Obituaries

Joseph Wayne Schwaller, age 85, of Covington, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Hospice in Edgewood, Kentucky.

Joe was a retired independent truck driver, a proud U.S. Army veteran, and a member of Community Family Church. Known as the go-to guy in his family, Joe was always willing to lend a hand and share his know-how. He had a lifelong passion for working on, restoring, and refurbishing trucks and furniture, often spending countless hours in his garage doing what he loved. When he wasn’t there, Joe could be found outdoors, taking great pride in caring for his yard. Above all, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph C. and Catherine Grimm Schwaller, his beloved wife, Irene Hensley Schwaller, and his grandson, Ryan Smith.

He is survived by his children: Tim Yeager; Jack Yeager (Debbie); Joe Schwaller (Kelly); Sandy Smith (Rick); Gayle Hensley (Mike); and Renee Felinski (Joe); along with eighteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and brother, Rodney Schwaller (Sue).

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, with funeral services beginning at noon at Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home, 11382 Madison Pike, Independence, Kentucky 41051. Interment with full military honors will follow at Independence Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ryan Smith Scholarship Fund, c/o Community Christian Academy, 11875 Taylor Mill Road, Independence, Kentucky 41051.