Joseph Walter Wyles
Joseph Walter Wyles, a man of deep faith and strong character passed away on May 24, 2025, at the age of 81 in Paris, Kentucky. Born on January 4, 1944, on Greenwich Pike in Lexington, Kentucky he was a steadfast presence in the lives of all who knew him.
Joe was united in marriage to his soulmate, Barbara Parr Wyles, with whom he shared a beautiful journey of 57 years. Together they were blessed with two children Jennifer (Jeff) Herrin and Jeremy (Miranda) Wyles and five grandchildren; Rachel Herrin, Isaac Herrin, Abigail Herrin, J.W. Wyles, and Delta Wyles. He is also survived by a special cousin Barbara (Rankin) Carter and several nieces and nephews. Joe was proceeded in death by his parents, Walter P. Wyles and Elizabeth Thompson Wyles, granddaughter Abigail Herrin and brother and sister-in-law James W. (Ada) Wyles.
He was a graduate of the University of Kentucky, obtaining both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Joe dedicated nearly four decades of loyal service to the University of Kentucky at Eden Shale Research Farm in Owen County. He served as farm manager from 1979 until his retirement at 2005. Joe touched the lives of many through his service in Owenton First Christian Church, where he served in numerous capacities from Sunday School Teacher to Chairman of the Board. He believed in the power of faith and hard work and stood as an example to others in both his professional and community roles. His leadership was evident in the various organizations he served: the Southern States Co-op Board in Owenton, Owen County Fair Board where he was Superintendent of the Beef Show for many years, as well as supporting the local 4H and FFA chapters. Joe’s love for his family was unparalleled. He was a sports fan with a particular passion for the University of Kentucky basketball and football, the Cincinnati Reds and the Bengals. His pastimes included fishing, tending to the land, giving back to others and spending time with his family.
Joe Wyles leaves behind a legacy of hard work and integrity. His absence will be profoundly felt, but his spirit will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known him.
The family extends their deepest thanks to Joe’s caregivers over the past six years. Especially Donna Bussell, Stephanie Bova, Ann Maronde, the staff of Bourbon Heights and the staff of Bourbon Community Hospital.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM Saturday May 31, 2025, by Pastor Scott Winkler at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY. Burial will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery, Paris, KY.
Visitation will be from 4-7 PM Friday May 30, 2025, at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be Jeff Herrin, John Parr, Jr., Robbie VanHook, Gene Ray Stewart, Steve Wright, and John Layton.
Honorary Pallbearers will be John Parr, Sr., Jim Allison, Thomas Congleton, Ronnie Coffman, Dr. Don Ely, Dr. Debra Aaron, Eugene Caldwell and Pat Colligan.
Memorials may take the form of contributions to Owenton First Christian Church, PO Box 453, Owenton, KY 40359; Twin Pines Christian Church, 1139 Tanbark Rd., Lexington, KY 40515; Old Union Christian Church, 6827 Russell Cave Rd., Lexington, KY 40511; to your local 4-H or FFA Chapter or to one’s favorite charity.
The funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY. The online guestbook is at www.luskmcfarland.com and a 24-hour funeral information line can be reached by calling 859-987-4387.
