Yes, when bad things happen its a great time to be look at how you planned and prepped to be able to handle those things and feel GOOD that you were able to manage things such that they are turning out BETTER than you planned for on average.

It seems if you are far away from this property then it might be a good idea to consider hiring the services of an experienced property manager who really could provide ongoing communication during the whole stay.  

Option A (continue renting) offers stable, inflation-protected income and potential appreciation, but managing the property may impact your retirement comfort.

My specialty is multi-family and I own/manage properties in the areas that would be of interest to you so I am very familiar with the market.

Buy you a super cheap used RV and be their "host" /park manager as a part time gig. 

I'm seeing people talk about banking/managing financials with baselane and using hemlane or rentredi for management.  

Finally- you can eliminate 95% of the troubles and risk by simply having professional and legal screening and management processes, so don't sleep on that piece. 

Owner managed, but be identical name

If you self-manage, you will probably work more hours than you did before.

Build an emergency fund to cover unexpected costs, and ensure you can manage the mortgage without STR income if needed.