Eddie R. Congleton

Eddie Ray Congleton, 87, of Orlando, Kentucky, passed away February 24, 2026, at Rockcastle County Hospital.

He was the devoted husband of 47 years to Barbara Congleton and the steady foundation of our family. Eddie never met a stranger. He had a gift for talking to anyone and making them feel like an old friend, and his home was always open - often with a cold drink and a good story waiting. He always made you laugh and was a natural storyteller, the kind who could turn an ordinary moment into something unforgettable.

After retiring from Civil Service at AMC, a division of the U.S. Army, Eddie continued doing what he loved most: building. He was an architect and engineer at heart and a fountain of knowledge on all things related to building houses. Whether he was buying a home to completely remodel or building one from the ground up, he saw potential where others didn't. He took pride in his work, and if he started a project, he finished it - thoughtfully, carefully, and built to last.

He was an award-winning wood carver, a dedicated beekeeper, and a former member of the Masonic Lodge. He loved the open road and traveled across much of the United States - and according to family legend, broke the land speed record in almost all 50 states. He also never met an ice cream sandwich he didn't like.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Clayton and Mary Ruth McIntosh Congleton, and his brother, S. Jay Congleton.

He is survived by his wife Barbara; his children Gena (Owen) Cox, Kimberly (Cherie) Congleton, and Christopher (Joey) Congleton; his grandchildren Travis (Leah) Stanley and Kayla (Drew) Stanley; his great-granddaughter Raelynn Stanley; and three nieces.

He built homes, but more importantly, he built a family who will always carry his lessons - and his laughter - with us.

A Memorial Visitation will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 3–5 pm at Lakes Funeral Home and Cremation Service.