Velma Ora Matthews transitioned peacefully to her heavenly home, Saturday, December 20, 2025 at Timberland Ridge. She was born January 22, 1934 to the late James Curtis Matthews and Nora (Starks) Matthews in Waynesburg, Ohio.

Velma had a very close relationship with her two oldest sisters, Evelyn DeGraffinreed and Betty Butts, along with her cousins from both sides of the Matthews and Starks families. Velma did not have any children of her own, but she loved, enjoyed and help raise her nieces and nephews.

Velma loved the Lord. Every chance she had, she gave him praise, and she shared with everyone she met. She did not want anyone to be lost, so she shared God’s word to them. Velma was very involved and active with her church family at Macedonia Baptist until her health declined.

The staff at The Merriman and Timberland Ridge spoke highly of Velma. Velma was a RN. She made sure the staff did their jobs correctly.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Evelyn (Hoover) DeGraffinreed and Betty (Eld. Lemon Jr.) Butts; nieces Anne DeGraffinreed and Helen DeGraffinreed; nephew, Pastor Dennis (Jewrusha) Butts, Sr.

She leaves to celebrate her life, love and legacy nieces, Brenda Wilson, Otelia (Joe) Simmons; nephews Curtis (Michelle) Butts, David DeGraffinred, Joe DeGraffinreed, Jeff DeGraffinreed and Paul DeGraffinreed; great nieces, great nephews, cousins on the Matthews, Starks side and the host of other family and friends.