Faith at the Center: Our Lady of the Assumption Chapel 3
Cover photo by Adam Paris - AP Imagery
Celebrating 75 Years of Catholic High
This coming May, we will graduate the 75th class of Owensboro Catholic High School. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as principal for the past two and a half years. In that time, I have been able to get a real sense of what makes our school so special and why so many hold it near and dear to their hearts.
At our core, it is our Roman Catholic faith that guides us in all we do, and it is through that faith we can ask God to watch over us and help us along our journey.
Our school has seen many upgrades over the past few years due to the generosity of those who support our mission. Among them are upgrades to science labs, a new Alumni Room, a baseball hitting facility, an expanded parking lot, a new multi-purpose building and a new chapel that will allow us to all gather in one space for Mass. I have no doubt our improvements are a result of many prayers and God watching over us.
OCS MISSION STATEMENT
Owensboro Catholic Schools share in the mission of the Church in communion with families and parishes to provide excellence in Catholic faith formation and academics which prepares students to become responsible individuals as well as members of their family, Church, and community.
Preparing Leaders, Achievers, and Believers
Christ is the Reason for This School
All the improvements listed above are game changing for Catholic High, but the one I believe will have the most lasting impact will be our new chapel.
When I began this role in the Summer of 2023, one of the items that was always on the discussion list was the chapel and how we would improve/remodel what we had. There had been discussion for some time before I arrived, and we had reached a point where we were just going to remodel the existing chapel space. When that news reached our school community, we had donors reach out and say they could make the new chapel happen. What a blessing that was to our school and students.
This space will allow us to dive deeper into sacramental life and let students become closer to God. No longer will we have to attend mass in the gym. The chapel will now allow us to have Mass in a more reverent space and have students more engaged as we celebrate the Eucharist. It also allows us to have a space ready to go anytime we need to use it for prayer, school wide rosary, or Mass for any reason. It really will be a game changer for OCHS.
In closing, I would like to say thank you. We would not exist as a school without the many donors who give to help us continue our mission. It truly is a community effort that is still going strong after 75 years.
George Powell OCHS Principal
Faith at the Center
OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHAPEL
What was once a small gymnasium has been beautifully transformed into a sacred, permanent space for worship. Every student now visits the chapel at least once per week, with many returning multiple times. The chapel provides a peaceful setting for prayer, reflection, and the celebration of the sacraments, placing faith at the heart of the school’s mission to form disciples of Christ.
Principal George Powell says, “We are very excited to have our chapel project completed. This space will allow us to dive deeper into sacramental life and let students become closer to God. The chapel will now allow us to have Mass in a more reverent space and have students more engaged as we celebrate the Eucharist.”
Thank you!
Without the generosity of alumni and friends of OCHS, the new chapel renovation would not have been possible.
The Frey family gave one of the first gifts toward the new chapel renovation. The family visited the chapel before the Dedication to admire the beautiful new space.
Pictured at left are members of the Frey family: Steve, Trisha, Vince, Joan, Stephanie and Barry.
Photo by Adam Paris - AP Imagery
Photo by Adam ParisAP Imagery
An Alumna’s Vision for the OCHS Chapel Designed with Purpose
When Owensboro Catholic High School set out to create a new chapel, the goal was clear: design a sacred space that would not only be beautiful, but formative in every detail. The result is the Chapel of Our Lady of the Assumption, a place where architecture, art, and faith converge with intention. Guiding that vision was a familiar face: a talented interior designer and proud OCS graduate, class of 2001, Laura Ruth Edge.
Drawing from centuries of Catholic liturgical tradition, the chapel’s design is anchored in Gothic arches and quatrefoils, elements that consistently emerged throughout the creative process. These forms are not merely decorative; they speak to the timeless nature of the Church and invite reverence the moment one enters the space.
The ceiling itself tells a story, as it symbolizes being under the mantle of the Blessed Mother. It also evokes the idea of resting within the womb of the Mother Church—receiving Christ, and then being sent forth into the world to reflect Him. The central aisle represents life’s journey toward eternity, leading intentionally to the altar, where Christ offers Himself fully in the Eucharist—His Body and Blood given for our salvation.
Flanking the altar are powerful visual reminders of family and faith: Our Lady of the Assumption stands to the left of the crucifix and tabernacle, while St. Joseph with the infant Jesus stands to the right. Together, they ground the space in both divine mystery and human devotion.
Perhaps the most striking catechetical element of the chapel is its stained glass. Each saint was intentionally selected to teach—not just to inspire admiration, but to model how a life fully lived in Christ looks in practice. Every figure holds a symbol tied to their story and contribution to the Church:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
St. Carlo Acutis with an iPhone, pointing to his devotion to the Eucharist and his innovative use of technology to share Eucharistic miracles
St. Maria Goretti with a lily, symbolizing purity
St. Francis and St. Clare, reflecting adoration and devotion to Christ
St. Padre Pio with the stigmata and St. Faustina with the Divine Mercy
St. Dominic with the rosary and St. Catherine of Siena representing the papacy
St. Thérèse of Lisieux with roses, St. Simon Stock with the scapular
St. Catherine Labouré with the Miraculous Medal and St. Benedict with the Benedictine Medal
At the back of the chapel, a print of Our Lady of Guadalupe hangs beside the Divine Mercy image, a meaningful reminder of the novenas that helped bring the chapel to life. From the first novena to raise funds, to the second for the contractor and blessing of the space, to a third amid unexpected delays, the journey ultimately led to the chapel’s dedication on Our Lady of Guadalupe’s feast day, December 12, 2025. A coincidence? Perhaps. Or perhaps a quiet affirmation of providence.
This chapel stands as a testament to what is possible when faith, craftsmanship, and community come together—not for recognition, but for His honor and glory. 1 2 5 6 7 3 4
For Laura Ruth, this project was more than a professional accomplishment—it was personal. As an OCS alumna, contributing to a space that will shape students’ prayer lives for generations is both humbling and deeply meaningful.
Pictured at left: Natalie Hayden ’88, OCS Director of Advancement and Laura Ruth Edge ’01, Owner and Principal Designer of L. Ruth Interior Design
Stained glass window designs by Emma Wolfe, Designer at L. Ruth Interior Design and photos by Adam Paris, AP Imagery.
Owensboro Catholic
High School Celebrates Dedication of Our Lady of the Assumption Chapel
Owensboro, KY — On December 12, 2025, Owensboro Catholic High School gathered for a dedication service led by Bishop William Medley to officially open the new Our Lady of the Assumption Chapel.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of its community, the school is proud to announce the completion of this transformative project. The second part of this project, the practice facility, is also nearing completion. While serving different purposes, both projects share a common goal—to support the growth and development of every student in mind, body, and spirit.
Mr. Higdon,
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for inviting me to be part of the dedication of the chapel today. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity, and I’m so blessed that you thought of me.
Being a part of it meant more than I can put into words. Today is something I’ll always remember, and I genuinely feel like I encountered Christ in a special and personal way. Thank you for creating a space where that could happen and for encouraging me in my faith.
I appreciate everything you do for us and for the way you pour into our class.
Thank you again, it truly meant a lot.
Sincerely,
Hadley Ward ’27
PROJECT UPDATE
Construction Progress
Construction of the new practice facility is nearing completion as part of Owensboro Catholic High School’s dual campus improvement project. Designed to support student programs, the facility represents the final phase of this coordinated effort and is expected to be ready for use in late February 2026.
Practice Facility Update
As the completion of Our Lady of the Assumption Chapel establishes a renewed spiritual center for Owensboro Catholic High School, the campus has simultaneously expanded to support the full scope of student life. The chapel’s construction required the removal of the former small gym, making the development of a new practice facility a necessary and complementary component of this dual project.
To support extracurricular programs displaced during the chapel renovation, the school is finishing construction of a steel prefabricated practice facility. The facility will primarily serve the band, along with athletics and student programs that enrich life
beyond the classroom, ensuring students continue to grow in leadership, discipline, and teamwork.
Planned together, these two projects reflect a comprehensive vision for the future of Owensboro Catholic High School. Combined, they represent a $2.7 million investment in the formation of well-rounded students—providing spaces that nurture both spiritual life and co-curricular excellence.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Owensboro Catholic High School thanks its community for helping build a strong foundation for the next generation. These spaces will serve students for decades to come.
Donor Mass
THURSDAY, MARCH 26 l 6 PM
Owensboro Catholic Schools will host a Donor Mass to honor and pray in thanksgiving for those whose generosity made the new chapel possible. This special Mass will be offered as a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the many individuals and families who supported the chapel project and helped bring this sacred space to life.
OC CONNECT 2025
2025 Goal $210,000
If you spend any time at all on social media, it’s impossible to avoid the constant bombardment of people competing for your dollars. Every scroll brings a new promise: a better life, a miracle product, a can’t-miss program, if you just buy now. Many of us have been tempted by these snake-oil assurances, and even I have learned the hard way that not every promise delivers lasting value.
As we celebrate 75 years of our school, we recognize you may be feeling a bit of donor fatigue; after all, our mission and our needs remain constant. That is precisely why we want to pause and offer heartfelt gratitude to those who continue to give faithfully year after year. To our consistent donors, thank you. Your generosity is more than a gift; it is a vote of confidence in our school, our teachers, and our staff, and in the important work we do every single day. Because of you, our mission doesn’t just continue, it thrives.
Natalie Hayden ’88 Director of Advancement
270-686-8896
natalie.hayden@ owensborocatholic.org
Owensboro Catholic is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization. Your generous monetary gift is tax deductible.
Your contributions, especially unrestricted dollars, are the most important gifts you can give. They allow us to respond to real, immediate needs, support our educators, and guarantee we can meet students where they are. These gifts don’t come with flashy promises, but they deliver something far more meaningful: stability, flexibility, and impact.
To those who have supported our school in the past but may have fallen away, we warmly invite you to consider making us a priority once again. Your support mattered then, and it matters now more than ever. And to those who have never given, now is the time. We would love to welcome you into our community of supporters.
Our annual appeal runs from January through December, but why wait? Please consider making your gift today, and encourage family members and classmates to do the same. Together, we can guarantee that the school we cherish today will still be here, strong and thriving, 75 years from now. And I pray we all see the lasting value in that!
Let’s hear it for our friends and the Class of 1969 - the top giving class of 2025!
We wish to extend gratitude to our Friends of OCHS. Wow! You are amazing! 2025 Total $248,540.11
OC CONNECT 2025
OC Connect 2025 Donors
At this time of year, we like to share the final list of all 2025 OC Connect annual appeal donors. Some classes have been grouped if only a few gifts were listed. Thank you, alumni and friends, for believing and supporting the mission of OCHS. You make a tremendous difference, and we could not do this important work without each of you. These unrestricted gifts given to the OC Connect annual appeal are used daily where the obligations and opportunities are greatest.
Please keep in mind this list is put together by humans and we try very hard to include everyone who gave in 2025 correctly. If we have made an error, please accept our sincere apologies and kindly call 270-686-8896 to let us know.
1948 $910.00
Archie Clark
Mary R. Mudd
In Memory of Rita Beth Thomas
1950-51 $650.00
Joseph N. Coomes
Joan Marrett Englert
Marjorie Reisz Reid
Francis Thomson
1952 $335.00
Anonymous Donor
Joann Castlen Galloway
Herman and Mary Handy
Jane Coomes Rowland
Bob Slack
Margaret Hayden Velotta
1953 $1,300.00
John and Nan Roby Filburn
In Memory of George Frey
Bob and Mildred Gilles
Bob and Mildred Gilles - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Susie Mischel Iglehart
Ann Roby Oberg
Ignatius Payne
John and Margie Wathen
1954
$1,010.00
Charles and Michiko Clark
In Memory of Charles Collins
Joan Riddle Collins - In Memory of Charles Collins
Joseph Cooper Hayden
Pat O’Malley McCarthy
Patsy Downs Whitmer
Ralph Williams - In Memory of Joann Johnson Williams
1955 $11,755.00
Bennie and Claudine Blandford
Donna Boldrick - In Memory of Thomas Boldrick
Mary Bryan Medley Booth
Mary Bryan Medley Booth - In Memory of Corky Norcia
James and Lenna Elder
Vince and Joan Frey
Bob and Mildred Gilles
Sue Clark Howell
George A. and Barbara A. Powers
In Memory of Judy Rector
1956
Don Blandford
$7,961.84
Mary Ann Head Clouse
Joan Riddle Collins
Douglas and Cheryl Hayden
Nancy D. Hendricks
In Memory of Marty McNulty
John and Mary Medley
Joann Schartung Millay
Jackie Kamuf Murray
Barbara Fischer Stallings
Cloa Johnson Thompson
1957 $1,870.00
In Memory of Col. Michael Boldrick and teammates
Earl and Paula Fischer
Gertie Sims Frey
Margaret Grant Frey
Margaret Grant Frey - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Billy Ray and Joanna Vowels Hatcher
Carl and Marty Hayden
Corky and Elaine Norcia
Charles and Lois Payne
Bill Thomas
Judith Whelan - In Memory of Bill Whelan, Jr.
1958 $5,718.28
In Memory of Lena Hartz Aull
Harry and Peggy Bellew
Donnie Bittel
Thomas and Janie Blair - In Memory of John T. Blair
Alice Boarman
Annette Bryant
Martha Fitts Clark
Bob and Marian McPherson Davis
Donald and Ruth Dickens
Mickey and Mary Hagan
Patricia Bean Hamilton
Carl and Marty Hayden
Henry and Bernadette Hayden
Otis and Judith Hicks
Bob and Francil Higdon
Shirley Barker Hughes
Natalie Vance Jones
James and Beverly Knott
Polly Warren McCubbins
In Memory of Mary Hilda McFarland
Ronald and Connie Byrne McKay
Marie Gatton Priar
Joe and Cissy Dieterle Raibert
Jim and Patty Settles
Gene and Margaret Jane Strehl
Richard and Dorothy McKay Thomas
1959 $6,595.00
Anonymous Donor
Joyce Roberts Bickett
Bill and Suzanne Blandford
Paul Busse
Rita Devins Cecil
Joe and Mary Jane Russell Clark
John and Theresa Clark
John and Liz Froehlich
Kathleen Henning
Geri Martinez
Rebecca Millay
Charles and Lois Payne
Martha Hartz Payne
Phillip and Marie Saunders
Mary Helen and Ron Strehl
Virginia Zoglman
1960 $440.00
Larry and Susan Cashen
Guy and Linda Simmons Connor
Charles J. Krampe
In Memory of Dan McNulty
Steve and Linda Meyer
Mary Ann Pardon Mitchell
1961 $4,687.50
Anonymous Donor
Ralph and Judy O’Bryan Basham
John and Mary Bouvier
Don and Janet Bowlds
Patricia Roberts Cecil
John and Theresa Clark
Bob and Marian McPherson Davis
Mike and Linda Drury
Tommy Dunbar
Paula Kerrick Fisher
Hadley Harrington
Rich and Kathy Hayden
Gerald and Judy Higdon
Linda Kamuf
Linda Kamuf - In Memory of Corky
Norcia
Larry and Gene Lyon
Bob and Linda Marrett
Margaret Beaven Moorman
Michael R. Morton
Allen and Sandra Grant Westerfield
Doug Wood
1962 $5,050.00
Mick and Janet Baseheart
Harry and Peggy Bellew
Joe and Beverly Carrico
Larry and Dottie Elder
John H. Hartz, Jr.
Dennis and Sharon Elliott Hayden
Gene Keelin
Libby Hayden Mattingly
Tom and Cheryl Schmitt
Carol Thornberry Sims - In Memory of Timothy Sims
Allen and Sandra Grant Westerfield
1963 $2,205.00
Gene and Carolyn Abel
Mick and Janet Baseheart
Sharon Bittel Coomes - In Memory of Fred Coomes
Jim Goetz
Ronnie and Mereda Hicks
Joe and Paula Knott
Larry and Becky Krampe
Mary Ann (Tom) Kurz
Martha Gilles Payne
Judy Frey Peach
Donald and Carol Ralph
Vicki Roberts
Joseph E and Barbara Russell
Tom and Cheryl Schmitt
Rita Ward
Mary Alice Wethington
1964 $2,877.64
Pat Black
Carolyn S. Denton
Anita Hayden Garrison
Tom and Mary Beth Goetz
Jim and Janet Hagan
Mike and Michelle Hagan
Larry and Brenda Hayden
Dennis and Sharon Elliott Hayden
Charles and Mary Ann Medley
Greg and Patti Biscopink Merimee
James and Sharon Bell Murphy
Steve Oelze
William C. Schrecker
Mary R. Shepler
1965 $5,587.50
David and Nancy Akers
Anonymous Donor
Bill and Sally Buford
Tony and Carolyn Clark
Tony Clayton
Donald Coomes
Judy Denton
Judy Denton - In Honor of Sharon Knox Tucker
Doug Ebelhar
Phyllis and Gary Edwards
Mike and Michelle Hagan
Jerry and Virginia Harper
Don Hayden
Leon and Rachel McNulty Higdon
Wayne Howard
Maureen Hardesty Jackson
Mark and Joanne Johnson
David Keller
Mitchell and Martha Long
Anna Ruth McNulty Lyon
Anna Ruth Lyon - In Memory of Danny Lyon
Bob and Linda Marrett
Bobby L. Timbrook
Jim and Linda Warren
Joyce Bittel Yeiser
1966
Julia Moseley Arnold
$2,658.27
Benn and Stanette Blair
Pat Wells Daugherty
Eddie and Peggy Ebelhar Grant
Ed and Ellen Higdon
Larry and Becky Marrett Horsman
Gary and Susie Lauzon Imel
Bill and Sheila Kyle
Mitchell and Martha Long
Greg and Patti Biscopink Merimee
Steve Mitchell
Ron and JoAnn Mueller
Tom and Carol Payne
Michael Wayne Roberts
Todd and Pat Stelmach
Glen and Sheila Isbill Stewart
Ernie and Shirley Taliaferro
Ernie and Shirley Taliaferro - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Nancy Tong Wilson
Joyce Gilles Young
1967
Larry and Sheila Abel
$2,295.00
Leslie and Agnes Bickwermert Allen
Linda Hagan Avery
Bill and Carrie Barr
Don and Vicki Cecil
Sharon Bittel Coomes
Tom and Janet Ebelhar
Gary and Beverly Pedley Estes
Denny and Sarona Murphy Grant
Thomas and Millie Ward Hines
Rose Hodgkins
Shirley Ebelhar Kent
Larry and Becky Krampe
Paul and Benita Martin
Paul and Benita Martin - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Mike and Bennie McNulty
Philip and Brenda Drury Phelps
Tom Shively
Michael and Helen McNulty Shull
Larry and Jean Sims
Ernie and Shirley Taliaferro
Ernie and Shirley Taliaferro - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Steve Thornberry
OC CONNECT 2025
1968 $6,240.56
Carl and Diane Badstibner
Joseph and Brenda Goetz Bean
Eddie and Judy Blandford
Dennis E. Boarman “1968”
Russell Brooks
In Memory of Brenda Clark
Jeff and Marcia Carpenter
Joe Carr
Dennis and Monica Connelly
Janice Conrey
Don and Jeri Cundiff
Steve and Linda Dixon
Tom and Janet Ebelhar
Jim and Debbie Edelen
Rose Kamuf Hayden
Mark and Rita Heinz
Barbara Schartung Hodskins
Don and Sandy Kelley
Jim and Kathy Likens
Jerry and Brenda Tooley Maren
Theresa O’Bryan Mercker
Mike and Karen Mischel - In Honor of Evan Grant and Kathryn Grant
Hank O’Bryan
Ann Hufnagel Payne
Tom and Carol Payne
Mary Helen McCarty Raley
Rachel Grant Roth
Denise Gill Sanders
Larry and Jean Sims
Bill and Marilyn Strong
Gary and Donna Thompson
Joyce Castlen Warren
Paul Allen Warren
James Wathen
1969 $18,380.69
Bob and Mary Ann Alvey
Greg and Deborah Arnold
Steve and Gloria Haynes Baker
Greg and Marion Bates
Joe and Jeanne Bouvier
Richard and Cathy Campbell
Don and Charlotte Cecil
Karen Hardesty Cole
Jim Tony Fulkerson
Jim Tony Fulkerson - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Carl and Molly Greenwell
Marsha Hardesty
Sheila Howard
Roger and Marian Jones
John and Martha McNulty Mancinelli
Michael and Elaine Mills
Richard and Donna Murphy
Sam and Cindy Hall Murphy
David and Janice Neumann
Dr. William and Sherry O’Bryan
Pat and Marilyn Pace
Lynn Payne
Terry and Mary Lee Posey Roark
JR and Donna Stogsdill Roby
Beth Rone Royster
Randahl and Mollie Stephen
Genny Jones Stevens
Gene and Margaret Jane Strehl
Anne Lauzon Swinford
In Memory of Mike Taliaferro
In Memory of Angie Goetz Thompson
Shelby and MaryAnn Thompson
Jimmy and Vanessa Tong
Kelly and Becky Ward
Gayle Welsh
1970 $3,039.34
Carl and Diane Badstibner
Ronald and Kay Biscopink
Thomas A. and Janie Blair
Richard and Cathy Campbell
Bruce Early
Jeff and Margie Walker Ebelhar
Wayne and Laura Edge
Mike and Cindy Fiorella
Joe Hagan
Joe Hagan - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Leon and Rachel McNulty Higdon
Wally and Julie Johnson
Dean and Tina Jones
Jim and Kathy Likens
Mike and Jan Martin
Gene and Mary J. Meyer
Marty and Becky Mitchell
David and Vickie Osborne
Phil and Natalie Fogle Roberts
Vickie Snyder
Charles and Denise Thompson
Jeanie Weedman
1971 $6,154.97
Thomas and Patricia Anderson
Donnie and Connie Clark
Dr. M. Wayne and Annetta Ebelhar
Ron and Carol Ebelhar
Parvin & Kay Ellis
Mike and Cindy Fiorella
Bob and Debbie Fulkerson
Steve and Peggy Gardner
Donna Goetz
Gary and Nelda Grant
Diane Murphy Head
Martha Kurre House
Tony and Christa Hundley
John and Carolyn McCarty
Gregory and Cynthia McCarty
Mark and Karen McCarty
Joy Ling Miller
Jimmy Mills
Patrick Mulligan
Drs. William and Marie Murphy
Larry and Rosemary Sims O’Brien
Ken and Mary Jo Plas
Mary Bickwermert Salmon
Mike and Janice Scherm
Mark and Martha Sims
Stephen L and Nancy M Snyder
George and Joanie Wathen
Betty Whitehouse
1972 $5,152.97
Judy Carrico Bielefeld - In Memory of
Charles and Mary Virginia Carrico
Ray and Dot Biscopink
Karen Cavin-Brown
Charles and Barbara Barr Daugherty
Jeff and Margie Walker Ebelhar
Mark A. Ebelhar
Vince and Teresa Sims Edwards
Rosemary Young Foster
Denny and Sarona Murphy Grant
Eddie and Peggy Ebelhar Grant
Roger and Marian Jones
Mark and Mickey Keller
David and Debbie McBride
James A. Mischel
Paul and Judith Clark Nevergoll
Bill and Vicki Payne
John and Mary Pickrell
Andrew Reynolds, Jr.
Tony Reynolds
James and Shelly Rode
Gary and Donna Thompson
Dennis and Pam Weafer
Barbara Head Weikel
Jay and Andrea Wethington
1973 $8,043.05
Greg Blandford
John and Patty Bolger
Marty and Janice Bumm
Steve and Judy Carrico
Rick and Isa Ebelhar
Robbie and Lana Englert
Bill Franey
Gary L. Gant
Chris and Kathy Murphy Hardesty
Bruce and Michele Hill
Dr. John and Barbie Howard
David and Margie McNulty Jackson
Wally and Julie Johnson
Bill and Theresa Jones
Stephen and Lucy Kaelin
Don and Mary Lou Rogers Kincaid
Patty Osborne Marr
Diane Black Miller
Marty and Becky Mitchell
Steve and Cindy Murphy
Greg Riney
Harold and Suzanne Roberts
Mark and Lisa Schmidt - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Rebecca Swoyer
John G. Vessels
Dennis and Pam Weafer
Wayne and Susan Zoglmann
1974 $1,626.48
Scott and Martha Beyke
Paula Pedley Bittel
Marty and Janice Bumm
Mark Ebelhar - In Memory of Grace Medley Ebelhar
Keith and Cathy Franey
Janice Danhauer Greene
Frank and Karen Hein
David and Karen Hayden Jarboe
Mary Helen Castlen Johnson
Charles I. Knott
Jeff and Janice McCarthy
David and Cheryl Mills
David A. Murphy
Sam and Cindy Hall Murphy
Patty Mills Reynolds
Annette Thomas Roberts
Connie and Janie Roberts
Steve and Lisa Sims
Vicky Kay Tilley
Stephen and Nancy Velotta
Jerry and Alicia Simon Wells
1975 $3,556.69
David and Ann Hayden Blanford
Alan and Karen Cecil
Joe and Vicky Connor
Sr. Mary Jo Curtsinger, CSJ
David and Karen Danhauer
Anne (Taylor) Falk and Mike Falk
Karen and John Gildehaus
Tom and May May Gipe
Tom Hamilton
Charlotte Kaelin Hedges
John Anthony Hein
Phil and Diane Higdon
Stephen and Diane Howard Hoffman
Martha J. Luckett
Laura Howard Mattingly
Gregory and Cynthia McCarty
Gary Newcom - In Honor of Pat
Mountain and Ed Jackson
Gary and Teresita Newcom
Steve and Sherry Orth
Bill and Dottie Riney
Charles and Jill Rivette
Mary Gasser Sullivan
Elaine Thomas
Mary Thomas
Fr. David Wathen
George and Joanie Wathen
Dennis and Gayla Whitehouse
1976 $18,073.54
Bert Barker
Bert Barker - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Joey Barr
Jake and Diane Barr
Greg Barton
Steve and Bonnie Bittel
Donnie and Mary Ann Blanford
Denny and Jill Campbell
Thomas and Terri Carrico
Barbara Cecil
Dennis Cecil
John and Helen Cornell
Terry and Sabrina Ebelhar
Terry Edge
George Elder
Barbara Fischer
Jimmy and Marty Gaw
J. Carlin Gregory
Scott Hardy and Tina Hardesty Hardy
Rich and Susie Harris
Pamela B Hartz
George and Belinda Hayden
Tom and Katherine Hayden
Phil and Diane Higdon
Stephen and Diane Howard Hoffman
Celeste Medley Hood
Joseph E. Isbill, Jr.
Roger and Susan Kamuf
Chris and Paula Kavolus
Ron and Diane Elder Kolb
John Lattin
Edwin and Lily Scherm McDivitt
Eddy McFarland
David and Renee Clark McNulty
Joe and Vicki Mills - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Jim and Laura O’Bryan
Carol Wirth Parker
Perry Payne
Tim and Becky Mayfield Pedley
Chris and Janet Reid
David and Julie Payne Renshaw
OC CONNECT 2025
Neil and Vicky Rudy
Mike and Janice Sweeney
Chuck Thompson
John B. Walker
Donna Walsh
Doug and Tammy Wathen
Donna Brown West and Tim West
Doug and Laurie Hayden Wood
1977 $1,889.97
Theresa Ashworth
Charles Berry
Denny and Jill Campbell
Sandra Ebelhar Clark
Tony and Julie Ebelhar
Rick and Kimberly Coomes Hayden
Fr. Tony Jones
Paul and Colette Osborne
George and Pam Frey Randolph
Julie Riney Richardson
Steve and Lisa Sims
Vickie Hayden Sipes
Ricky and Lizann Thompson
Michael Ward
Sharon Thomas Wathen
Ricky and Mary Lou Wooldridge
1978 $6,771.12
Denny and Diane Fulkerson
Tom and Mary Kay Gardner
James and Sandy Guinn
Phil and Kim Haire
Rick and Kimberly Coomes Hayden
John and Susan Jones
Robert and Pam May
Lisa Pedley Millay
David and Diane Mountain
Jim Orton
George and Pam Frey Randolph
Dan and Kim Riney
Steve Riney
Warren and Ellen Roberts
Janie Settles
Dwayne and Kathleen White
Tony and Andrea Cecil White
Kathy Aud Wilson
1979 $3,817.10
Anonymous Donor
Kenneth and Wendi Bickett
Tom and Diane Bowers
Steve and Trisha Frey
Monica Hayden
Randall Knott
Kevin and Mary Szemethy Lasley
Bob and Connie McCarthy
Robbie and Joyce McCarty
Scott and Leanne Ward Murphy
Darrell and Janet Clark Nix
Gordon and Debbie Powers
Dan and Kim Riney
Jeff and Shelly Riney
Randy and Robin Roby
James A. Smith, Jr.
Kenneth B Tinsley
Jimmy and Vanessa Tong
1980 $5,059.40
Gary and Dolores Aull
William and Lynne Payne Bell
Martin Bickwermert
Gary and Mary Kay King Calery
Allen and Ann Corley
Bernie and Lisa Thompson Dotsey
Steve and Trisha Frey
Curtis and Cindy Thomas Hamilton
Russ and Vicki Hayden
Stephen Hein
Todd and Kathleen Connor Johnson
Stephen and Lucy Kaelin
Chris and Susie Thompson Mattingly
William and Diana McNulty
Karen Pence
Ron and Kelly Stallings
Louis Szemethy
Dan Thomas
Chris and Mary Todd
Mai Vu-Ha
Billy and Sara Smith Wilson
John and Kathy Wright
1981 $1,157.50
J Michael Boarman
Dennis and Peggy Corley
Tim and Cathy Goetz
Curtis and Cindy Thomas Hamilton
Russ and Vicki Hayden
Todd and Kathleen Connor Johnson
Ben and Becky Bickett Marks
Scott and Leanne Ward Murphy
Jan Riney Reiley
Phil and Natalie Fogle Roberts
Chris and Karen Thompson
Keith Tipmore and Sharon Frey Tipmore
1982 $5,911.75
Ricky and Teresa Aull
Joe and Tammy Calhoun
Allen and Ann Corley
Jerry and Amy Glahn
Mary Gresham
Mike and Susan Hagan
Richard and Kim Higdon
John and Rhnea Hill
Bill and Debbie James
Craig and Stacy Coomes Jones
Charles T. Merimee
Stephanie Orton
Oz and Connie Osborne
David Powers
Ron and Cathy Frey-Ramsey
Ron and Cathy Frey-Ramsey - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Alan and Monica Riney
John and Pam Steele
Joseph G. Szemethy
Tommy and Cathy Vessels
Richard and Lori Whitehouse
1983 $3,595.40
Ricky and Teresa Aull
John and Yvonne Barker
Greg and Betsy Bickett
Vicent and Reenee Fogle
Ricky and Carla Hagan
Jeff and Stephanie Higdon
Texas Gas Matching Gift - Jeff and Stephanie Higdon
Richard and Kim Higdon
Michael and Tollie Medley
Richard Mountain
Greg and Kim Mullican
Ron and Kelly Stallings
Robin Swift - In Memory of Mark Swift
Tommy and Cathy Vessels
1984 $1,766.06
Don and Jenny Bittel
Alex and Virginia McCarty Chaney
Ruth Drury Charles
Mary Celeste Clary
David and Lisa Coomes Englert
David and Lisa Coomes EnglertSouthern Star Matching Gift
Barry and Stephanie Frey
Chris and Chistina Graney
Leo and Sonya Howard
Jamie and Angie Klump
David Lewis
Bob and Connie McCarthy
Dr. Richard and Jenny Medley
Marianna Schadler Romero
1985 $3,290.49
Gary and Beth Moser Abshier
Anonymous Donor
Brian Overstreet and Karen Byrne Booth
Carol Collins-Carriveau
Joelle Dill
Denny and Diane Fulkerson
Michael and Amy Gartner
Joe and Carol Gorley
Don and Susan Coomes Howard
Shawn and Beth Blandford Hunter
Shawn and Beth Blandford HunterEli Lilly and Co. Matching Gift
Robert Mayfield
Edmund and Brenda Guinn Pozniak
Gene and Beckie Schadler
Tony and Kim Thomas
1986 $2,537.89
Leonard and Joni Barnett
Leonard and Joni Howard Barnett
Vicent and Reenee Fogle
Jeff and Julie Garvin
Tim and Cathy Goetz
Ricky and Carla Hagan
Ronald and Lisa Paul
Cathy Pedley
Rodney and Priscilla Schwartz
Diana Smith Selby
Bob and Kimberly Szemethy
Tony and Kim Thomas
Geary and Rhonda Thompson
Louis Wilkerson
Blaise Wilson
1987 $2,652.91
Joe and Beth Bissmeyer
Ronnie and Melanie Brooks
In Memory of Ricky Brooks
Shannon Coomes
Chris Kamuf
Kevin and Debbie Kurz
Barry Mayfield
Kathleen Overton
Phil and Jennifer Hayden Riney
Jennifer Rumage
1988 $4,837.14
Joe Paul and Kim Howard Bickett
Ronnie and Melanie Brooks
Cheryl and Bart Bruner
John Buford
Eric and Jessica Bumm
Class of 1988 - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Barry and Stephanie Frey
Richard and Natalie Hayden
Scott and Margi Higdon
Tim and Lara Hill
John and Michelle Lyon
Dr. Sean and Bree Simone
Barry and Laurna Strehl
1989 $275.00
Christopher Allen
Jarrod and Leslie Abel Bradshaw
Keith and Rachel Evans
Paul and Dana Froehlich Hardesty
John and Michelle Lyon
Phil and Jennifer Hayden Riney
1990 $417.47
Rob and Elizabeth Burnett - In Memory of Coach Bruce and Janie Embry
Matt and Ashley Frey
Gary and Holly Payne Houchens
John and Julie Moore
Barry and Laurna Strehl
1991 $915.77
Colby and Heather Blair
Richard and Jennifer Hayden
Chip and Amy Pride
Madison and Amy Silvert
1992 $828.30
Gary and Christy Buford Browning
Matthew D. and Brandi N. Hayden
Neil and Shannon Sims O’Bryan
Darren & Annie Riney
Michael and Christa Roberts
Cynthia Schadler
1993 $893.56
Matt and Ashley Frey
Matthew D. and Brandi N. Hayden
Chris and Mara Mischel
Neil and Shannon Sims O’Bryan
Darren & Annie Riney
Matthew and Rachel Taliaferro
1994 $228.05
Clint Burcham
Jeremy Eades
Matt and Christy Hayden
Jerry and Remonda Reed Maynard
Troy and Kara Taliaferro Schwartz
1995 $1,319.82
Dr. John and Julie Hammen
Nick and Shauna Horsman
Thomas and Beth Hutchison
OC CONNECT 2025
Jeremy and Karissa Riter
Sean and Amanda Terrell
Michael and Shanon Thomson
Texas Gas Matching Gift - Michael and Shanon Thomson
Scott and Melanie Wallace
1996 $1,929.81
Robynn J. Clark
Tommy and Christie Hayden
Nick and Shauna Horsman 1997 $3,615.00
Thomas and Beth Hutchison
Camron and Nikki Knott
Ty and Lindsey Roach Petway
Ryan and Katie Taliaferro 1998 $1,229.97
Shaun and Shelly Blandford
BJ and Haley Buford
Steve and Tammy Gardner
Brandon and Jenny Glenn
Andy and Laura Hennesey
Nathan and Erica Millay
George and Amanda Hayden Powell
1999 $1,160.00
Shaun and Shelly Blandford
Jesse and Leigh Buford
Allison Taliaferro Cecil
Scott Grant
Jacob and Bridget Reid
2000 $911.96
Adam and Daile Hancock
Stacey Coomes Kosters
Nathan and Beth McNulty
Anonymous Donor
Jason and Lacey Harville
David and Lisa Higdon
Katherine Higdon
JR and Mary Kenny
Jonathan and Lauren Patton
Travis and Laurie Castlen
Justin and Natalie Clatterbuck
Dr. Aaron and Melissa Flaherty
Mike and Tressie Lilly Mallory
Kyle McGraw
Jerrod Moore
2004 $564.04
Derek and Rachel Blair - In honor of Chelsey Renee Mudd
Dr. Aaron and Melissa Flaherty
Adam and Krystal Smith Flowers
Michael and Christie Wall Hagan
Lee and Jessica Martin
Stephanie Morris
Corey and Brittney Owens Ballard
Dirk Dooper
Rocky and Madison Ebelhar
Ryan Higdon
Jay and Anna Ivey
Bryan and Laura Klump
Jordan and Amanda Taliaferro
Matt and Michelle Valego
Elizabeth Wathen
Tyler and Sarah Frey
$6,953.29
Ben and Brittany Thompson
Tim and Cessilee Blair
Kevin Brown
Brittni Owen Forte
Matt and Ashley Barna Garrett
Katelyn Kamuf Gipe
Brian Howard
Trevor and Natalie Lopez
Wesley and Anna Taul
Drs. Meagan Aull and Joshua Whitt
2009-10, 2012 $409.10
Daniel and Julie Best
Josh Goetz
Nick Krampe
Trevor and Natalie Lopez
In Memory of Katlyn Taliaferro
Megan Thompson
Kristen Wathen
2013-14, 2016 $240.88
Daniel and Julie Best
Jonathan Garner
Colton and Annabel Moore Hartig
Lukas and Rebecca Pate
Luke Riney
Megan Thompson - In Memory of William Hayden Thompson, Jr.
Abbie Tignor
Chris and Hannah Aull Tyson
2017 $644.72
Harper Dotsey
Clay Glenn
Keiontre Green
Charles Hall
Michael Hampel
Weston and Payton Hite Jacob
Wes James
Will and Lauren James
Jacob Johnson
Max Maloney
Will Marshall
Megan McCarthy
Judd McElroy
Regan Neal
Lauren Nonweiler
Micah Norcia
Peyton Ross
Rose Schreiner - In Memory of Fr.
Ed Bradley
Nate and Katelin Taylor
Jacob Thompson
Hannah Wetzel
Brooklynn Williams
2019 and 2021 $452.21
Trendon Byrne
Nolan and Clare Clark
Owen Hayden
Will and Lauren James
Genarose Jones
Mackenzie Keelin
Jace Kessler
Griffin Rudy
Jake and Sarah Englert Schienther
Noah Todd
FRIENDS $42,894.77
Joann Anderson
Kurt Anderson - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Anonymous Donor
Mark and Monica Augustine
In Memory of Ken Thomas
In Memory of Ann O’Bryan Bresler
DCN Bill and Joy Bach
Ralph and Marcia Baker
Pamelia Storms Barrett
Charlene Baumgarten
Jeanne Beaudette
Julie Wood Bell
June Bell
Ralph and Rose Bemboom
Rick and Lisa Bivens
Sr. Vivian Bowles OSU
Penelope Brauer
Carol Braun
Howard and Louise Brown
Tom Calhoun
Don and Judy Calitri
Ronald and Phyllis Calvert
Helena G. Carrico
Ed and Gloria Cecil
Rose Cecil
Phil and Betty Cissell
Walter and Gail Clancy
John and Patsy Clayton
Noel and Brenda Clayton
Gerald and Judy Coomes
Russell Corley
Jerry and Erica Crabtree
Kathryn Crowe
Scott and Ginny Danner
Joe and Tracy Danzer
Larry Dominick
Siebrand and Wanda Dooper
Sue Draper - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Frances Drury
Jimmy Duncan
Mary Ann Cecil Ebelhar
The EMK Family Charitable Fund
Envision Contractors LLC
Dennis and Barbara Evans
Clara Evrard - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Allan Eyre
Todd and Taunya Eyre
Linda Fentress
Billy and Patricia Folk
Neel and Sarah Ford
Teresa and Scott Gardner
Clara Gilles
Chris and Jenny Glaser
Sue Gough
Michael and Karen Gross
Gulfstream Commercial Services
Frank and Connie Hagan
Joe and Marie Hancock - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Marge Harper
Ruth Ann Harris
James Hay - In Memory of Lula Gasser Hay
Eddie and Mary Haynes
Dr. Jacob and Jaclyn Hodskins
Jeff and Lynn Hofer - In Memory of Corky Norcia
The Michael E. Horn Family Foundation Inc.
Michael E. Horn
Jeff and Pat Huebel
Independence Foundation, Inc.
Gary and Karen Jarboe
Jones Insurance Agency
Mike and Debbie Jones
Gary and Linda Kabalen
Gary and Linda Kabalen - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Kevin and Margaret Kenny
David and Brandi Kessler
Donna Kessler
Robert and Linda Knight - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Margaret Knott
Karl and Carol Koster
Kurtz Auction and Realty Co.
OC CONNECT 2025
Bill Kurtz
John and Chrissy Kurtz
John and Chrissy Kurtz - In Honor of
Fr. Jerry Riney 50th Anniversary
William B. Kurtz
George and WaNell Lanham
Nu Neh and Mo Leing
Tom and LaNell Lilly
Chris and Jane Lovekamp
Alexander and Alina Malave
Paul J. Martin Enterprise, LLC
Jerry and Ginger McBride
Doris McCrary
Jim McCrary
David L. McJoynt
Charles T. Merimee
Mick-Murph Construction
Charlotte Mischel
Robert E. and April M. Mitchell
Don Moore Automotive
Don Moore Automotive - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Millie Mullican
INTRODUCING AN ALL-NEW GIVING SOCIETY
Kenneth Murphy - In Memory of
Dianne A. Murphy
Joe and Maggie O’Bryan
Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Owensboro Grain - A Cargill Company
Pat and Suzanne Padgett
Jane Pfeifer
Devon Pinkston
Joe and Felicity Polio
Bob and Lynne Pope
Dorothy Powers
Robert and Vicki Johnson-Poynter
Murray and Sara Pride
Rev. J. Patrick Reynolds
Byron and Lucy Rhoades
Bruce Riney
Don and Riney & Family
Gary and Bonnie Roberts
Ronald and Lanita Robertson
Frank Scalcucci
Dr. and Mrs. John C. Schertzinger
Robin and Teresa Scott - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Fr. Anthony Shonis
Brad and Lisa Stanley
Harold and Rhonda Staples
Mark and Kathy Sterling
Don and Shirley Story
James and Sue Tacker - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Fr. John Thomas
Alan and Ruth Ann Thompson
Mike and Karen Thompson
Frances Tichenor
Richard and Jeanette Turner
Minda Ward
Teresa Ward - In Honor of Peyton Reid and Charlie Reid
Dorothy Devins Wathen
Otis Webb
Justin and Madison Wedding
Elaine Wesnofske - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Carl and Mary Jo Westerfield
Western KY Regional Blood Center Inc
John and Dee Dee Wethington - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Tyrrell Whitaker
Tom Whitsett
Ken and Sarah Wilhelm
William Wright - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Gloria Zinobile - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Aces Society
Donors who contribute an unrestricted gift to the OC Connect annual appeal of $1,000 or more annually become members of this special giving society. By joining the Aces Society, you are taking a leadership role in helping us keep tuition low for each family and continuing our tradition of accessibility and excellence. Thank you!
Gary and Beth Abshier
Mark and Monica Augustine
Drs. Meagan Aull and Joshua Whitt
Greg Barton
Charlene Baumgarten
Joe and Beth Bissmeyer
Don Blandford
David and Ann Hayden Blanford
John and Patty Bolger
Cheryl and Bart Bruner
Steve and Judy Carrico
Martha Fitts Clark
Robynn J. Clark
Tony and Carolyn Clark
The EMK Family Charitable Fund
Dennis and Barbara Evans
Bill Franey
Margaret Grant Frey
Steve and Trisha Frey
Steve and Peggy Gardner
Jeff and Julie Garvin
Bob and Mildred Gilles
Chris and Jenny Glaser
Sue Gough
Frank and Connie Hagan
James Hay - In Memory of Lula Gasser Hay
Rose Kamuf Hayden
Tom and Katherine Hayden
Mark and Rita Heinz
Bill and Theresa Jones
Chris and Paula Kavolus
Bryan and Laura Klump
Chris and Jane Lovekamp
Larry and Gene Lyon
Charles and Mary Ann Medley
John and Mary Medley
Charles T. Merimee
Gene and Mary J. Meyer
Jerrod Moore
Greg and Kim Mullican
Dr. William and Sherry O’Bryan
Ty and Lindsey Roach Petway
Robert and Vicki Johnson-Poynter
Murray and Sara Pride
David and Julie Payne Renshaw
Tony Reynolds
Alan and Monica Riney
Steve Riney
Terry and Mary Lee Posey Roark
Mike and Janice Scherm
Dr. Sean and Bree Simone
Carol Thornberry Sims - In Memory of Timothy Sims
Harold and Rhonda Staples
Gene and Margaret Jane Strehl
Anne Lauzon Swinford
Joseph G. Szemethy
Frances Tichenor
Ken and Sarah Wilhelm
Cheering on the Aces Cheering on the Aces at THE 2025 STATE FINALS
Under the leadership of Head Coach Jason Morris, Aces Football made its third trip to the state championship, continuing a run of excellence that has defined the program. While the outcome at Kroger Field in December was not what we hoped for, the season itself was nothing short of remarkable.
The overwhelming support from our fans—pictured here—was a powerful reminder that Aces pride travels well and shows up when it matters most.
Special Projects
$1,196,083.36
OCHS would like to give a huge THANK YOU to all our donors who so generously gave to all the special projects this year. With the generosity of all the donors, we raised $1,196,083.36. We are so overwhelmed with the abundance of gifts we received this year and listed them below to let you know what we’ve been working towards this year! If you have any questions regarding these projects or would like to contribute to any of them, please contact Natalie Hayden at natalie.hayden@owensborocatholic.org.
l Athletic Endowment
l Band
l Baseball
l Basketball
l Boys Soccer
l Chapel
l Chapel Furnishings
l Cheerleading
l Community Partners
l Cross Country
l FFA
l Football
l Girls Soccer
l Golf
l Health
l Media Center
l Practice Facility
l Softball
l Theatre
l Tuition Assistance
l Wrestling
There have been MANY generous gifts from donors to the chapel project over the last several years. This is the 2025 donor list only. A comprehensive chapel list of donors will be listed in the 2026 Summer edition of The Green and White magazine. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this project.
CHAPEL
$934,098.96
Todd and Joy Anderson - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Anonymous Donor
Anonymous Donor - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Mark and Monica Augustine - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Chris and Karen Johnson Baer - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Brett and Katie Ballard
Bert Barker
Pamelia Storms-Barrett - In Honor of Holden, Sam, Jackson & Carol Staples
Rick and Lisa Bivins
Kenneth and Virginia Blandford - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
William and Holly Bodne
Mary Bryan Medley Booth
In Memory of Fr. J Edward Bradley
Bart and Cheryl Bruner
Sean and Jennifer Byrne
Drs. Matheis and Amy Carrico
Steve and Judy Carrico
Jerry and Leslie King Carter - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Wayne and Martha Cashen - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Patrick and Carolyn Cason
Stephen and Donna Cecil - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Martha Fitts Clark
Zach and Courtney Clark
Class of 1958
Class of 1975
Class of 1985
Randy and Heather Clemens - In Memory of Eugene Charles Clemens and Janet Drury Kuegel Westmoreland
Joan Collins - In Honor of Dr. Carol
Collins Carriveau
Lori Conkright - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Stanley and Dee Ann Conn - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Dr. Joe and Tracey Danzer
Alex DeGrand - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Mark Ebelhar - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Rick and Isa Ebelhar
Laura Ruth Edge
Mike and Tina Edge
Sarah Edge - The James L Edge Family
David and Lisa Coomes EnglertSouthern Star Matching Gift
David and Lisa Coomes Englert
Envision Contractors
Gary and Beverly Estes
Jonathan and Renea Estes
Keith and Rachel Evans
Fieldcrest Crossing Homeowners Assoc Inc - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Bill Franey
Lee Franey
Vince and Joan Frey
Vince and Joan Frey - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Jim Tony Fulkerson
Jim Tony Fulkerson - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Jane Fulkerson
Steve and Peggy Gardner
Jeff and Julie Garvin
Steve and Kim Garvin
Ray and Jane Garvin
Bob and Mildred Gilles - In Memory of Bob Slack
Cecil Gillstrap
Carol Stinnett Goetz - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Thomas and Mary Beth Goetz
Gary and Jennifer Frey - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Richard and Joyce Gruenewald
Trip and Carole Guthrie
Frank and Connie Hagan
Branden and Rebecca Haines
Branden and Rebecca Haines - State Farm Matching Gift
Hadley Harrington - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Garrick and Maria Hart
Hartz Contracting
John H. Hartz, Jr. - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Joe and Johnny Hartz - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
David and Paula Hayden - In Memory of Georgia Powell
Don Hayden
Joseph Cooper Hayden
David and Paula Hayden
Russ and Vicki Hayden
Richard and Natalie Hayden
Mike and Alice Hays
Charlotte Hedges
David and Lisa Higdon
Jeff and Lynn Hofer
George Hollander - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Michael E. Horn Family Foundation Inc.
David and Karen Jarboe
Bill and June Johnson - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
- In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Pete and Patty Johnson
Richard and Rebecca Jo Johnson IrvinIn Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Ed and Cindy Jones - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
John and Susan Jones - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Linda Kamuf - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
- In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr. Bill Kelley
Gregg and Emily Baker KernIn Memory of Mike Baker
Mike and Jonna Knox - In Memory of Ann Bresler Knox
Sharon Knox Tucker - In Honor of Judy Denton
- In Honor of Mary Alice Wethington
Tom Knox - In Memory of Ann Bresler
Knox
Tom and Cherie Knox - In Memory of Ann Bresler Knox
Koch Foundation Inc.
John Kurre Family - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Kurtz Auction and Realty Co.
John and Chrissy Kurtz
Lark Electric
Laura Lashbrook
David and Cathy Lindow
Anthony and Mary LoPresti - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Chris and Jane Lovekamp
Larry and Gene Lyon - In Memory of Bob Slack
Mark Malony - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Keith and Pamela Martin - In Memory of Randall and Jessie Martin
Mike and Jan Martin
Geri Martinez
Dr. Brandy Galloway Mathews
John and Carolyn McCarty
Charles and Mary Medley
Altaf and Ashley Merchant
Joe and Vicki Mills
Charlotte Mischel
Mike and Karen Mischel - In Honor of Evan Grant and Kathryn Grant
Marty and Becky Mitchell
Clint Montgomery - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Dion Moorman
Greg and Kim Mullican
Paul and Donna Munsey - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Tom Neal - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Jerry and Suzanne O’DonnellIn Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Pat and Marilyn Pace
Dr. Pat and Suzanne Padgett
Andrew Payne - In Memory of Coach Bruce Embry
Samantha Payne - In Memory of Vickie Buford
William Payne
Pond River Farms - In Memory of David and Chris Boarman
Pratt Paper - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Chip and Amy Pride - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
- In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Eddie and Melinda Prunty
Ron and Cathy Frey-Ramsey
Owen Reeves
Don and Dee Riney and Family
Jeremy and Karissa Riter - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Andy Roby
Roman Catholic Bishop of OwensboroIn Memory of Fr. Ed Bradley
Mary Z. Roushdi
Ryan and Chivvone Rutman
Terry and Mary Faye SchreckerIn Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Charlie and Becky SheltonIn Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Mark and Martha Sims
Mark and Martha Sims - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Southern Star - matching gift for Will and Mary Katherine Wathen
Barbara Stallings
Ron and Kelly Stallings
Kent and Juli Wurth Stewart
Ernie and Shirley Taliaferro
Ernie and Shirley Taliaferro - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
- In Memory of Mary Katlyn Taliaferro
- In Memory of Michael Taliaferro
- In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Elaine Thomas - In Memory of Mary Hilda McFarland
- In Memory of Fr. Ed Bradley
Travis Thomspon - In Memory of Elizabeth Anne Thompson
Ben and Brittany Thompson
Brandon and Kristin ThompsonIn Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Cloa Thompson - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Shelby and Mary Ann Thompson
Drs. Sam and Whitney Thompson
Eddie and Peggy Tichenor - In Memory of Lucille’s Legacy
Kenneth and Judy TindallIn Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Sharon Knox Tucker - In Honor of Mary
Alice Wethington
- In Honor of Judy Denton
Barney and Sharon Knox TuckerIn Memory of Ann Bresler Knox
Ryan and Lesley Van DanikerIn Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Chip and Mary Katherine Van Meter
Patsy Van Meter
Patsy Van Meter - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
George and Joanie Wathen
George and Joanie Wathen - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Will and Mary Katherine Wathen
Chad and Leslie Watts - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Allen and Sandra Westerfield - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
In Honor of Sharon Knox Tucker
Ken and Sarah Wilhelm
Gordon Wilkerson - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Doug and Doris Williams - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Doug Wood - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Jackie and Theresa Wyatt - In Memory of Buzz Van Meter
Joyce Yeiser - In Honor of Rita Howard Heinz
Tom and Patty Young - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
OTHER SPECIAL GIFTS
$261,984.40
Joe and Robin Abel - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Kurt Anderson - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Anonymous Donor - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Anonymous Donor
Bert Barker - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Joyce Bickett - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Joe and Beth Bissmeyer - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Colby and Heather Blair
Mary Bryan Booth - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Bowen Tire - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Shelby Boyd - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Judy Brown - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Bill and Sally Buford - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Marcia Carpenter - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Drs. Matheis and Amy Carrico
Class of 1988 - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Laura Conkright - In Memory of David Conkright ’70
Sue Draper - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Ron and Carol Ebelhar
Clara Evrard - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Joe and Winnie Foster - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Margaret Frey - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Steven and Trisha Frey
Jim Tony Fulkerson - In Memory of Corky Norcia - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Bob and Mildred Gilles - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Joe Hagan - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Stephen and Susan Hagan
Joe and Marie Hancock - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Arthur and Debra Harreld - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Grady and Carole Harreld - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Hadley Harrington - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Hartz Contracting
John and Joseph Hartz - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Sonny and Pat Hayden - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Jeff and Lynn Hofer - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Michael Horn Foundation
Mel and Bev Howard
Shawn and Beth Blandford Hunter - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Patty Johnson - In Memory of Pete Johnson, Sr.
Gary and Linda Kabalen - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Linda Kamuf - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Jamie and Angie Klump - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Robert and Linda Knight - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Kurtz Auction and Reality Co.In Memory of Paul J. Martin
John and Chrissy Kurtz - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Mitchell and Martha Long - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Chris and Jane Lovekamp
Larry and Gene Lyon
Phil and Nancy Malone - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Paul and Benita Martin - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Chris Johnson Matthews - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Scott and Cindy McCain - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
William Medley - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Theresa O’Bryan Mercker
Joe and Vicki Mills - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Joe and Vicki Mills - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Don Moore Automotive - In Memory of Corky Norcia
David and Kelly Moore - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Lynn Moss - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Terry Murphy - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
William R. and Donna Murphy
O’Bryan Contracting Inc
Owensboro Health
Pat and Marilyn Pace
Joe and Felicity Polio - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Rita Prajapati - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Ron and Cathy Frey-Ramsey - In Memory of Corky Norcia
George and Pam Randolph - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
John and Lou Ray - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Tim and Pam Riley
Riney Hancock CPAs - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Alan and Monica Riney - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Ed and Mary Riney - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Fr. Jerry Riney - In Memory of Joseph C. and M. Sue Riney
Kevin and Shannon Robbins
Matching Gift - Kevin and Shannon
Robbins
Mark and Lisa Schmidt - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Robin and Teresa Scott - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Brett and Julie Stallings - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Tres and Katie Sterett - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Don and Shirley Story - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
James and Sue Tacker - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Ernie and Shirley Taliaferro - In Memory of Corky Norcia - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Mike and Linda Todd - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph
Paul Warren - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Mayme Weikel - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
Elaine Wesnofske - In Memory of Corky Norcia
John and Dee Dee Wethington - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Mary Alice Wethington - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
John and Kathy Wright - In Memory of Paul J. Martin
William Wright - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Gloria Zinobile - In Memory of Corky Norcia
Thank you to all who contributed in memory of the following loved ones: Joseph “Tony” McPherson ’63, H. Joseph O’Bryan, Buzz Van Meter ’61, Jennie L. James, Bob Slack ’52, Corky Norcia ’57, Bob Hawley ’62, Dolores Blincoe, Pete Johnson, Sr. ’65, Dr. Andrew Ward, Ann Bresler Knox ’71 and Paul J Martin ’67.
OC CONNECT 2026
Help Power the OC Connect Phonathon
Volunteers Needed!
March 3rd kicks off the OC Connect Phonathon, a series of calling nights where volunteers help strengthen our community by calling and texting friends and alumni to support OCS.
We’re looking for twelve teams of eight volunteers to either join a calling group or host a team for one of the scheduled nights. It’s simple, social, and impactful—and yes, snacks and good company are strongly implied!
The incentive? The top ten graduating classes with the highest total donations will earn a spot on the Giving Wall Hall of Fame. Bragging rights included!
Whether you can make one night or want to rally a full team, your participation makes a real difference for our students and schools.
Sign up using the QR code to select a calling night or host a team.
Let’s connect, compete, and give back— together.
Will you be donating during the OC Connect 2026 to help your class? The Top Ten giving classes in 2026 will have their class year posted on our new Giving Classes Wall of Fame.
HONORING A LEGACY Kamuf Way
Owensboro Catholic Schools recently celebrated the enduring legacy of Charlie Kamuf ’57 with the dedication of Kamuf Way, a meaningful tribute to a man whose faith, generosity, and commitment to Catholic education spanned decades.
A proud graduate of Owensboro Catholic High School, Charlie remained deeply connected to the school community long after graduation. Together, Charlie and his wife, Linda, were steadfast supporters of Catholic education—giving generously of their time, resources, and advocacy. Their children, and now grandchildren, have followed in Charlie’s footsteps, shaped by the same faithfilled education he so dearly valued.
The renaming of Taylor Drive (adjacent to the high school) to Kamuf Way serves as a visible and lasting reminder of the Kamuf family’s devotion to our schools and their belief in the mission of Catholic education. The Kamufs’ most recent gift also made possible the expansion of the OCHS parking lot—an improvement that will serve the community for years to come.
The dedication ceremony, held in the Owensboro Catholic High School Gym, brought together students, faculty, alumni, and friends of OCS to reflect on Charlie’s lasting impact.
Owensboro Catholic Schools is grateful to the Kamuf family and to all who joined in honoring Charlie’s life and legacy. Kamuf Way stands not only as a road name, but as a symbol of faith in action and a legacy that continues to guide our community forward.
Charlie’s legacy lives on. Recently, another home on Dean Avenue came up for sale and is being purchased by Owensboro Catholic High School, thanks to the generosity of Charlie’s wife, Linda ’61. No immediate plans have been made for this property.
Members of Charlie’s family celebrate with OCHS staff during the dedication of Kamuf Way. Pictured at right: Charlie’s wife, Linda Kamuf ’61, and their children Charlie Kamuf II ’90, Christy Kamuf Hayden ’94, and Karen Kamuf Head ’88.
The Importance of Class Reunions
This message is not just for the Class of 1974, but to all of graduation classes past and future.
Your four years at Catholic High are not just years of learning. They are years of developing friendships that can last a lifetime.
Class reunions are important and will keep those years and friendships alive.
In January, we lost the backbone of our reunion committee. Christopher Audrey Dunn ’74 loved this school and was devoted to keeping our class together.
As many of us knew, Chris was a very private person when it came to his personal life. His passing was a shock. He wanted no acknowledgment for his class dedication. Our committee and so many in other classes are heartbroken about his loss. This man was extremely smart in many ways. He was loving, generous, humble and a very well established businessman. He was the driving force of our reunion committee, with his sole purpose of making sure we got as many of our classmates to the reunions as possible. His desire was to see that all enjoyed each gathering to the fullest. It is our belief that it was achieved with our 50th reunion. It was by far over and above his expectations.
We wished Godspeed to our good friend Chris on January 23, 2026. He is flying in his plane to the highest cloud, soaring above us free of pain, and resting peacefully in the arms of the angels. May he carry with him the love all of us felt for him. Chris will truly be missed. It was our honor to have known him, worked with him, and to have him in our lives.
Dedicated by the Class of 1974 Reunion Committee
REUNIONS Milestone
Come Home!
In the historic Dogwood Azalea neighborhood of Griffith Avenue in Owensboro, OCHS is a special place where you spent several milestone years of your life. Maybe you moved on to raise your own family or pursued your dream career here or in another state. We invite you to come home!
Reunion Plans?
Here are a few reunion services offered by the OCS Central Office:
l Provide class list for mailings
l OC Representative to speak at event
l Share and promote your reunion through OCS
l Onsite Mass or tour before reunion
Reunions bring the OCS family back together—and we’re here to help. Reach out to Jenny to see how we can support your upcoming reunion.
The Class of 1976 will be celebrating their 50th Reunion at Immaculate Parish Center. Invitation and more details to follow. Please send any contact updates to: Vicki Mills at vmills541@gmail.com
Anyone wanting to help with arrangements is welcome!
JULY 18, 2026
2016
AUGUST 1, 2026
1966
AUGUST 28-29, 2026
1986
The Class of 1986 will be celebrating their 40th Reunion at the first home football game of the season! Saturday festivities TBA.
1996
The Class of 1996 will host the alumni tailgate at the home football game featuring OCHS vs DCHS. On August 29, they will tour OCHS and attend a class mass.
SEPTEMBER 12, 2026
1961
Celebrating their 65th Reunion!
Investing for the Future
Owensboro Catholic High School is launching a major fundraising initiative to enhance its soccer facility and invest in the future of the program. These planned improvements are designed to elevate both the game-day atmosphere and daily training experience for student-athletes.
Proposed enhancements include upgraded team dugouts, a new press box, an enhanced scoreboard, and additional facility improvements that support player development and fan engagement. Every dollar donated will go directly toward building a facility that supports developmentally rich, inclusive programs for both boys’ and girls’ soccer—creating an environment where student-athletes can grow, compete, and thrive.
This initiative is about more than infrastructure; it’s about honoring the tradition of Aces Soccer while preparing the next generation for success on and off the field. The proposed rendering offers an exciting glimpse into what lies ahead for the program.
Those interested in supporting the project or learning more are encouraged to reach out to Andy Donohoe or Natalie Hayden. Contributions may be made by check (please note “Soccer Project” in the memo line). Together, our community can help create a home for Aces Soccer that reflects the pride, passion, and excellence of Owensboro Catholic.
Central Office 1524 West Parrish Ave Owensboro, KY 42301 270.686.8896
- $500,000
AcesFaces
We want to continue to share in the joys and successes of our alumni. Please take a moment and submit some news to us on how you are doing. New marriage, baby, job, move? Let us hear from you. All correspondence, along with photos, may be emailed to Sidney Bennett at sidney.bennett@owensborocatholic.org.
Matt Gray ’90
Matt Gray, a graduate of Owensboro Catholic High School, Class of 1990, has spent more than 30 years as an international, award-winning music producer, song writer and multi-instrument musician.
His career began in Nashville, Tennessee, where he developed his skills in music production, performance, and arrangement. He later returned to Owensboro to establish the city’s first—and only—jingle production studio, along with a professional recording studio serving both local and international clients.
Matt’s musical roots began early. He started playing at age 7 at Saints Joseph and Paul Catholic Church, influenced greatly by his mother, Mary Bonnie Gray, also an OCHS graduate. During his school years, he played and sang at Masses, forming a lifelong connection to sacred music and liturgy.
For the past 30 years, Matt has served as Director of Music and Liturgy at Immaculate Catholic Church. He currently directs four choirs (soon to be five) and works with multiple instrumentalists. The music program at Immaculate is widely recognized for its strong liturgical foundation, musical quality, and reverence.
Matt recently launched Liturgical Sound Consulting, born from his experience as renovation chair for Immaculate’s multi-million-dollar church renovation. Seeing firsthand how poor sound can hinder worship, he began focusing on sound design that supports the liturgy through clear spoken word, balanced music, and intelligibility throughout the worship space.
His sound consulting work now includes projects at Blessed Mother, St. William, Immaculate Conception, The Immaculate Parish and St. Peter of Alcantara.
Matt believes sound is essential to Catholic worship. Music is prayer, not background, and the spoken word must be clear and intelligible. As the Church has long taught, “he who sings, prays twice” -St. Augustine. Quality sound ensures that both music and proclamation are fully heard and fully received.
ACES FACES
Joe O’Bryan
Teacher, Principal, Superintendent—and a Life of Service to OCS
By Kurt Osborne ’88, OCHS Senior Counselor
During his homily for the feast of the Immaculate Conception, Fr. Daniel made the point that Mary was “full of grace, because she always did the will of God.”
As I reflect on the life of Joe O’Bryan, I keep circling back to that thought, always answering yes to the will of God. When Mr. O’Bryan first walked into the halls of Owensboro Catholic High School, his mission in life was to teach religion. And this is exactly what he did for nearly 16 years. But God had other plans for Mr. O’Bryan, and despite his personal wants, he was always quick to answer God’s call.
Mr. O’Bryan started at Catholic High in the fall of 1969 and his impact was almost instantaneous. While teaching religion was his priority, he always saw a greater need that existed in the building and was quick to address those needs. To turn the gym into the “sacred space” needed for school Masses, Mr. O’Bryan used his skills in building stages, platforms, canopies and other works of art. School Masses for over 1,000 students could be quite the undertaking and Mr. O’Bryan wanted to make the experience as reverent and memorable as possible for students and faculty alike. As a teacher, he had a true gentleness about him, but also a quick sense of humor. He was a teacher who met the student where they were in their relationship with Jesus. He had that knack of knowing exactly what to say to students to bring them closer to Christ, but often, he was able to do that without saying a word.
Mr. O’Bryan soon became chair of the Religion Department, and while he never aspired for more than that, God had other plans. In the fall of 1985, Mr. O’Bryan said yes to becoming the OCHS Principal, the first lay person to ever hold that position at Catholic High. This is where his work ethic went into overdrive. He was always around, even in the summers doing whatever was
needed to make Catholic High a better place. Sherry Orth, a former student and co-worker of Mr. O’Bryan said, “he was always the first to arrive and the last to leave. The man worked all the time.” Mr. O’Bryan had the ability to look into the future of Catholic Education and helped guide OCHS through the first consolidation and the formation of the middle school. In 1991, he was called to serve in a different capacity as the first lay Superintendent of the Diocese of Owensboro Catholic Schools, a position he held until his retirement in 2017.
Mr. O’Bryan passed away in February 2025 with his wife of 52 years Maggie, at his side. Mr. O’Bryan is known as being “human, humble and holy all at the same time.” That is how those of us who were taught by him and worked with him will remember him. He was one of the kindest men I ever knew. I believe former colleague Marilyn Pace may have summed up Mr. O’Bryan best when she stated, “During the years that I worked with Joe as a fellow teacher and then observing him as principal, I saw many, many examples of his kindness and guidance to students and staff. Joe was a gentle man who always put others first. A true servant of God.”
ACES FACES
Jimmy ’87 and Amy Rector Hartz ’89
Love, Loyalty, and a Pickleball Paddle
For Jimmy and Amy, Owensboro Catholic has never been just a place they attended—it’s a place that helped shape who they are, the friendships they still treasure, and the values that continue to anchor their lives today.
Both graduates of Owensboro Catholic High School, Jimmy went on to attend Murray State University, while Amy continued her education at Western Kentucky University. But when they reflect on their high school years, it’s not transcripts or titles that come to mind first, it’s people, spirit, and shared moments.
“The friends we made are still a constant presence in our lives,” they say. Memories of Friday night football and basketball games remain vivid, as well as Amy cheering from the sidelines and Jimmy competing on the basketball and tennis courts. They recall dances, school Mass, and mentors like Coach Embry, Mr. O’Bryan, and Father Brad, along with countless faculty and staff who shaped their learning and lives. The crowded hallways between classes, lunches in the courtyard, and an unmistakable Catholic spirit made Owensboro Catholic something you didn’t just attend, you experienced.
Today, that same sense of connection continues, just with a slightly different soundtrack: the pop of a pickleball.
Like many couples entering a new season of life, Jimmy and Amy found themselves as recent empty nesters in 2021, searching for a way to stay active and connected. Kayaking and hiking were contenders, until Amy and her friend Stacy Nunley picked up pickleball paddles and convinced the guys to give it a try at York Park. What started as curiosity quickly turned into commitment when they happened upon the River City Pickleball Club’s one-year anniversary celebration.
“They welcomed us to the courts and showed us how to play,” they say. “We haven’t left since.”
Now avid players, Jimmy and Amy play two to three times a week during the winter, though friends might argue that number is optimistic, and up it to five or six times a week when warmer weather allows for outdoor play. York Park and Centre Court are local favorites, but their love of the game travels with them, especially to Naples, Florida.
That passion has even led them into competitive play. The couple participates in local tournaments and makes an annual summer trip to Calvert City. Their highlight so far? The U.S. Open Pickleball Championships in Naples. In 2024, Jimmy, playing alongside his cousin and former OCHS tennis coach Guy Durham, captured a gold medal in their age group; a win made even sweeter by shared history and family ties.
While tournaments bring added pressure, Jimmy and Amy enjoy meeting players from all walks of life who share the same love for the game. For them, pickleball is about more than competition, it’s community.
After years spent coaching, volunteering, and cheering on their three sons from the sidelines, pickleball has reawakened their competitive spirit—“as long as our knees hold out,” they joke. More importantly, it’s given them a way to reconnect during this chapter of life, spending time together doing something they both enjoy.
Their advice to other couples entering the empty-nester years is simple but sincere: find something new to do together. Pickleball turned out to be the perfect fit—especially since Jimmy’s tennis background and Amy’s search for something fresh finally aligned. Add in travel and weekend trips to new places, and suddenly it feels a little like dating all over again.
Perhaps the biggest surprise has been the friendships formed along the way. “We always have something new to look forward to,” they share. “The people we’ve met are now close friends, and the thrill of competition keeps us energized.”
As for who’s more competitive on the court? The couple says that one is too close to call.
From crowded hallways at Owensboro Catholic to pickleball courts across the country, Jimmy and Amy’s story is a reminder that community, connection, and joy are lifelong gifts, ones that continue to grow with each new chapter.
ACES FACES
Sidney Riney Bennett ’14
Sidney recently joined Owensboro Catholic Schools as the Digital Marketing Coordinator. A native of Owensboro, and a proud graduate of OCHS, Class of 2014, Sidney went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University and her master’s degree from Union College. She and her husband, Bo reside in Hartford, KY and have a one-year-old daughter, Riney Cate.
As an OCHS alum, Sidney is grateful for the friendships, faith-filled experiences, and sense of community that continue long after graduation. She is excited to help share the stories of fellow alumni and celebrate the moments—big and small—that make the OCS family so special.
Have news to share—or know an alum who should be featured? Email sidney.bennett@owensborocatholic.org and help us keep the tradition growing.
Staff Spotlight
Charlie Morales Named One of Owensboro Living’s “Top 20 People to Watch”
Owensboro Catholic High School is proud to celebrate Charlie Morales, who was recently named one of Owensboro Living magazine’s Top 20 People to Watch—an honor recognizing individuals making a meaningful impact in our community.
As a Spanish teacher at OCHS, Mr. Morales brings energy, purpose, and cultural connection into the classroom, inspiring students through language, service, and real-world experiences. Beyond campus, he is the owner of Antojitos Ágape, a food truck known for sharing authentic flavors that invite community and togetherness, and Morales Restoration, a business dedicated to transforming and restoring spaces where families and communities gather.
Whether through education, entrepreneurship, or service, Morales is committed to strengthening community pride and creating connections rooted in culture and care. As he looks ahead to 2026, his focus remains on expanding those efforts—bringing passion into the classroom and building experiences that connect people through food, language, and service.
Owensboro Catholic is grateful to have educators like Mr. Morales whose work reflects our mission and makes a lasting impact well beyond our walls.
ACES FACES
Gary Newcom ’75
When Gary Newcom walked the halls of Owensboro Catholic High School, he never could have imagined the path God had laid out for him. Sitting still in a classroom was a challenge, and college felt even more unappealing—more books, more studying, more sitting. “By the grace of God, I graduated,” he laughs, remembering how ready he was to step into the world.
At just 17, Gary made a life-changing decision: he joined the United States Navy. Before leaving for bootcamp in San Diego, he married his high school sweetheart, Teresita. They eloped, beginning a partnership that would accompany him through decades of deployments, relocations, and service.
Gary’s Navy career spanned 45 years, taking him across the country and around the world. He served in Hawaii on multiple afloat tours, deployed to the South and Western Pacific, and held shore assignments including Cape Canaveral, Charleston, and Washington, D.C. Later, he transitioned to civil service positions, working at the Pentagon for 15 years, including 10 years under the Chief of Staff for the Chief of Naval Operations, and five years with Naval Intelligence as a computer specialist.
Throughout his career, Gary says his favorite part was the camaraderie and the people he served alongside. Every assignment and deployment offered a new challenge, and he relied on his faith, his discipline, and the steadfast support of his wife to navigate them all. “At every crossroads, God had His hand in it,” he reflects.
Gary credits his Catholic education and the lessons of military life with giving him a strong foundation. He learned how to communicate, lead, and adapt to ever-changing environments, always striving to improve himself and serve others.
In 2020, Gary retired from active service and returned to his roots in Owensboro. His advice for anyone considering the military is honest and heartfelt: “You have to be strong-willed and confident. It’s not a job where you’re home every day at 4 o’clock. You’ll miss holidays, anniversaries, big moments. Your whole family sacrifices. You need their strength behind you.”
For Gary, that strength was always there, in faith and in his family.
Aces Night Out is just around the corner—where tradition meets a night to celebrate!
ACES NIGHT OUT
Celebrate 75 Years of Aces pride with a night of food, fun, music and more!
March 28, 2026 l 6-11 PM
Owensboro Convention Center
We encourage you to purchase tickets or tables with your family, classmates, or former teammates! If you’ve been waiting for the perfect opportunity for a reunion, this is it!
