On June 6, 2025, Warren French Jr. passed away. He was 47 years old.
Husband, son, brother, friend, father, pastor, teacher, counselor – Warren was many things to many people. As each of these, he cared deeply for others, sharing God’s endless and unconditional love for them. The son of Warren Sr. and Beth French; brother of Nicole French (Chris Goodson) and Adam French (Melissa); and uncle to Maddie, Gillian, Elle, Molly, and Mac, Warren attended Russell High School in Ashland, KY where he was a skilled athlete and a gifted student. He was also a beloved goofball and prankster.
But, beneath the surface of Warren, there were always deep waters of compassion and concern for “the least of these” that pushed Warren in his college years to study for ministry and to actually DO ministry in the world. Warren served his Haitian friends and community in Port-de-Paix, Haiti, immediately after high school (1996-1998), and he would return after graduating with a degree in preaching and Biblical studies from Kentucky Christian College in 2002.
In his second long period of work in Haiti (2002 – 2010), Warren finally won over the love of his life with his charm and wit – and with his heart – marrying Claudia J. Lee, also of Ashland, KY on August 7, 2004. While living in Haiti, Warren and Claudia were beloved by the Haitian community and their missionary colleagues. Warren helped start and administer a 4-year training college for Haitian pastors and leaders. He mentored countless young Haitian adults and inspired them with his engaging classroom teaching, his friendship, and his enormous, compassionate heart.
That same big heart eventually landed Warren behind the pulpit of Connersville Christian Church, in Cynthiana, KY. Across nearly 15 years of ministry, Warren continued to love and serve (and goof and prank) an always-growing community of people who love him. He was a dedicated student and teacher of the Bible, bringing God’s word to life. He was a compassionate and comforting pastor in his community.
Despite his serious demeanor, Warren was a child at heart, and he clearly connected with kids – his own and those in the community. Season after season, he coached his kids’ soccer and basketball teams. He loved hiking with his family. Warren laughed along with “The Simpsons” and honed his video game skills. He found joy in music, Tolkien’s writings, and movies. He appreciated trying out (and eating!) new recipes.
He met others’ needs with deep compassion. He is survived by his loving family – his wife Claudia and children Arwen (17), Leia (15), and Samuel (11). He is and will remain painfully missed by them and all who loved him, aspiring to show God’s love from big hearts, like his.
In honor of Warren’s life and legacy, we are asking for donations to support the French family during this unimaginably difficult time. All funds will go directly to Claudia and the children to support in the coming days.
Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and love for this beautiful family.
