Reverend William "Bill" Hartung

Reverend William “Bill” Aud Hartung, born in Louisville, KY on May 13, 1938, went home to be with our Lord on March 30, 2024 surrounded by his wife and family, leaving behind a legacy of service and devotion to his faith and community. Brother Bill’s life was a testament to the power of faith and compassion. Brother Bill is survived by his wife of 61 years, Priscilla “Penny” Hartung; his children Debbie (Craig) Cheatham, Tina (Greg) Howard, and David (Amy) Hartung and his grandchildren: Joe (Lina) Cheatham, Rachel Cheatham, Andrea (Evan) Karimian, Kara Howard, Sydney (Ian) Adair, and Morgan Hartung. Brother Bill is also survived by his brother Mark (Linda) Hartung, sister-in-law Willa Johnson, nieces and nephews, Whitney Hartung, Allison (Dylan) Kamm, Frank “Chip” Richterkessing, Betty (Don) Coyle and Rob (Sharon) Johnson. He is preceded in death by his parents Ferdinand and Sylvia Hartung, as well as his sister Bonnie Richterkessing and brother Jack Hartung. A man of many talents and unwavering dedication, Brother Bill’s journey began at duPont Manual High School (Louisville, KY), where he laid the foundation for a life of service. Graduating from Georgetown College (Georgetown, KY) in 1960 with a Bachelor of Arts, he continued his education at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (Louisville, KY), earning a Master of Divinity. While at Georgetown College, he was initiated as a brother of the Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity where he maintained and treasured long-lasting friendships. Throughout his life, Brother Bill served as pastor of several churches starting with Sparta Baptist Church in Sparta, KY (1960 – 1965), Carnesville Baptist Church in Carnesville, GA (1965 – 1967), First Baptist Church in Olive Hill, KY (1967 – 1971), Thornhill Baptist Church in Frankfort, KY (1971 – 1997). He was also a Director of Missions for Shelby County (KY) from 1998 to 2005. During retirement he pastored Calvary Baptist Church in Frankfort, KY (2007 – 2017). His ministry touched the lives of many, providing guidance, support, and comfort to those in need; but most importantly leading many to our Savior, Jesus Christ. Beyond the pulpit, Brother Bill’s commitment to community knew no bounds. Serving as a high school science teacher in Georgia, a substitute teacher at the Frankfort Christian Academy and served as an educator for inmates pursuing their GED. Brother Bill volunteered for the American Red Cross for over 20 years, serving as the chairman in Franklin County for blood drives and provided access to emergency shelters during natural disasters. He also served on the Juvenile Advisory Board for Franklin County Courts. He displayed exemplary leadership, advocating for the betterment of the community. In 2003, Brother Bill became the Chaplain for the Frankfort Police Department where he passionately offered spiritual guidance, support, and comfort to the officers and the community they served until his passing. His role was multifaceted, encompassing various responsibilities such as providing counseling and emotional assistance to officers facing the challenges of their profession, offering prayers and blessings, and being a trusted confidant for those in need. On January 16, 2024 the Frankfort Police Department presented him with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication and service to the department and the community. The Frankfort Police Department implemented the William A. Hartung Commitment to Service Award to the officer that demonstrates continuous dedication to the Frankfort Police Department’s mission and partnership with the Frankfort Community, the Department’s partner organizations and its residents. Brother Bill’s unwavering presence during times of crisis, his compassionate listening ear, and his ability to offer words of encouragement and hope left an indelible mark on the department and the lives of those he touched. His service as Chaplain was characterized by his genuine care for the well-being of others and his commitment to supporting law enforcement in their mission to serve and protect the community. Yet amidst his many commitments, Brother Bill made time for what mattered most: his family. He found immeasurable joy in the laughter and love shared with his grandchildren, creating many memories that will forever be treasured. Whether fishing or sharing stories on the boat, Brother Bill’s devotion to Penny and the unforgettable moments spent with their children and grandchildren exemplified the depth of his love. Brother Bill’s influence will continue to inspire others to serve their communities and live with kindness and compassion. A worship service celebrating his life will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, April 6, 2024 at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, Midway, Kentucky. Burial will follow at the Frankfort Cemetery, Frankfort, Kentucky. Visitation will be at Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Saturday beginning at 10:00 am until the service on Saturday. Serving as pallbearers will be Chief Dusty Bowman, Assistant Chief Derrick Napier, Captain Scott Tracy, Captain Scott Morgan, Sergeant Todd Smither and Detective Josh Baker. The honorary pallbearers will be his grandchildren. Those wishing to honor Brother Bill’s memory may do so with a love offering to the Frankfort Police Department: The Frankfort Police Chaplain’s Fund or Shop with a Cop, 300 W. Second Street, Frankfort, KY 40601 or The Homeplace at Midway, 101 Sexton Way, Midway, KY 40347. Arrangements are under the direction of Harrod Brothers Funeral Home & Crematory.

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Reverend William "Bill" Hartung

May 13, 1938 - March 30, 2024