Honoring Judge Tom Emberton
Thomas and Julia Emberton’s children, Tom Emberton, Jr., and Laura Emberton Owens. “I want to thank those of you from our community, our home. Dad loved this community. More than I can share with you, even though he was from Monroe County, he called this home,” related Tom, Jr. Photo | PJ Martin
By PJ Martin
Editor
The Herald-News
It may have been a cold, windy Sunday, but over 175 people came to celebrate the life of and see the unveiling of the bronze statue honoring the late Chief Court of Appeals Judge Tom Emberton (ret.).
The statue sits at the front entrance of the Tom Emberton Metcalfe County Courthouse in Edmonton. It was a time of remembrance as each speaker relayed stories celebrating the life and legacy of Judge Emberton.
The statue project has been in process for several years, and the renaming of the judicial center was authorized by the Kentucky General Assembly in the Judicial Branch biennial budget for fiscal years 2024–2026 and signed into law by the governor in April 2024.
The master of ceremonies was Metcalfe’s own Herbert Sparks, who recognized the many judicial members and elected officials in attendance. Of Judge Emberton, he said, “The spirit of humanity and decency that guided every decision he made, his influence extended far beyond the bench.”
In turn, Sparks introduced guests there to honor the occasion. Mrs. Elaine Chao and her husband, Senator Mitch McConnell, who has held office since 1985. “He’s the longest serving US Senator in our state’s history”, said Sparks.
When introducing Judge Lawrence VanMeter, “It’s an honor to welcome a leader whose commitment to justice and service in our Commonwealth exemplifies the very principles we celebrate today. The Honorable Lawrence VanMeter of Lexington is a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Kentucky,” said Sparks.
Miss Kentucky, Chapel Tinius, played My Old Kentucky Home, once in the traditional way and once in bluegrass just for Big Tom. “He taught me, and I think every single one of us what it meant to be proud of where you’re from.” Photo | PJ Martin
US Senator Mitch McConnell stated, “This endeavor is so very meaningful to all of us who knew Tom and who were touched by his life.” Photo | PJ Martin
US Congressman James Comer told his story about Judge Emberton and the great advice he always gave him. “And that advice served me well over the next, over the following 20 years. And I would always stop in when I would notice that he was in town and go in and talk to him.” Photo | PJ Martin
“Chief Judge Emberton had such an easy way about him that you immediately felt his warmth and camaraderie in his position as chief judge,” stated Lawrence VanMeter, Chief Justice of the Kentucky Supreme Court (ret.). Photo | PJ Martin
Renowned sculptor Amanda Matthews who created the statue of Tom Emberton. “Public art reflects the values and the collective identity of a community. It represents a shared history and serves as a powerful symbol of the values of the community where it resides.” Photo | PJ Martin
Judge Emberton’s grandchildren were given the honor of unveiling his statue. Photo | PJ Martin
