Andrew Earl Kilbourne, Jr., known variously as Earl, Buddy, Buddy Earl, Dad, Daddy, Granda, Grandpa Earl, Paw Paw, and Honey, made his Irish goodbye to the sky on June 29, 2025. He was 81.
Born on December 15, 1943, in Menifee County, Kentucky, Earl attended Glasgow High School, graduating in 1962. There he distinguished himself as a leader in student government, multisport varsity letterman, and track standout. He attended Western Kentucky University, receiving both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. While at Western, Earl was a member of the university track team and Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity.
A dedicated public servant, Earl worked for the Kentucky Cabinet for Human Resources Department for Employment Services for forty years. In his retirement, he spent his time playing cards and golf, traveling to the beach, reading countless novels, and watching his Kentucky Wildcats.
He is survived by his loving wife Brenda, known always to him as “Baby.” He is also survived by his sister Pat; former wife Sue; seven children: Andy (Melissa), Susannah, Natalie, Kris (Dagny), Heather (Brad), Errin, and Wes (Stephanie); nine grandchildren; and one great grandchild.
Earl requested to be cremated with his ashes scattered on the Kilbourne family land at Shady Acres by Barren River Lake in Lucas, Kentucky. A celebration of Earl’s life will be scheduled for a later date and promises to include deviled eggs, Bloody Mary’s, and “Old Time Rock and Roll.”
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society and/or the Bowling Green Warren County Humane Society.
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