Mearl Thomas Risner

Mearl Thomas Risner, age 86, of Middlesboro, KY, passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the Middlesboro Appalachian Regional Hospital, Middlesboro, KY. He was born May 17, 1939, the son of the late Henry Clay Risner and Laura Denny Risner.

A passionate lover of music, Mearl dedicated much of his life to fostering a musical spirit in others. He served as the band director for Lone Jack and Bell County High Schools for numerous years, sharing his profound love of music with students and colleagues alike. In addition to teaching music, he played a significant role in education as a teacher and served as the Recreation Director at Pine Mountain State Resort Park, a position that brought him immense joy. Mearl was known not only for his talents but also for his sense of humor; he enjoyed laughter and was known to partake in practical jokes, endearing himself even more to those around him. A humble man, Mearl cherished his time spent with family and friends deeply.

Mearl was also the founder of the bluegrass band, Back Porch Grass, and cherished the years he spent singing nationwide alongside his wife and friends. Furthermore, he held the honor of being a Kentucky Colonel and he was a member of the East Jellico Baptist Church.  

In addition to his parents, Mearl was preceded in death by his spouse, Alpha Peace Risner; son, Thomas Clay Risner; siblings, Violet Risner Malanski, William Isaac Risner, Daniel Risner, Marie Risner and infant sister.

He is survived by his children, Micah (Amy) Risner, Maranda (Don) Carver, Lisa Harbin-Harris and husband Jeff and Lana Harbin-Dugger and husband Ernie; grandchildren, Thomas Risner, Bethany Risner, Amanda Shortridge, Devin Carver, Tyler Carver, Cheyenne Kindle and Kassee Kindle; and a host of great, grandchildren, as well as a great-great, grandchild. He is also survived by his brothers, David Risner, Phillip Risner and Samuel Risner; sisters, Ruth Risner Henn, Lilly Denny and Joyce Risner.

The family of Mearl Risner will receive friends on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Elder Jody Risner and Elder Stacy Risner presiding. Music will be provided by Thomasa Risner, Mitchell Cosby, Larry Cadle, Jimmy Barns, Adam Barnes, Travis Sutton and Mike Cosby.

At the conclusion of the funeral service, family and friends will travel in procession to Green Hills Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, where entombment services will be held. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Mearl's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him, as a remarkable musician, teacher, treasured friend and family member. He will be deeply missed.

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Mearl Risner are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.