Kentucky author and former poet laureate Gurney Norman dies at 88

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – A celebrated voice of Appalachia has passed away.

According to his wife, Gurney Norman — the legendary Kentucky writer and former state poet laureate — died Sunday of natural causes. He was 88 years old.

Born in Grundy, Virginia, and raised in Perry County, Norman spent much of his life telling the stories of Eastern Kentucky. His works — including Divine Right’s Trip and Kinfolks — became staples of Appalachian literature.

Norman also spent decades teaching at the University of Kentucky, where he inspired generations of young writers.

A celebration of life for Gurney Norman will be held later this year.