Ida Mae (Shepherd) Day, 99, was born on October 31, 1926, in Seco, Kentucky, to the late Wilson Shepherd and Mary (Lewis) Shepherd. She was a longtime resident of Lancaster, Kentucky. Ida Mae passed away on January 22, 2026, at the University of Kentucky Hospital.

Ida Mae was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arnold Day; her daughter, Patty Day; and her daughter-in-law, Margaret Day, her son-in-law AJ Johnica. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Otis Shepherd, Joe Shepherd, Bessie Day, Jimmy Shepherd, Lorraine Miller, and Minerva Hicks.

She is survived by her brother Clayton (Kim) Shepherd of Crab Orchard. She is survived by her loving children: Clinton Day of Lancaster; Helen (Gary) Tillery of Richmond; June (Les) Rector of Lancaster; and David (Danielle) Day of Lancaster. Ida Mae is also survived by her grandchildren, Chris and Lee Cornelius, Michelle Johnson, Scotty Johnica, Michael Stinnett, Zach Day, Candace Hancock, and Hannah Day, as well as ten great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Known affectionately as “Mamaw” to many, Ida Mae took the greatest pride in being a mother and grandmother. She worked many years as a seamstress at the Safeguard company in Lancaster, Ky. She was a devoted member of Maple Avenue Church of Christ and had an unshakable faith in the Lord, living her life as a true example of Christ-like love.

Her home was a place of warmth, love, and always good food. Feeding people brought her immense joy, and it was not uncommon to find her singing gospel hymns while cooking at the stove. In her free time, she enjoyed crocheting, working puzzles, and lifting her voice in song.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Spurlin Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Lancaster Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be her grandsons: Chris Cornelius, Lee Cornelius, Scotty Johnica, Michael Stinnett, Zach Day, and Daniel Correll. Honorary pallbearers will be her remaining grandchildren.

The world is a better place because Mamaw was in it. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her—and to know her was truly to love her.