Mr. Eddie Wayne Creech, age seventy-one, passed away on Friday, February 10, 2023 at his home in Benham, KY surrounded by his loved ones.

Eddie was born on May 3, 1951 in Cumberland, KY to Edward Creech (also known as 'Judge') and Laura Kelly Creech. Being one of the youngest of eight children shaped his personality in a beautiful way. He was outgoing, easy to talk to, never met a stranger, and was raised to be gentleman.  After Eddie graduated from Cumberland High School in 1969, he immediately joined the United States Navy and served for four years. While stationed in the northeast part of the U.S., he met Catherine Norris and the two were married in 1972. After being honorably discharged, Eddie and Catherine moved back to Harlan County where he began working in the mines. He worked for several mining companies but U.S. Steel/Arch was where he spent most of his years working underground. He retired after more than 26 years as a coal miner.

Eddie was a family man and devoted his life to his family. He was a wonderful father to Richie and Eric and was involved in any activity his boys were a part of.   At Cumberland High School, he was an active band parent and a weight lifting coach for several years. He loved fishing and playing basketball. Although his boys meant everything to him, his pride and joy were his three granddaughters and his favorite title became 'PAP'.  More than anything, he loved spending time with his girls, enjoying sleepovers and fixing his special popcorn recipe for them.  He was a huge University of Kentucky fan and loved any and everything UK. He was a baptized believer and a longtime member of the Lewis Creek Pentecostal church.

Eddie is preceded in death by his parents, Judge and Laura Creech; all seven of his siblings: Maggie Brashears, Alvin Creech, Louise Stiles, Betty McClanahan, Carlos Creech, Caroline Gray, and George Creech.

Left to cherish his memory is his devoted, loving wife of fifty years, Catherine Creech; his two sons, Richie Creech and wife, Rhona, of Partridge and Eric Creech and wife, Veronica 'Gator', of Benham; three granddaughters, Devyn Creech (Paul Couch), Olivia Creech, and Callie Creech; two great-grandchildren, Lydia and Roman Couch; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, William and Mary Norris; a host of loving nieces and nephews; many extended family members, as well as many dear friends.

In accordance with Eddie's wishes, he will be cremated and a celebration of his life will take place on Sunday, February 19, 2023 at the Lewis Creek Pentecostal Church in Partridge, KY. Visitation will be from 1:00-3:00 with the Celebration of Life service beginning at 3:00. Reverend Ron Oplinger will be officiating. Following the service, a processional will travel to the U.S. Veteran's Park in Cumberland where military rites will be performed.

Tri City Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Eddie Creech.