Velma June Stear

Bartonville – Velma June (Reader) Stear, 82, of Hanna City, said goodbye and peacefully entered into the arms of our loving, Heavenly Father. Born in Tuscarora on March 9, 1939, she joins those preceding her in death, her parents, John H. and Lena M. (Delicath) Reader; brother, Gerald Reader; and half-brother, Albert Heuerman.

Velma leaves behind her loving husband, Ronald V. Stear, just one month shy of the 66th wedding anniversary. She is also survived by her six children, Pam (Raul) Rodriquez, Ronald A. Stear, Connie (George) Burek, Tim (Susie) Stear, Penny (Mike) Baxter, and Jeff (Michelle) Stear. Velma was blessed with 21 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Almost to the last day, the babies in her life could bring a smile to her face.

Velma worked as an executive assistant at the Peoria Airport for many years, retiring in 1997.

She was a member of Hanna City United Methodist Church for most of her adult life and served in a variety of roles, from Sunday School Teacher to Lay Minister and Lay Speaker before health issues prevented her from continuing to serve her Lord. She enjoyed participating in services remotely during her last months of life. Velma was a member of the Red Hat Society and previously served as an officer and state manager of the Holiday Rambler Club. Over the years she helped raise seven foster children.

Velma’s visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Friday, August 13, 2021 at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. An additional visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am Saturday, August 14, 2021 at Hanna City United Methodist Church. Her funeral service will be at 11:00 am on Saturday also at the church. Interment will take place in Smithville Cemetery in rural Hanna City. Memorials may be made to her church.

Online condolences may be sent to Velma’s family at www.davison-fulton-bartonvillechapel.com.