Velda Ruth (Isbell) Coley

Velda Ruth (Isbell) Coley November 26, 1951 – May 24, 2026

Velda Ruth Coley of Paducah, Texas, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the age of 74. Born Velda Ruth Isbell on November 26, 1951, she lived a life defined by devotion to her family and a vigorous, generous spirit.

Velda built a meaningful career in healthcare administration spanning more than 40 years, where her dedication and work ethic touched the lives of countless patients, families, and colleagues. Yet for all she accomplished professionally, her greatest joy had always been her family. She poured herself into raising her children and was a deeply loved presence in the lives of her 21 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. That same loving kindness extended to every animal lucky enough to cross her path. She adored her own dogs and never missed a chance to spoil the rest of the family's pets, too. Outside of time with family, Velda was happiest with a project in front of her and her hands in the work. She also loved playing the piano and sharing music with those closest to her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Phillip Coley; her parents, Jack and Dorothy Isbell; her brother, Tommy Isbell; and her sister, Peggy Montgomery.

Velda is survived by her brother, Wendell (Shirley) Isbell; her children, Roy (Jenai) Blount, Cody (Julia) Blount, Thomas (Rusti) Blount, Crystal (Erik) Alberts, Sara (Derek Moreland) Coley, Laura (Lorie) Markwood, Clint (Kristy) Coley, and Cassie (Demetrio) Conde; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose lives she shaped in ways they will carry forward always.

Visitation will be held at Zapata Funeral Home in Paducah from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Services will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Paducah at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Garden of Memories Cemetery, P.O. Box 805, Paducah, TX 79248.