James E. Couch

In Loving Memory of James E. Couch, May 18, 1942/July 2, 2025 in Glasgow, Kentucky.

James E. Couch, passed away peacefully, at his home, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. 

He has proceeded in death by his parents Luther and Edith (Stone) Couch, of Lexington, KY., two brothers, Will & Ken Couch, both of Lexington, KY. 

James was born during WWII in Campton, KY and raised in Lexington, KY.  He graduated from Lafayette High School.  After graduation he joined the United States Air Force.  During a long weekend leave, he returned to Lexington and married his high school, sweetheart, Gena Faye Lewis.  They returned to his Air Force Base in Lincoln, Nebraska, where they started, their family.  During his military career, he served in the 307th Bombardment Wing Lincoln Nebraska.  His missions included the Bay of Pigs in 1961, CIA "Project Night Watch", Operation Night Watch (often referred to as the Doomsday Plane) and the Cuban Missel Crisis in 1962.  He worked as a Electromagnetic Radiation Communication Specialist during his military career.  His 6 years of service, had an enormous impact on his life & a cornerstone that lead into a career of electronics & technology.  

After his military years, James returned to Lexington with his family, where he along with his wife, started his first business, "Couch Electronics" on Porter Pike. 

He moved his family to Glasgow the summer of 1979 when he opened The Audio Center, located in Central Center Shopping Center.  He sold the 1st home computers for personal use to the general public in our area.  (Commodore 64 & Vic20) This was a gateway to our community.  At 40, he began taking classes at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky.  He earned his bachelors degrees in science, Technology, Physics, Religious Studies, with a masters in secondary education.  He taught at the Barren County Vocational School, Southern Kentucky Technical College, and retired from Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green Campus.  During his life he mentored many young people one of which was very special to him, Lin Vy.  Her children Lilly & Bailey Vy and her entire family had a special place in his heart. 

James was a member of WKU Alumni Assn., avid Ham Radio Operator for over 6 decades and a member of American Radio Relay League, connecting with both domestic & international operations. In recognition of his lifelong contribution to the Commonwealth, James was appointed Kentucky Colonel, in 1970 personally by Gov. Louie B. Nunn. 

He is survived by one sister, Patricia Hager (Bob) of Birmingham, 5 children, Kellie Couch Hopper (Bill) of Union Grove, NC., Scott Couch (Dana Riddle) of Hendersonville, TN., Gena Couch Rowe (Finance, Mark Brackett) Glasgow, KY., Chris Couch (LaCosta Massey) of Glasgow, Andy Couch (Amy Davis) of Madisonville, KY.  He is survived by 20 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren.  

The family will honor his wishes with a private memorial service, surrounded by his children and grandchildren on Saturday, July 12, 2025.

Arrangements were entrusted to Hardy & Son Funeral Home, Bowling Green Chapel.