Velma

White

Velma White was born on June 2, 1943, in Mendenhall, Mississippi to the late Maeosie and ST Hayes. She was a beloved Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother, a cherished pillar of her family. She peacefully transitioned on March 17, 2026.

Velma was one of nine children and was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, T.J. (Katie Mae) Hayes, Ethel Mae Hayes (Elmer), Juanita Hayes, Ora Bell Smith (Johnnie), M.C. (Dela) Hayes and Carrie Jean Milton (Richard). She leaves to cherish her memory two surviving siblings, Henry (Thelma) Hayes and Betty (Jack) Hayes.

At an early age, Velma was baptized at Zion Hill Baptist Church, where she began her lifelong foundation of faith. She graduated from Magee High School in Magee, Mississippi, where she was known as a talented basketball player. A love that stayed with her throughout her life.

Shortly after graduation, Velma relocated to Ohio, arriving the very next day to begin a new chapter. In Toledo, she reunited with Elijah "PapaSon" White, a native of Magee, Mississippi. The two were united in marriage and they raised their four children to create a legacy of love and devotion that continues to thrive.

Velma was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She was employed at Bingham Stamping & Tool Company until their closure. And later took a position at Jeep in Toledo, Ohio, proudly contributing to the city known as the home of Jeep, where she retired in 2008.

A woman of many talents and joys, Velma was a champion bowler and an avid basketball fan who poured her love of the game into her children and family. She also enjoyed trips to the casino and found happiness in life's simple pleasures like talking with family on the phone for hours and watching with admiration, her grandchildren, eating her home cooking.

Velma was a devoted member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church since she arrived in Toledo, Ohio and she faithfully served on the Nurses Guild until her passing. Her faith was displayed in her service to others and her giving spirit. She commented often that she was grateful to God for how He cared for her and her siblings in poor rural Mississippi and that gratitude was seen by others in every season of her life even in her last moments. She loved her family well and was grateful for every gesture of love she received.

Velma could often be found sitting on her porch, receiving visitors and family. She had a hearty laugh and a gift for hospitality; making all feel welcome in her presence. She was known for her delicious meals, and her prize-winning banana pudding, which fed not only stomachs but souls.

Velma's strength and perseverance were unmatched. She was an independent, outspoken brave woman with a generous heart. She was the glue that held her family together, and her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who reflect her love, resilience, and spirit. Velma remained brave, independent, and full of life until her final days, embodying strength and peace that inspired all who knew her.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children: Michael White (Jo-Lynn), Lucinda "Cindy" White, Kalvin White (April), and Karen Pittman; seventeen grandchildren; and twenty-three great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

She also leaves her beloved niece, Kathleen (Robert) Jett, special nephew James (Glenda) Gray, and best friend Georgia (Gary) Roscoe along with her a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will forever hold her memory close.