Cora Ellen McKinley

Cora Ellen McKinley: Cora Ellen was born on October 9, 1936 to her loving parents, Louva and Edwin Medley. She and four siblings, Edwin, Margaret, George, and James grew up in Owensboro, KY. A proud alumna of Owensboro Catholic High School, Cora graduated in 1954, before pursuing higher education at Nazareth College (now Spalding University), where she earned her bachelor's degree. Furthering her academic journey, she obtained graduate degrees from UofL and WKU. In 1957, Cora married the love of her life, David McKinley. They were married 32 years, until David's passing. The couple was blessed with five children: Laura Holst (Bill), Mike (Jeanne), Scott (Cindy), Ellen Stufflebeam (Marty), and Russell (Bridget). Cora's family continued to grow, with eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Later, Cora married Rudy Hall in 1992. Their marriage spanned 18 years. Cora was the director of the University of Southern California and University of Denver programs at Fort Knox. Later she worked at the Cancer Care Center at Hardin Memorial, where she devoted two decades to helping others. Beyond her work life she was a member of St. James Church where she worked in many areas including Youth Group and RCIA. Her lifelong involvement with the Girl Scouts of America reflected her passion for empowering young girls. As a member and former president of the Elizabethtown Women's Club, Cora championed numerous causes, leaving an impact on her community. Cora’s life was enriched by her role as a military wife for 20 years, navigating the challenges and joys that came with it. In 1977, she and her family settled in Elizabethtown. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Peridot Senior Living, RobinBrooke Senior Living and Hosparus for their care and kindness towards their mother.

Family and friends are invited to visitation at Brown Funeral Home on September 4th from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

A funeral Mass celebrating Cora's remarkable life will be held at St. James Church, located at 307 West Dixie Avenue, Elizabethtown, KY. The service is scheduled to begin at 11:00 on September 5th.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Cora's memory to Hosparus Health of Central Kentucky, or St. James Church.