Obituary of Edsel Lacy Rawlings, Sr.

Edsel Lacy Rawlings Sr. of Lexington, KY peacefully passed on Wednesday, November 29th, surrounded by his family. Edsel is survived by his children, Mary Dean Browning and Molly Gray Baughman (Graham), and his grandchildren, Jacob Cameron Browning, Elizabeth Lacy Browning (Brian Warner), Carter Anne Baughman (Adam Horn), Chloe Gray Baughman, and Aubrey Nadine Rawlings (Carlos Martinez). Edsel was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy LathramRawlings, and their son, Edsel (“Eddie”) Lacy Rawlings, Jr.; his parents, Boone and Dora Rawlings; and his five older brothers, James, Delphas, Malcolm, Kenneth, and Travis.

Edsel was born January 9, 1932., Edsel grew up farming with his parents and five older brothers on his family’s farm. He continued to be involved in farming throughout his life and became a Master Cattleman. Born and raised in Bath County, Edsel was a graduate of Bethel High School, the University of Kentucky (a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity), and the University of Louisville, where he received his Juris Doctor. Upon graduation, Edsel served in the military, stationed at Eglin Air Force Base, FL. He spent over 25 years with Aetna Insurance Company, and the remainder of his working career in his private law practice. Edsel was a long-time member of First United Methodist Church.

Edsel is remembered as a warm, gentle, kind-hearted soul, who loved and was devoted to his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and his many friends. A strong man of faith, Edsel lived his life in service to others. He cherished the moments around his family and friends, whether for a front porch visit, a family gathering, time with friends, or of course, a UK tailgate.

A service will be held Friday, December 8th, at 1:00pm, for the immediate family, followed by a public gathering at 1:30pm, at First United Methodist Church, 200 West High Street, Lexington, KY 40507.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcomed to First United Methodist Church.