Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Catherine Jane Keys French, age 94, was called home by Jesus on January 17, 2026, in Brandenburg, Kentucky.
Catherine was born on September 25, 1931, to John and Ethel Keys. She was a strong, independent, and feisty woman of God who loved people deeply. She loved to travel and was always doing for others, often putting their needs before her own. Catherine lived out her faith every day, not just through words, but through the way she treated people—with kindness, compassion, and genuine love. Her strength, perseverance, and servant’s heart were evident in all areas of her life.
She leaves behind her six children: Gary French (wife Joyce), Michael French (wife Donna), Philip French (wife Diana), Marcus French (wife Annette), Renea Rainey (husband Gary), and Anita McCurley (husband Wayne).
She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Gary Jr., Joshua, and Nicole French; John and Jason French; Melanie Lucas; Derick and David Rainey; Alexander McCurly, Emily Stiles, and Olivia McCurley; and Kenneth, Robert, and Jennifer Henley. Catherine was also blessed with twenty-three great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her great joy.
Catherine is survived by her siblings, Donald Joe Keys (wife Mary Lou) and Annie Carolyn Haddaway, along with numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved very much.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ethel Keys; her husband, George French; and her eldest son, Larry French.
Catherine worked for ten years at the Olin Ammunition Plant and later fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse in 1978 at the age of 47. She was also a Stanley Home Products dealer and distributor for many, many years, where she built friendships that lasted a lifetime.
She will be deeply missed by all of us who knew and loved her. While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in God’s promise and are reminded that we grieve, but not as those who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). Her faith, love, and strength will live on through her family and all the lives she touched.
Funeral services will be held at Walnut Grove Baptist Church on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 11 AM with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held at Trent-Dowell Funeral Home on Thursday, 2 – 7 PM and Friday, 8:30 – 10:15 AM. All times are central.
Expressions of sympathy are suggested to Walnut Grove Cemetery.