Ms. Betty Lou Kulisek

Betty Lou Kulisek, 81, of Barbourville, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, March 7, 2026, at Baptist Health Corbin, surrounded by the love of the family she cherished so deeply. Born on October 17, 1944, in Barbourville, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Thelma Hubbs Engle.

Betty spent many years in Chicago raising her two children before returning to Kentucky to be near her brothers and sisters. She worked alongside her family at Hillbilly’s Country Cooking and later at Lee’s in Barbourville. She lived life in her own distinctive way, finding joy in simple pleasures such as a hot cup of coffee, a cigarette, and trying her luck at the poker machines. Known for her wonderful sense of humor and a laugh that was truly contagious, she had a special way of drawing others in. Betty also loved gardening and took great pride in caring for her flowers.

Above all, Betty loved her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them—whether sharing stories, joking around, playing cards, or simply sitting together.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Geneva Ann Gray; brothers Tommy Joe, Jimmy Wayne “Bo,” and Billy Lee Engle; and a grandson-in-law, Gregory Hill.

Survivors include her loving children, Michelle Krystyniak and husband Walter of Chicago, Illinois, and Michael Kulisek and wife Jessica of Barbourville; her former spouse, Ronald Kulisek of Minnesota; a sister, Carolyn Engle of Barbourville; brothers Tim Engle and wife Angel, Eddie Engle, and Larry Engle, all of Barbourville; cherished grandchildren Nicole Abraham and husband David, Nina Hill, Danielle Krystyniak and fiancé Michael Wolf, Amanda Krystyniak, Paige Kulisek and fiancé Logan Lambo, and Michael Kulisek; great-grandchildren Ryan Hill, Abigail, Hannah, Claire, and Liam Abraham, and Dahlia Wolf; along with many other relatives and treasured friends.

Betty Lou will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her laughter, her love, and the many memories she leaves behind.