Joel Max Hubbard

Mr. Joel M. Hubbard, a Union resident and formerly of Grant County, KY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at the age of 93.

Mr. Hubbard was born on September 26, 1930 in Knox County, KY to the late Finley and Maggie Brock Hubbard.  Upon graduating high school, he joined and proudly served in the U.S. Army.  He served in the Korean war as a combat engineer.  Upon leaving the Army, he attended Morehead State College where he earned his bachelor's degree and played 7 man football and tennis.  During this time, he met the love of his life, Eleanor Joyce Rice, whom he married and survives.  With this union, was born two children, Guy R. (Regina) Hubbard of Antioch, TN, and Gail H. (Keith) Martinez of Everett, WA.  In addition to his wife and children, Joel is survived by one brother, Lowell Hubbard of Summerfield, FL, two sisters, Norma Cyzy of Dry Ridge, KY, Peggy King of Union, KY and two grandchildren, Jasmine H. (Paul) Young and Mason Joel Hubbard.  He was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters.

Joel was a retired health and physical education teacher in the Grant Co. Schools.  He was a former employee of Eagle Creek Country Club and Cherry Blossom Golf Course.  He was a member of the Dry Ridge Baptist Church where he was ordained a deacon.  Joel was an avid golfer, he loved to travel, and throughout his life, he resided in KY, VA, AZ, FL and TX.  He was a former coach of boys and girls softball, basketball and various other sports.  Many local residents aptly called him "Coach" even in recent years.  He never missed an opportunity to attend a local basketball game or sporting event.

Visitation will be held at the Eckler - McDaniel Funeral Home, 30 S. Main St., Dry Ridge, KY 41035 on Saturday, February 24, 2024 from 12-2pm.  Funeral services will follow at 2pm.  Rev. Milkweed Wotier will be officiating services.  Burial with military honors will take place at the KY Veteran's Cemetery, North in Williamstown, KY on Monday, Feb. 26, 2024 at 12 noon.  For those wanting to attend the burial, please meet at the Elliston - Stanley Funeral Home parking lot in Williamstown on Monday at 11:30am.  Procession will leave at 11:50am.  Memorial contributions may be sent to the Grant Co. Board of Education, c/o Athletic Fund, 820 Arnie Risen Blvd., Williamstown, KY 41097.