Opal Giltner

Mrs. Opal Louise Denker Giltner, 95, of Murray, Kentucky, was called home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Passion and Purpose Home Care Assisted Living.

Mrs. Giltner was born on September 29, 1929, in Paducah, Kentucky, to the late Frank and Opal Hughes Denker. She retired from Union Carbide/Martin Marietta after many years of service.

A gifted pianist, Opal shared her musical talents for many years as the pianist at First Baptist Church in Brookport, Illinois. She was also deeply committed to her church community, serving as a Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church in Murray and as the WMU Director of the Blood River Baptist Association, leaving an enduring legacy of service and faith.

Opal was preceded in death by her husband, Mr. Louis Odell Giltner; her son, Louis Odell Giltner, Jr.; and her sister, Donna B. James.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Louise Giltner Rudolph (Robbie) of Kirksey, Kentucky; her son, David Warren Giltner of Unionville, Illinois; two grandchildren, Mallory Louise Rudolph Howard (Robert) of Murray, Kentucky and Grant Vinson Rudolph (Camee) of Murray, Kentucky; and six great-grandchildren, Robert Preston Howard, Ben Rudolph Howard, Jack Sawyer Howard, Annalee Hope Rudolph, Wyatt Vinson Rudolph, and Reese Taylor Rudolph. 

A private family service will be held, with John Dale officiating. Mrs. Giltner will be entombed at Murray City Cemetery.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to St. Jude’s.

Please join the family in honoring the life of Mrs. Opal Giltner by visiting www.imesfh.com to share your memories and tributes.