Robert Earl Devine

SACRAMENTO – Robert Earl Devine, 74, left this world for his heavenly home on September 20, 2018. Earl was born on October 27, 1943, to parents Linzy and Alma Devine in Sacramento, Kentucky. Earl’s early childhood was spent in Bremen, Kentucky, until his family moved to Sacramento when he was in the sixth grade, where he first met the love of his life, Julia Miller. Earl and Julia both graduated from Sacramento High School in 1961. In December 1961, Earl and Julia married, beginning a 56-year marriage that has been an inspiration to their family and friends. Earl graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1965, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in education while working his way through school at Houchens. During this time, his prides and joys, son Todd and his daughter Becky, were born. The Devine family moved to Hopkinsville, where Earl worked at Houchens. Earl and his family eventually found their way back home to Sacramento, where he lived until he passed, at home. Earl was a respected and honored educator. In 1971, Earl began his teaching career as the Sacramento High School boys’ basketball coach. Earl then became principal of Sacramento School in 1973, and he became Director of Pupil Personnel in 1978. He later served as Assistant Superintendent. In the final years of his career, Earl served as Superintendent of McLean County Public Schools, retiring in 1998. Still known as “Mr. Devine” by many, for his contributions to the McLean County community, he will be sadly missed. He loved working the land, riding his tractor, caring for his cows and livestock, and working in the garden with Julia. People drove for miles to admire the log cabin he and Julia rebuilt on their property. He was a wonderful neighbor, always willing to lend a helping hand. Every night, he made sure his dog Baxter got plenty of exercise, and then he worked his crossword puzzles while enjoying his nighttime snacks. Strong in his Christian faith, he spent much of his time studying the Word, and he loved his church family at Olive Branch Baptist Church in Hanson, Kentucky. Earl may have been known as Mr. Devine to many, but at home, he was Dad and Poppa. He was so proud of his family, and he was such a guiding light to them. Earl will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 56 years, Julia Miller Devine; and his children, Todd (Kaye) Devine of Sacramento, and Becky (Terry) Riley of Sacramento. Poppa leaves behind three grandchildren, Linzie (Zach) Wells, Shelby Burden, and Austin Devine, and two great-grandchildren, Max and Ellie Wells. Earl is also survived by sister-in-law Reba Devine. Earl was preceded in death by his parents Linzy and Alma Devine, brother Gerald Devine, sister Ruth Keith, grandson Micheal Keith Coke, and granddaughter Julia Kenna Burden. The Funeral Service will be Sunday, September 23, 2018 at 2:00 PM at Tucker Memorial Chapel in Sacramento, Kentucky with Rev. Gary Taylor officiating. Burial in Free Union Cemetery in Sacramento. Visitation will be Saturday after 4:00 PM at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.tuckerfuneralhomes.com. Donations can be made to Free Union Cemetery In memory of Earl Devine 1184 Ky 254 West, Sacramento, KY 42372.