Jay R. Barlow

Jay R Barlow, born on November 21, 1918, died on June 22, 2014 in Atlanta, GA, where he had recently moved. A resident of Frankfort, KY since 1963, Mr. Barlow is survived by his children Cathi Barlow and Chris Barlow of Atlanta. Mr. Barlow was preceded in death by his infant son Gregory Scott Barlow, his wife Marble Ayers Barlow, his parents Dode and Jay D. Barlow and his siblings Mary George Ward (Harlan), Dr. Fred Barlow (Louisville), Dessie White Wilson (Pineville), and Dot Freede (Oklahoma City). A gregarious and active man, Jay was a lifelong golfer. He loved nothing more than to tell stories of a life filled with an amazing series of experiences, friends and acquaintances. Born and raised in coal country, Jay began his work life in the mines of Harlan County (for 1 ½ days!). He quickly moved on to a career in radio broadcasting, politics, state governmnet and lobbying. Following 14 years in broadcasting, he was elected Jailor and then Sherriff of Harlan County. He served in various capacities in the administrations of Governors Combs, Breathitt, Carroll, Jones and Chandler. He served as Assistant Secretary of State, Director of Security for the Thoroughbred Racing Commission, Director of the Equipment Division of the KY Department of Transportation and as a member of the KY Crime Commission and the Advisory Commission of Small Coal Operators. Jay was an active member of the Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church. In keeping with his request no services will be held; his ashes will be sprinkled in the ocean off the Georgia coast. Donations in Jay’s memory may be made to the Masonic Home Chapel (Shelbyville, KY), Hospice of the Bluegrass (Lexington, KY) or the children’s program at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, (Midway, KY).