Melinda Bilbrey

Melinda West Bilbrey passed away February 5, 2024, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center. Born in Cookeville, TN, on July 23, 1954, to the late L.B. and Willie Ruth Needham West, Melinda's life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and dedication to her community.

A proud 1972 graduate of Coosa High in Rome, GA, Melinda furthered her education by earning a bachelor's degree in English from Berry College in 1976. She began her career with Employment Security in Cookeville and found her true calling in 1980 when she started working at Masters Healthcare. Over the years, she served as their Admissions Coordinator and Chaplain , among countless other roles, dedicating herself to the organization with passion and enthusiasm. Masters was not just her employer; it was her life's work.Melinda's commitment to her community was evident in her tireless work with numerous organizations, particularly those serving the aging population. She helped create the first Alzheimer's support group in the area and led it for 25 years, providing comfort and guidance to countless families. Her leadership extended to her service on the Algood Senior Citizens Board and as Chairman of their annual Quilt Festival. She also served on the Advisory Council with the Area Agency on Aging & Disability.

Her husband of 43 years, Howard Bilbrey, her daughter, Sara Bilbrey, and cousins Debe and Tommy West, who were like siblings to her, survive Melinda. Her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Darlene and Bill Wiegand, along with multiple other family members, will also hold her memory dear.

Melinda's faith was the cornerstone of her life. An active member of Hope Church (previously Trinity Assembly) in Algood since 1994, she was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. She passionately served His Kingdom. She was known as a prayer warrior who was deeply concerned with encouraging people to follow Jesus, receive healing, and transform their lives. Even while battling cancer, she participated in regular Bible studies and prayer groups to her very last days, inspiring those around her with her unwavering optimism and courage. Optimistic, courageous, and passionate are words that best describe Melinda. She lived her life with a contagious positivity that uplifted everyone she encountered. Her courage in the face of adversity, particularly during her valiant battle with cancer, inspired many. Her passion for her work, her faith, and her community was evident in everything she did. Melinda's legacy is one of love, service, and faith. She was a light to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a community that is infinitely richer for her contributions and a family that will forever cherish her memory. Melinda's life was a beautiful example of what it means to live with purpose and to leave the world a better place than one found it.

Funeral services for Melinda will be held Friday, February 9th at 11:00am at Hope Church in Algood. Interment will follow at Quarles-Burton Cemetery. Pastor Jason Yarbrough will officiate. Her family will receive friends Thursday from 4:00pm until 8:00pm and again Friday from 9:00am until service at Hope Church. Josh Wiegand, Ben Wiegand, Craig West, Bryan West, John Brantley and Jason Drew will serve as pallbearers. Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to Hope Church-Kingdom Builders, 205 W Wall St, Cookeville, TN 38506.

Hooper-Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.