Obituaries

Edward Rawls, 86, of Independence, KY, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 10:21 p.m. He was the beloved husband of Alice Rawls (Haney), with whom he shared 68 wonderful years of marriage. Ed worked at the Miami Margarine (New Maid) Company for 41 years and was a devoted member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church. Known for his kindness and generosity—he would literally give you the shirt off his back—Ed was deeply loved by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Papaw." A true basketball enthusiast, Ed’s love for the sport was undeniable. He spent countless hours cheering for his favorite team, the University of Kentucky Wildcats, and even more hours playing the game. His passion extended into the community, where he coached youth sports and served as an umpire, always encouraging families to be involved and support their children.

Together with his wife, Ed owned and operated the local favorite “Alice’s Restaurant and Deli,” a home-style restaurant they ran for 20 years. The interior was famously decorated in UK blue, attracting many basketball players who would stop in to admire his collection and snap photos with the dedicated fan. Family meant everything to Ed. As each grandchild was born, he lovingly cared for them and took great joy in nurturing their growth. Local children also knew they could stop by for a visit—and a treat—usually his favorites, candy corn or Raisinets. Ed’s heart was deeply broken by the loss of his grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his grandson, Derek Rawls; great-granddaughter, Mandalyn Seibert; a grand son-in-law David Willoughby, and great-great-grandson, Grayson Seibert. Also preceding him in death are his parents Walter Rawls (Naomi) Ruby Clark (Emmet) and his daughter, Donna Marie Rawls; his siblings, Alice Young, James Rawls, Lloyd Daniel, and James Daniel.

He leaves behind a loving legacy and a large family who will deeply mourn his loss: his wife Alice Rawls (Haney), children; Connie (Mike) Nicewonder and Mark Rawls, siblings; Ruth Ann Elbert, Mary Boyle, and Martha Messingschlager, grandchildren; Amanda (Gary) Seibert, Rene'e (Matt Roth) Willoughby, Frank ( Angie) Armstrong, Daniel (Brittany) Nicewonder, Mckaylah (Richard) Koury, Erika (Steve) Smith, Jordan (Kadie) Rawls, great-grandchildren; Lil Gary, Jonathon, Derek, Jordan, Dylan (Kaitlynn), Lil Frank “Tiny”, EllieMae, Jude, Jackson, Harper, Brayden, Magdaline, and Ava, great-great-grandson; Weston, he was blessed with many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly particularly his nieces Jeanie and Dorene, whom he shared a special bond, and many work friends, and extended family members.

Please join the family in honoring and remembering the remarkable life of Ed Rawls. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at: Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home 11382 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051 A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m., and Ed will be laid to rest at Highland Cemetery, next to his infant daughter.

The family invites friends to stop by his wife, Alice Rawls home after the services for a light social gathering and time of remembrance. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Ed’s honor to the Children’s Home of Northern Kentucky by clicking here.