Ann Durham

RICHMOND - Ann Luxon Durham, former Mayor and Community Leader of Richmond passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at her home with her family by her side. Mayor Durham was the longest serving Mayor in the history of Richmond serving three terms for a total of 13 years. During her service as Mayor, the city experienced unprecedented levels of growth and development. She and the commissions she worked with were responsible for the redevelopment of the downtown, completely transforming the look of the area, the construction of Gibson Bay Golf Course, the development of Lake Reba Park, the creation of Dillingham Park, the Community Development projects along the Irvine and Linden Street areas, working with the state for the Robert R. Martin By-Pass, the renovation of the old City Hall- now Madison District Court, the current City Hall building, a new main fire station, the expansion of the cities' industrial base bringing jobs to Richmond and the surrounding area, and an increase in the cities' boundaries. These are just a few of the many accomplishments of Mayor Durham. The entire list would be too numerous to list, but Mayor Durham was always quick to include and give credit to all those who helped with all the projects. Richmond became the fastest growing city in the Commonwealth during her tenure. She was a member of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Mayor Durham was a graduate of Columbia Christian College in Columbia, Missouri and held her bachelor's from Eastern Kentucky University. She was a Richmond business woman with many endeavors including her tenure as director and treasurer of Home Lumber Company, Inc. of Richmond and Vice President and Director on the Board of Robinson & Turley. While she did have her detractors, Mayor Durham always put the needs and concerns of the citizens of Richmond first and foremost. She always had a heart for the disadvantaged and ones in need. She served as mayor without compensation. Many lives have been touched and made better by all of her efforts. She was a leader in both words and actions. Although she was an outstanding business person and public servant, her family was first in her heart. She was preceded in death by her mother Lillian Cox Luxon and father Chester Gorley Luxon, who had also served as Mayor of Richmond. Survivors include: her husband, Rondall Durham; two sons, Ron Durham (Mary) and Chester Durham, both of Richmond; one daughter, Laura Durham King (Charlie), of Richmond; three grandchildren, Ronnie Durham, Jack Durham and William Morgan; one brother, Edwin Luxon (Janice), of Richmond, as well as several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Tuesday, April 7, 2014 at First Christian Church of Richmond, with Pastor David Evans and Dr. Glenn Birkett officiating. Burial will follow in the Richmond Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-8pm on Monday, April 6, 2014 at First Christian Church. Pallbearers will be Lee Baker, Kevin Durham, Ronnie Durham, Bill Strong, Bill Morgan, and William "Billy" Luxon. Honorary pallbearers will be Jack Durham, Debbie Conner, Harold Pearson, Bob Moody, Marsha Dunn, Elaine Embry and Betty Barclay. Oldham, Roberts & Powell Funeral Home has been entrusted with her services. Condolences may be expressed at: www.orpfh.com