Former Judge Lewis Paisley dies at 80
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The Kentucky legal community is remembering a well-respected figure known for his fairness, intellect, and courage.
According to his obituary, former Judge Lewis Grant Paisley of Lexington passed away on October 27 from complications of Parkinson’s disease. He was 80 years old.
Paisley served more than 25 years on the bench, including time on the Fayette Circuit Court and the Kentucky Court of Appeals. He’s best remembered for a 1986 ruling striking down a state law that criminalized same-sex relationships — a decision colleagues said showed “true courage.”
A Vietnam veteran and lifelong advocate for justice, Judge Paisley was admired for his kindness, integrity, and dedication to the rule of law.
A celebration of his life will be held Saturday at 1 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington.
