Velva Jean Ray Bristow, age 88, of Possum Trot, Kentucky, passed away on April 24, 2026. She was born on December 30, 1937, in Paducah, Kentucky, and lived a life devoted to family with a gentle spirit that touched all who knew her.
Velva was a woman of the Baptist faith. She carried herself with grace, kindness, and quiet strength, offering steady encouragement and unwavering love to her family and friends. Her presence brought comfort, warmth, and a sense of peace and security to those around her.
After many years of faithful service, she retired from the City of Paducah as an Office Manager for the Inspection Department. She enjoyed the daily interaction with the public and contractors in the local area, many of whom she got to know on a first-name basis. She took pride in her daily work and in being of service to the community. Along with her fellow coworkers, they exemplified service above and beyond.
She found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Like walking barefoot in the grass, the sweet smell of honeysuckle and lilac, and enjoying freshly picked vegetables out of the garden. Velva loved reading and dancing. She had a deep appreciation for the everyday moments that made life meaningful.
One of the greatest expressions of her love was the “homeplace” she built alongside her husband, Jack. It continues to be a place filled with warmth, welcome, and lasting memories for their family. She especially enjoyed sitting out on her patio, taking in the beauty of nature and the peaceful surroundings she cherished so deeply.
Velva graduated from Paducah Tilghman High School after attending Franklin Junior High. In more recent years, she enjoyed staying connected with lifelong friends through the Franklin Junior High School reunions, where she celebrated shared memories and enduring friendships. She was a devoted fan of Days of Our Lives, faithfully following the stories and characters throughout the years.
Above all else, Velva loved her family deeply. She especially treasured her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense happiness into her life. She took pride in each of them and found joy in watching her family grow through the generations.
Velva is survived by her two daughters, Donna Bristow Rigdon (Steve) of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Janet Lea Bristow Cooper (John) of Possum Trot, Kentucky, one daughter-in-law Tracy S. Bristow of Possum Trot, KY; six grandchildren, Brendan Rigdon (Rachel), Jennifer L. Cooper, Micah Rigdon, Jack R. Cooper (Kristen), Nicholas Rigdon, and Jazzalyn N. Bristow; and five great-grandchildren, Christina R. Cooper, Kenzie N. Smith, Koren R. Cooper, Ember K. Cooper, and Rollie Jean Smith.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, Rollie “Jack” Bristow Jr.; her son, Larry Dale Bristow Sr.; two grandchildren, Larry Dale Bristow Jr. and Michael “Mickey” Paul Bristow; her sister, Frances Eleta Ray Spicer; her brothers, Robert L. Ray and Donald E. Ray; and her parents, Olis Clayton Ray and Virgie Lee Crawford Ray.
Her funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Bro. Jimmy Joe “JJ” Roberts of Street Soldier Ministry officiating. Burial will follow at Fooks Cemetery in Possum Trot, Kentucky.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM until the service hour of 1:00 PM on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the funeral home.
Expressions of sympathy may be made in the form of contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
