Longtime philanthropist and local community advocate Thomas “Brown” Badgett Jr. passed away Friday morning, leaving behind two communities who mourn his loss.
Badgett Jr. and his family have been the driving force behind numerous initiatives across both Madisonville and Hopkinsville that have left a legacy that will be felt locally for many years to come. But, according to the obituary with Hughart, Beard and Giles Funeral Home, Badgett—best known as Brown to his loved ones—he never sought recognition.
Numerous programs and organizations have felt the impact from Badgett and his wife of 36-years, Sue Cumbee Badgett, including the Parks and Recreation Center in Greenville, the Pediatric Ward at Baptist Health Deaconess, the Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University, the Hopkinsville-Christian County Public Library, Maryhurst in Louisville and many more.
Instead of flowers, the family ask that memorials be made to the Salvation Army or the Boys and Girls Club of Hopkinsville, or to Maryhurst of Louisville.
Badgett leaves behind a family that will forever miss him—but they’re not alone in that, as many will feel the loss of Badgett in this area for many years to come.