Brenda Sue Stephens, 56, of Russell Springs

July 26, 2026 WJRS Staff Obituaries, WJRS News

Brenda Sue Stephens, age 56, of Russell Springs, passed away Sunday, July 26, 2026 at Jean Waddell Hospice of Lake Cumberland. She was a Certified Nurse Assistant and attended Parksridge Church of God.

She was born on Sunday, January 4, 1970, in Chicago, IL.

She was the daughter of:

Mother – Mary Ramey Stanley, of Russell Springs, KY
Father – James Monroe Smith, who has preceded her in death

Survivors also include:

2 Daughters:

Kendra Raquelle Jackson, of Woodbine, GA

Elizabeth Nikole Smith, of LaGrange, KY

3 Sisters:

Vicky Stanley (Ervil) of Columbia, KY

Monica Hackney (Mikel) of Russell Springs, KY

Linda Smith (Richard) of Russell Springs, KY

1 Brother:

Hurley Smith (Melissa) of Cub Run, KY

Five grandchildren also survive.

There will be no services. Wilson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements

Community Conversation 7-27
Russell County Public Library Director Cody Gabehart discusses one of the library's biggest summers ever, with record attendance at programs and events, including the popular RCPL Con. He also shares updates on The Green project, featuring a new sensory play space, walking trail, and community pavilion, while highlighting upcoming back-to-school initiatives, tutoring opportunities, and expanded programming designed to serve families and students throughout the year.
Community Conversation 7-24
In this episode of Community Conversation, Jeff Hoover welcomes Russell County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent Megan Gullett to discuss the many programs and services offered through the Russell County Extension Office. Megan shares updates on a busy summer that included 4-H Camp, county fair activities, and canning classes, while highlighting upcoming opportunities for the community.The conversation covers Extension Homemakers clubs, volunteer efforts, the local book club, food preservation classes, pressure canner testing, and upcoming cooking demonstrations featuring healthy recipes and easy family meals. Megan also explains how residents can get involved in Extension programs and stay connected through the Russell County Extension Office.
Community Conversation 7-22
Jeff Hoover welcomes members of the Adair County 16U All-Star Girls Softball Team and assistant coach Grace Loy. The team recently captured the Kentucky Senior League Softball State Championship and was competing in the Super Regional Tournament in Lawrenceburg.Coach Loy and players from both Russell County and Adair County discuss their championship run, the chemistry between the combined team, their journey through the tournament, and their hopes of advancing to the national championship. Hear from the young athletes about their love for the game, teamwork, and representing their communities on the softball field.
Community Conversation 7-21
In this episode of Community Conversation, Jeff Hoover talks with Dr. Samantha Gaddie, founding director of Campbellsville University's new agriculture program. Dr. Gaddie discusses the launch of the university's new agriculture degree, the hands-on learning opportunities available to students, the importance of supporting Kentucky's agricultural industry, and her vision for preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders. Learn how this new program will partner with local farmers and provide students with practical experience while staying close to home in South Central Kentucky.
Community Conversation 7-15
Jeff Hoover talks with Joyce Holt and Mike Berry about the 7th Annual Relay for Life Benefit Ride benefiting the American Cancer Society, including this year's new Biker Bingo fundraiser and ride details. He is also joined by Scott Jones and Daniel Buster from the City of Russell Springs to discuss an upcoming wood bat baseball tournament and the city's first-ever free Back to School Bash at Russell Springs City Park.