Earl Given, 79, of Spencer, went home to be with the Lord, August 21, 2019.

He was born January 17, 1940 at Widen, the son of the late Hamilton and Lola Butcher Given.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Reba Eagle Given; and his loving grandmother, Belle Butcher, who raised him.

Survivors include his loving wife, Linda Simmons Given; daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie and Bill Pittman, Tammy Given, Rhondella Campbell, Machelle and Tony McCann; son, Randy Given; stepson and daughter-in-law, Billy and Kelly Morehead; 14 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, two step grandsons and one step granddaughter.

Being born at Widen, Earl took great pride in creating and maintaining the historical record of names of the small coal mining community.

He will be greatly missed but his legacy will live on in his love of nature, no nonsense approach to life and “do it right or don’t do it at all” work ethic he instilled in those he loved.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, September 1 at the Samples Reunion, Strange Creek, followed by a dinner.

Special thanks to all of the wonderful hospice caregivers, who provided loving support during his illness.

The family requests donations to Hospice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.taylorfuneralhomeinc.com.