Mrs. Earslene Broughton, 62, of Cannon, passed away Wednesday afternoon, April 29, 2026 at her home. She was born March 20, 1964 at Heidrick, the daughter of the late Leamon and Evelyn Bargo Gambrel.
Earslene was a former preschool instructional assistant, a Zone Manager with Lowe’s for 27 years and a member of the Highland Park Baptist Church. She was a woman of unwavering faith and incredible discipline and lived her life with a “work hard, do it right” philosophy that inspired everyone who knew her. She was a powerhouse of energy, often found walking four to six miles or going to the gym in the evenings. Her strength wasn’t just physical; it was a testament to her character—honest, hardworking and fiercely loyal.
She was a dedicated member of her church and lived by the truth, never wavering in her convictions. While her honesty was direct, it was rooted in a deep desire to see others reach their full potential.
Her love also found a home in the kitchen, where she was a gifted baker and cook. She was known for her cheesecake and carrot cake, which became staples of family celebrations. Her care extended to every member of the household, including her beloved dogs—Max, Storm and Tucker. She didn’t just provide for them, she pampered them, regularly preparing full-course meals from scratch to ensure they were well-cared for.
Above all else, she lived for her family and their happiness. Her life was a series of selfless acts. Her favorite moments included:
- Her Grandson, Braxton: He was truly her world. From driving three and half hours just to find a specific arcade game to listening intently as he explained the latest technology, she cherished every second they spent together.
- The Great Outdoors: She loved being active and traveling with her family, whether it was camping with Keith, attending concerts with Jonathan, relaxing at the lake or setting sail on a cruise.
- Family & Faith: She treasured the monthly dinners and holiday gatherings with her brothers and sisters. She found immense peace in her faith and took great joy in listening to her husband sing and play music.
Earslene was a woman who found her happiness in the happiness of others. To her, “family time” wasn’t just a phrase; it was her life’s work. She is a hero to her children and a beacon of strength to all who knew her.
On November 4, 1978, she united in marriage with Eddie D. Broughton and to this union two sons were born.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Leatus “Geebug” Gambrel.
Survivors include her loving husband of over 47 years, Eddie D. Broughton of Cannon; sons, Keith Broughton and wife, Brenda, of Barbourville and Jonathan Broughton of Cannon; sisters, Charlene Smith and husband, Calvin, of Barbourville, Sue Vaughn of Cannon, Claudia Vaughn and Kathy Jones and husband, Donnie, all of Barbourville, Linda Fothergill of Cannon, Zelma Collins and husband, Rev. Mike, of Heidrick and Lori Gibson of Erlanger; brothers, Roy Gambrel and wife, Francine, of Middlesboro and Steven Gambrel and wife, Annette, of Cannon; a cherished grandson, Braxton Broughton; along with many others family members and treasured friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Her funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Friday, May 8 at 5 P.M. with Rev. Jared Styles and Rev. Jeffrey Branum officiating. Entombment will be in the Barbourville Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be family and friends.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Thursday between 6 and 8 P.M. and Friday after 3 P.M. until the funeral hour.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
Send a condolence to the family of EARSLENE BROUGHTON.
For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.
