Velma Jean Bilbrey, age 83, of Crossville, Tennessee, passed away on November 19, 2025, at Crossville Medical Center.

Velma was born on November 21, 1941, to the late William Marshall and Hassie Eldridge Swallows. She later married the love of her life, Jackie Bilbrey, and together they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage—years filled with devotion, partnership, and enduring love.

Funeral services for Mrs. Bilbrey will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Speck Funeral Home with Bro. Ricky Dixon officiating. Burial will follow in Harris Chapel Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services.

Velma spent many years working as a sewing machine operator, a craft she took great pride in. She loved working with fabrics and found joy in the detail and skill her work required. Outside of her profession, Velma was happiest in the fresh air. She enjoyed tending to her flowers, mowing, and simply being outdoors, where she found peace and contentment.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Kenneth Swallows; and her sisters, Sue Purdue and Earline Dixon.

Velma is survived by her loving husband, Jackie Bilbrey; her brother, William "Bud" Swallows, and his wife Janie of Livingston; and a host of nieces and nephews who cherished her dearly. Her gentle spirit, steady kindness, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered always.

Velma was a light to everyone she was around and will be missed.