Doris Barton Bedwell, age 88, of Galax, Virginia, passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025, in Fort Mill, South Carolina.

Mrs. Bedwell was born in Helen, West Virginia, on October 27, 1937, to Harvey and Nancy Murray Barton. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, her sister, her husbands, Kenneth Bedwell and Charley Whalen, and her daughter-in-law, Wendy Bedwell.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Susan Bedwell; daughter and son-in-law, Pam and E.J. Carico, all of Fort Mill, South Carolina; three grandchildren, Tara Bedwell Nero (Tyson), Travis Bedwell, and Emily Carico; three great-grandchildren, Alina, Colton, and Brooks; sisters-in-law Evelyn Barton of Tannersville, Virginia, and Betty Parish of Galax, Virginia; brother-in-law Bob Hughes of Ocala, FL,  and several nieces and nephews.

We are grateful to have shared life with Doris Bedwell, and we want to honor not a life lost, but a life beautifully lived.  Doris was a dedicated wife, mother, sister, and friend whose sacrificial love impacted the lives of so many.

She served for many years as the City of Galax's Director of Finance and was well known for her fiscal responsibility and warm, caring manner.  She was involved in securing many grants that positively impacted the city and helped improve its citizens' lives.

She was a member of First Baptist Church of Galax for over fifty years.  During that time, she served in a wide variety of ministries and committees.  She also worked with the Salvation Army in helping to meet physical and spiritual needs in the community.

Doris was a cherished friend and wise confidant to many over the years.  She enjoyed her bridge club, neighbors, and many special friendships.  She loved spending time at Holden Beach with the community of friends that had developed there.

The funeral service will be held on Monday, December 22nd, at 2:00 PM in the First Baptist Church of Galax with Dr. Kevin Rosenfeld officiating. There will be a private burial. The family will receive friends on Monday from 1:00 PM until the time for the funeral service at the First Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Doris' honor to either First Baptist Church of Galax or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.