Mrs Velma C. Southern

The Life of Velma Carlyne Southern June 28, 1927 – January 17, 2017 Velma Carlyne Holmes was born to Richard and Flossie (Cabel) Holmes on June 28, 1927. She was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. Velma attended local schools, Bolton Elementary and Rawlings Jr. High. She graduated from John Hay High School in 1946. While attending John Hay, Velma developed an interest in art. She also started working part-time as a nurse’s aide at University Hospital. After graduating high school, Velma enrolled at The Cleveland Institute of Art where she studied painting and sculpture for several years. One of her instructors, Paul Travis (a local artist whose teaching and works garnered worldwide acclamation), inspired her so that she continued creating and collecting art for her entire adult life. She continued her study of art at Cuyahoga Community College for many years. Velma married James Southern at an early age and from this union (which lasted nearly 70 years) they had two children, Warren and Jan. Velma continued her work at University Hospital becoming a LPN. She became a real estate agent in the late 60’s, which she worked for several years. She was an avid fan of fashion, a gifted seamstress and tailor. Velma was a founding member of the Sew Sew Club (community service and socializing). They gave clothing to groups such as battered women and made quilts for assisted living retirees. Velma was baptized and became a Christian at an early age. Her and James became a member of St. Philip Lutheran Church 62 years ago. They were introduced to St. Philip Lutheran Church by Roscoe Southern (James’ brother) and his wife Joann. Velma became a cub scout den mother for Troop 478 during the 60’s. She was a volunteer with the Walther League (Lutheran Youth Group). She also was a Brownie and Girl Scout Leader. Velma served on the Church Kitchen Committee, as well as spearheaded the publishing of cookbooks (a fundraiser) featuring recipes of the congregation. Later Velma went to work for the Cleveland Board of Education as an administrative assistant; working at various schools, including Harry E. Davis Jr. High and East High School. She retired in 1987; however, she continued to work for several years as a substitute. During Velma’s retirement, she continued in her many interests. Her paintings were displayed in many art shows. Her interests also included gardening, interior design, and traveling. Her and her daughter, Jan, traveled to nearly every state in America. She loved to go on cruises. Velma visited many Caribbean Islands, as well as Venezuela and Puerto Rico, Mexico. Velma is one of three children preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Flossie Holmes; two brothers, Marvin E. Holmes, Sr., and Richard A. Holmes; and husband, James A. Southern. Velma’s leaves to cherish her memory, one daughter, Jan A. Southern; one son, Warren M. Southern (Rita), 7 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren, and a host of family and friends.

Mrs Velma C. Southern

June 28, 1927 - January 17, 2017