Underwood, Mrs. Louise Gayheart -age 72, passed away Monday, June 23 in Louisville, Kentucky. She was born at Dwarf, Kentucky, and was a member of the Dwarf Baptist Church. She was the former head bookkeeper for Heleringers Furniture. Louise was also president of the Concerned Families of Hazelwood and liaison between State Government and Hazelwood ICF/MR. Over the years she had worked closely with five governors and earned the respect of newly elected officials. Many times she has pulled strings to halt legislation that would have undermined quality of life for people with disabilities. As special projects director and “the voice” of Hazelwood Center, she has helped transform Kentucky into a national leader in mental retardation services. Dr. Henry Hood, director of the Underwood and Lee Clinic, said “I have never met anyone that holds a candle to Louise Underwood.” The Velvet Hammer, according to Dr. Hood, still makes politicians “quake in their boots.” He asked her how she swayed them, year after year, and she answered: “Simply, you just don’t let up.” Louise was preceded in death by her parents: Chester Arthur and Mollie Everage Gayheart, and brothers: Bill and Dickie Gayheart. She leaves surviving the following relatives: loving husband of 47 years: Samuel H. Underwood of Louisville, KY, only sister: Juanita Gayheart Duff of Air Port Gardens, KY; nieces: Barbara Ann Dixon of Louisville, KY, Michelle Dixon of Louisville, KY, Natasha Dixon Marlow & Todd of Louisville, KY, Donna Kaye Gayheart of Lotts Creek, KY, nephews: Elijah “Eli” Dixon of Louisville, KY, Jack Gayheart & Judy of Xenia, OH, William Brook Miller of Lexington, KY, including Ray Underwood of Louisville, KY, special friend: Leroy Parnell of Louisville, KY, best friend: Kathleen Miller of Vest, KY, and of course her beloved dog: Ranger. Funeral services for Mrs. Louise Gayheart Underwood were held Saturday, June 28 at the Engle-Walker Funeral Home at 301 East Main St.-Hazard, KY with Rev. Larry N. Keaton officiating. Burial followed at the Engle Cemetery in Trace Branch, KY, she was be buried beside her parents. Visitation was Wednesday, June 25 at the Ratterman & Sons Funeral Home at 2114 West Market St. Louisville, KY, and Friday, June 27 at the Engle Walker Funeral Home in Hazard, KY. The following served as pallbearers: Kelly Boggs, Dr. Henry Hood, Farris William, Bill Dixon, Todd Marlow, Dr. Matt Holder and Leroy Parnell.   Source: Hazard Herald  02 July 2008