Final Salute

June 25, 1944 – September 15, 2025

Rachel Gonzalez Young, 81, of Henderson Kentucky, formerly of Lexington, passed into Heaven on September 15, 2025, with her sons at her side, at St. Anthony’s Hospice Lucy Smith King Care Center.

Rachel was born in Mexico. Her parents both died when she was very young, and she was adopted in the United States. She went through the process to become a citizen.  As a child, she enjoyed gymnastics. She became a United States Marine and was the first female Marine to work on a nuclear project team. When she married, she left the Marines and had twin sons. She pursued a secretarial degree and worked for the Lexington Fire Department until she retired. At the same time, she served as a Seabee in the United States Navy Reserves, also until retirement. She was brave, beautiful, strong, and smart.

Her first marriage ended when her boys were young, and she married Raymond Porter Young, the love of her life. He passed away in 2014.

Rachel cherished her family. Separated from her siblings at a young age, she reunited with them as an adult. She was predeceased by her brother Oscar and sister Debbie, and is survived by her sister Naomi. She is also survived by her beloved sons, Charles “Dino” Abbott (Leslie) and Adrian “Wayne” Abbott. Wayne was his mother’s best friend, and was devoted to her daily care for the past few years. Rachel also leaves step children Linda and Donnie, and was predeceased by Doug. She adored her four grandchildren, Madison, John, Grant, and Reagan. She loved all of her nieces and nephews, and had many close friends.

Rachel was born Catholic and later attended Broadway Christian Church in Lexington, where she assisted with the children’s summer program, and Southland Christian Church, before moving to Henderson. She and Porter enjoyed Lexington horse racing. She loved to play video games, interact with friends on Facebook, and listen to music. She always kept a nice manicure. Rachel saw the world through her military service, and enjoyed travel throughout her life.

Cremation has been arranged. A memorial service will be held in Henderson at a later date, and Rachel’s ashes will be placed beside her husband, at the Lexington Cemetery Mausoleum. Memorial donations may be made to New Hope Animal Rescue, 526 Atkinson St., Henderson, KY 42420.