He was a faithful member of Lakeview Community Church in Salt Lick, Kentucky.

In addition to his first wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters: Clarice McClain (Ora), Bernice Craft (S.E.), Ima Jean Hudd (Richard), and infant sister Robena Pelfrey.

He is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie McKenzie Pelfrey; one brother, Farrell Pelfrey (Sandy) of West Liberty, KY; his beloved children: Bradford Dean Pelfrey (Amy) of Prestonsburg, KY, and Jean-Ann Pelfrey Cunagin (Jason) of East Bernstadt, KY; and his cherished stepdaughter, Robin McKenzie May (Tommy).

He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Ali Brooke Brengartner (Brandon), Carolene Elizabeth Willhoite, Lakin James Cunagin, Courtney Day (Robert), Jenna Clay May, and Logan May (Heather); and seven great-grandchildren: Weslyn Benish, Finn Slack, Ardyn Day, Sutton Day, Hudson May, Maxwell May, and Eleanor Tatum May.

Darrell is also survived by a host of loving nieces and nephews: Melinda Blair, Cathy Bowman (Rod), Debbie Ditella (Pete), Belinda Marshall Jordan, Jennifer Sheets, Alisa Marshall Burnett (Patrick), Vickie Pelfrey Oldfield (Frank), and Nancy Pelfrey; nephews Larry Joe McClain (Lucy), Scottie McClain, Donnie Dixon (Rhonda), and John Farrell Pelfrey (Lindsay); as well as several special great-nieces and great-nephews. He is also fondly remembered by dear friends Eddie Dennison and Jimmy Byrd.

Funeral service, 1 p.m., Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at the Potter Funeral Home, with Bro. Eddie Dennison officiating.  Burial to follow in the Ezel Cemetery, Ezel, KY, with Morgan County DAV to conduct military rites.  Visitation from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at the funeral home.

Pallbearers: His Nephews and Great-Nephews.

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