Velma Alvertina Smith was born to Junius R. Smith Sr. and Lillie Maybell Bruton on September 15, 1959 in Charleston, West Virginia. She peacefully passed away  on  January  30, 2022 after a valiant battle with cancer, at the age of 62 , in Toledo, Ohio.

Velma, affectionately known as "Velly-Vel", was educated in the Charleston Public school district until graduating with her high school diploma from Watkin's Memorial High School in 1977.  In 1986, she moved to Ann Arbor, MI in search of more opportunity, and that's exactly what she got! Velma went on to earn a certificate for Executive Secretary from Michigan Technical Institute in 1988. Velma proudly worked  at the University of Michigan  for over 10 years  doing Collections and Administrative assistant work. After relocating a hand full of times, she settled in Toledo, OH in 2003.  There she landed a job working for David Simko, Attorney at Law,  for whom she worked happily  over 12 years and acquired her notary certification before retiring in 2021. Velma enjoyed driving and traveling, spending time with her family, listening to music and fellowshipping with God in the house of the Lord. Velma will be missed for her infectious laugh, love, friendship, and good natured, honest advice.

Velma was proceeded in death by her Father ; Junius R. Smith Sr.; Mother Lilly Maybell Bruton; and step-mother Lillian Smith. She will forever be remembered and missed by her loving Daughter's Alvertina (Nikki) Smith and Vanessa (Vernon) Jones both of Toledo,  OH; Brother's Junius (Ross) Smith Jr., Columbus, OH and Paul R. Hurst, CA: 7 grandchildren  Latroy Steward, MI ; and Aniya Smith, Sa'Bryn Jones, Si'Aungii Jones, Nayomi Jones, Aaliyah Jones, and Vernon (DJ) Jones , all of Toledo, OH; and a host of nieces and nephews; Special cousins; and friends.

Velma's family will receive friends at the Castillo Funeral Home 1757 Tremainsville Rd. Wednesday after 10:30 AM followed by A Celebration of Life Funeral Service at 11:30 AM with interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery.