J.B. Speed

J.B. Speed, age 97, of Owensboro, KY, reunited with his beloved wife in heaven on December 8, 2025. Born in Owensboro on July 16, 1928, to James and Margaret Speed. J.B. experienced incredible change during his lifetime. J.B. was a devoted family man with a strong work ethic. He retired from Wright Machine after 40+ years where enjoyed calling on his customers for his entire career. Still full of energy after retirement, he continued working for several years at Enterprise and Roberts Motors.

J.B. is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and DeAnna Speed of Owensboro; daughter, Judy Lamb of Indianapolis; daughter, Deborah Cornell of Owensboro; grandchildren, Jonathan, Sydney, Kelley and Jason; special nephew, Johnnie (Gwen) Noel; many nieces, nephews, and other family and friends; plus his grand dogs, Teddy and Brutus. After 97 years, J.B. saw many friends and family precede him in death, including his parents and siblings, and he is now celebrating with them.

J.B. had a long and happy marriage of 56 years with his wife, Michael Lysbeth Speed, who preceded him in death in 2022. He missed her tremendously over the last three years. They enjoyed traveling, spending a month at Daytona Beach in the winter and weeks touring the west in the summer. J.B. never missed one of Jonathan or Sydney’s ballgames. He sat with popcorn in hand cheering (and sometimes yelling), enjoying every minute. He loved being with his grandchildren and was even seen driving Jonathan in his side-by-side through the woods this past summer. J.B. was also quite the pool player, playing into his 90s.

Although J.B. had 97 long and happy years, it never seems like enough for the family. We will miss his quick wit, charm, fascinating stories collected during his nearly century of life, advice, love, and support. We will cherish his memory until we meet again.

The funeral service for J.B will be held at 12 p.m. Monday, December 15, 2025, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory with Glenn Armstrong officiating. Visitation will be held Sunday from 3 until 6 p.m. at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory and on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of the service at the funeral home.

Memories and condolences for the family of J.B. Speed may be left at www.glenncares.com.