Rita Hailey Grace

Rita Hailey Grace, 70, of Madisonville, KY passed away Saturday, May 14, 2022, at her residence. She was born December 11, 1951, in Hopkins County, KY. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rocky Powell Grace, and her parents, Pete Hailey, Jr. and Sue Dell Gentry Hailey.
Rita graduated from North Hopkins High School and earned multiple degrees from Murray State University. She worked for Hopkins County Schools, Douglas County (IL) Cooperative Extension Service, Pike County (IN) Cooperative Extension Service, and Baptist Homes for Children. She also served many years volunteering as a lay leader with the Pennyrile District of the United Methodist Church.
She was a member of Providence Rural United Methodist Church and attended Old Salem United Methodist Church. She enjoyed traveling, especially to the Smoky Mountains. She also loved UK basketball.
She is survived by her brother Bill (Diann) Hailey; sister Mary Anne (Vince) Medlock; nephews, Trevor Hailey, Nick Hailey, and Sam Medlock; along with many 4-H participants from Douglas County, IL.
Visitation and the funeral will both occur at Barnett-Strother Funeral Home in Madisonville. Visitation will be Sunday, May 22nd from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM. The funeral will be on Monday, May 23rd at 11:00 AM with Bro. Matt Davis and Bro. J.W. Durst officiating. Rev. Dr. Loletuth Kalz will officiate the graveside service at East Lawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks friends and family to donate to Henderson Settlement, a non-profit organization providing basic needs in Appalachia through God's love. Rita and her husband Rocky loved their organization and enjoyed supporting its mission.