Obituary
Guest Book
Audrey Jean Johnson, age 81, of Corbin, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the Christian Health Care Center in Corbin.
She was born on October 11, 1944, in Knox County, Kentucky. Audrey was a woman of faith, strength, and resilience. Audrey was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Johnson; son, James Ray Johnson; granddaughter, Angel Renee Johnson; parents, Oscar Shelton, and Freda and Lewis Jones; brothers, Kenneth Jones and wife Carolyn, Charles Jones and wife Betty, Sarah Cobb; sister-in-law, Laura Lumpkins; brothers-in-law, Ernie Lawson, Wade Cobb, and Randal Buchanan. Additionally, her sister, Vergie Bane passed away the day after Audrey on February 2, 2026.
Audrey was a member of Bethesda Baptist Church, where she spent many cherished hours in fellowship with her faith community. Her love for the Lord was evident in all aspects of her life, from her work to her hobbies. Audrey retired from being a cook at Baptist Health in Corbin, Kentucky, showcasing her nurturing spirit and dedication to her community. From the hospital kitchen, her lovingly prepared meals nourished both body and soul, providing comfort and care to countless patients and staff members over her many years of service. Audrey's retirement never dampened her passion for service and community, as she continued to bring joy and comfort to those around her through her love of singing and writing.
She is survived by her children, Rita Smith and husband Gene of Corbin, Dawna Hensley and husband Edwin of Gray, KY, Matthew Johnson and wife Becky of Georgetown, KY; special daughter-in-law, Betsy Johnson of Corbin; grandchildren, Edwin Hensley and wife Mindy, Richard Hensley and wife Amanda, Kimberly Dykes and husband Brandon, Elesa Mills and husband Josh, Caitlyn Hunley and husband James, Nicholas Johnson, Cason Johnson, and Hailey Johnson; great grandchildren, Brady, Landon, Bryson, Gavin, Eli, Laura Kaye, Jacob, Grayson, Tanner, Mackenzie, Levi, and Karma; sisters, Ruby Lawson, Ruth Thacker, and Wilma Buchanan; brother Randal Jones; and by several nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
Visitation will be from 6-8 pm on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home, 607 Master Street, Corbin. Her funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, February 5th, at the Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home with Bro. John Fisher and Bro. Sam Moore officiating.
Burial will follow in the Hammons Cemetery in Flat Lick, Kentucky.
Her family wishes to extend their thanks and appreciation to the 3rd floor staff at the Christian Health Care Center for their loving care given to Audrey.
Messages may be written to the family at vankirkgrisellfuneralhome.com
Livestream for the services of Audrey Jean Shelton Jackson
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
607 Master Street, Corbin, KY 40701

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more