Velva Kennedy Blayney Yeomans, beloved sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025-on her 92nd birthday. Born April 16, 1933, in Trigg County, Kentucky, to Harvie Amos and John Albert Kennedy, Velva lived a life of service, grace, and unwavering commitment to her community.
A graduate of Draughon’s Business College in Paducah, Velva began a long and dedicated career with Carbide & Carbon Chemicals, which later became Martin Marietta. She retired after an impressive 41 years of service, earning the admiration and respect of her colleagues.
Velva's love for her community extended well beyond her professional life. A devoted member of Westminster Presbyterian Church for 52 years, she served as Church Moderator of Presbyterian Women, a governing body member, and sang in the choir until 2016, when the church roll was transferred to First Presbyterian Church of Paducah.
Since 1988, Velva proudly served as an original member of the Paducah Ambassadors, where she warmly welcomed visitors to the city at conventions, celebrations, and special events. Her community spirit and volunteerism were recognized with the prestigious titles of Kentucky Colonel and Duchess of Paducah-honors she deeply cherished.
A passionate golfer, Velva was a long-time member of the Rolling Hills Country Club and the Ladies Golf Association. She also gave generously of her time to the American Cancer Society, serving as a board member and volunteering for Relay for Life for many years.
Velva's philanthropic heart shone through her involvement in the Epsilon Sigma Alpha social sorority, where she dedicated countless hours to raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. She was a tireless supporter, volunteering at 19 local St. Jude Dream Homes and always lending her energy and enthusiasm to causes she believed in.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband Joseph Blayney; her second husband, Mick Yeomans; her brothers Albert (Ava) Kennedy and Raymond Kennedy; her sisters Marie (Rex) Francis, Mary (Billy) Smalley, and Norma (Maxie) Cotton; and nephews Doug Kennedy, Jerry Cotton, Leroy Kennedy, Greg Francis, and Michael Smalley.
Velva is survived by her brother Elias “Buddy” Kennedy, sister Faye (Billy) Fox, and a loving extended family of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cherished friends. Among them are Larry (Dawn) Francis, Stan (Debbie) Kennedy, Debbie (Royce) King, Randy (Uson) Francis, Gerald (Stephanie) Cotton, Rhonda (Chalice) Stout, Ray (Brenda) Cotton, Michael (Janet) Denman, Molly (Dan) Rouns, Judy Hauser, Anne Blayney, Janie Smalley, Mark (Dana) Blayney, Kevin (Kathy) Fox, Stuart Kennedy, Lisa (Robin) Roberts, Linda (John) Bogert, Cherie Sherrill, Deanna (Keith) Porterfield, and Pam (Todd) Truitt. She also held a special place in her heart for the Hannan family-Janet, Ed, Graham, Sarah, and Eddie.
Velva’s legacy is one of warmth, generosity, and community spirit. Her smile, sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 P.M. Monday, April 21, 2025 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Rev. Lex Allum officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Kenton Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M.- 1:00 P.M. Monday, April 21, 2025 at the funeral home.
Expressions of sympathy may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Easter Seals West Kentucky, 1908 N. 14th St. Paducah, KY 42001.
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