Judy Dale Brookshire

Judy Dale Brookshire was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and proud great-grandmother who passed away peacefully on January 20th, at the age of 73, surrounded by her family.

Born on February 26th, 1952. Judy lived a life defined by love, generosity, and service to others. To know her was to be fed - not just with home-cooked meals, but with kindness, warmth, and a genuine sense of welcome. Her love language was cooking, and no one ever left her presence hungry.

Judy was the proud owner of J’s County Kitchen, where she shared her passion for food and community. The restaurant was more than a business - it was a gathering place, a second home to many, and a reflection of her caring spirit. Whether serving longtime customers or first-time visitors, she treated everyone like family.

One of her most treasured traditions was making homemade tamales, a labor of love she carried on for many years. This tradition brought generations together and became a symbol of her dedication, hard work, and deep-rooted family values. The recipes, memories, and laughter shared in her kitchen will live on long after her passing.

She shared a loving marriage with her husband, Donnie Brookshire, for 48 years, and together they built a life centered on family. Her greatest pride and joy were her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

She is survived by her children, Bobby (Julie) Brookshire of Boaz, KY, Donna (Roger) Brookshire of Paducah, KY, Ricky (Keri) Brookshire of Boaz, KY, Jason (Hollie) Brookshire of Paducah, KY; her grandchildren, Alex (Matt) Stevenson, Dylan (Kaylee) Brookshire, Alyssa (Max) Hughes, Charley (Logan) Gaboriault, Hanna (Zach) McIntosh, Abbi Brookshire, Jenna Brookshire, Tate (Kisten) Brookshire, Bradyn Sanderson, Michael Brookshire, Reed Brookshire; her great-grandchildren, Kayson Gaboriault, Brooks Stevenson, Colson Brookshire, Mallory Hughes, Theron Brookshire; and many extended family members and friends who loved her deeply. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Donnie Brookshire; her siblings, three sisters, Pat Jones, Jean Hobbs, and Delores Collier, and two brothers, Jimmy Venters and Terry Baker; parents, Luther Venters and Thelma Brower Venters Baker.
 
A celebration of Judy’s life will be held on Thursday, January 22nd at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner and Orr Funeral Home, 3745 Old US Hwy 45 S, Paducah, KY 42003. Visitation will be held at 11:30 AM through 2:30 PM, with service being held at 2:30 PM with Bro. Jeff Russell and Tommy Moore officiating. Burial will follow at Houser Grove Church of Christ Cemetery. 

The family invites all who knew her to remember her not with sadness alone, but with stories shared, meals enjoyed, and love given freely - just as she lived her life.

Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.