James Harry King

James Harry King, 90, of Franklin, KY, passed into eternal rest at home on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, leaving behind cherished memories with his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

James, affectionately known as Harry, was born in Oakville, KY to the late Melville Anderson and Lola Ruth (Lambirth) King. At a young age, the family moved to Franklin, KY. He became a proud life-long member and part of the Rapids Community in Franklin, Simpson County, KY. He was a life-long farmer, however, he also managed the Sky Lanes Bowling Alley in Franklin and enjoyed bowling competitively. He retired from Greyhound Bus Lines in 1985 after 23 years of service, providing enjoyable travels and gathering many interesting stories. He attended the Franklin Church of Christ.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Amelia “Mae” (Bischof) King, two children, Kevin Wayne King (Melinda “Mindi” Hunter) of Ostrander, OH and James “Kelly” King (Kelly Jean Baldwin) of Hopkinsville, KY; a sister-in-law, Betty King of Franklin, KY; and 11 grandchildren, Luke King, Caleb King, Gabriel King, Teresa King, Isaac King, Thaddeus King, Andrew (Lexy) King, Anna King, Amelia King, Aiden King, and Alayna King; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Earl (Margaret) King and Vernon King; and his sister, Mary Louise King.

Harry will be remembered for loving his family, working hard, and fishing, taking his grandchildren fishing whenever he had the opportunity. He also enjoyed spending time in Smoky Mountain National Park when he could.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM CST at Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory in Franklin, KY. Visitation will continue on Friday, September 4, 2026 from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM CST. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 11:00 AM CST at the funeral home with interment to follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in Franklin, KY.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Franklin-Simpson High School, FFA Chapter in Harry's memory. The mailing address is 400 South College Street, Franklin, KY.  Attn:  Sam Evans.  Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. Please visit their website at www.gilbertfhonline.com or their Facebook page, Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. for those wishing to leave messages of condolence. For additional information, the obituary phone line is 270-586-8844, or you may contact the office directly at 270-586-4464.