Huston "Wayne" Ethington

Huston “Wayne” Ethington, Age 81 of Defoe, passed away on Saturday morning, April 11, 2026, at Norton Women’s and Children’s Hospital with his devoted granddaughter and her husband by his side. Born on Tuesday, July 25, 1944, he was the son of the late Huston and Naomi Elizabeth (Chisholm) Ethington. One of eleven children, Wayne was a devoted family man who led the large Ethington family with love and compassion. He was married to the love of his life, Bonnie Lou (Mcgaughey) Ethington for over 57 years before her passing in 2022. Together they shared many wonderful memories and had a true love that was evident to all. Wayne was a hard worker his entire life, and a dedicated employee at General Electric, retiring with over 30 years of service.

A faithful servant of God, Wayne was a longtime member of Pleasant View United Methodist Church, where he led the singing and assisted with worship. Most recently, he attended Grub Ridge Community Church, where he had been instrumental in keeping the church open, and Elmburg Baptist Church. Although, a lifelong Christian, last year Wayne felt called to be baptized and reaffirm his public profession of faith at Restoration Life Church. Regardless of where his membership was on the roll, Wayne rarely missed a revival at a neighboring church or any opportunity to praise the Lord. His faith and unwavering prayer were an inspiration to many.

A kindhearted, gentle spirited man, he was a pillar of the Defoe community and Henry County. He helped anyone and everyone and oversaw several needs in the community, such as taking care of the Defoe Cemetery for decades and raising a garden every year to benefit friends and neighbors. Like most Ethington men, Wayne pulled horses with his brothers, winning many awards and accolades throughout the years. An avid fisherman, he enjoyed sharing his catch with others at the countless fish fry’s he hosted. He rabbit hunted often, always having his beagles and a shotgun nearby. His favorite team was the University of Kentucky Wildcats, with whom he loyally cheered on.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, he is preceded in death by his son, William “Wally” Ethington; sisters, Elizabeth Hunt, Mary Sue Ethington, Roselyn Ethington, and Patsy Brewer; brothers, Hubert Logan, Jimmy, Oscar David, and Eddie “Possum” Ethington.

Left to cherish his memory is his granddaughter, Gabriella Ethington Abfall (Chris) of Pleasureville; sisters, Teressa McKee (Dave) of Frankfort, and Beverly Creasy of Shelbyville; adopted family, the Ben and Cassie White Family of Defoe; many nieces and nephews, and a host of extended family and close friends.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 11 AM on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Beckley Funeral Home with Reverend Michael Luttrell Officiating. Reverend Nathan Shaw, Reverend Brad Jennings, and Reverend Kevin Wagler will Assist. Interment will follow in the Defoe Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2 PM until 8 PM on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Beckley Funeral Home and from 10 AM until the time of service on Saturday. To honor Waynes’s dedication and preservation of the cemetery, memorial contributions may be made to the Defoe Cemetery, 2492 Hillspring Road, Pleasureville, Kentucky 40057. With Care and Professionalism, arrangements are under the direction of Beckley Funeral Home.