In Remembrance of Aunt Velma 
Delivered at Memorial Mass  
Sept 14, 2012

Velma Hughes came into the world into the arms of two wonderful parents, Earl and Mildred Russell. She had three sisters, Margret, Darlene, and Ruth; and two brothers, Charles and Jack. Grandma and Grandpa passed onto each of their children two distinct Russell traits --- traits I am sure family members are familiar with ---Irish Grit and an Irish Grin! And Velma was no exception.  

Her GRIT was seen clearly in her devotion to her profession as a psychiatric nurse; to her husband, Ernie; and to her three children, John, Dan, and Terry.   We witnessed Velma's fortitude in a special way, in her deep love and dedication for her beautiful special girl, Terry Lee. Together, the two of them lived a wonderful life of love and stability. Velma provided all that she could for Terry including trips to the gardens on the Oregon Coast, a fine Catholic education, the ability to experience the dignity of work, a regular life of prayer (especially Mass and the rosary),  and airplane trips to Kentucky to visit family. 

Another gift that Velma possesses was her GRIN and remarkable gift of hospitality.  Her home was opened to all of us, and I am sure that everyone who knew her has a fond memory of Velma's opened door. When I think of Aunt Velma's home, I remember a colorful, perfectly set Thanksgiving table (with no detail overlooked), her children and grandchildren chatting away, and The Lawrence Welk show playing on Saturday night.

Nothing outshone Velma's attention to detail more than her bright beautiful smile. When Velma smiled her whole face lit up.  A favored family photo of Velma is of her sitting with her three sisters - all of them with great big smiles. This image personifies the sweet familiar song, "When Irish Eyes are Smiling":

"When Irish eyes are smiling, sure, 
'tis  like the morn in Spring. In the lilt of Irish laughter, you can hear the angels sing. When Irish hearts are happy, all the world seems bright and gay. And when Irish eyes are smiling, sure, they steal your heart a way."

Velma stole each of our hearts away and so, we are here to attest to the merits of her life, to celebrate her legacy, and to thank the Good Lord for sharing her with us.  

This short synopsis cannot possibly capture the beauty and detail of Velma's life, but perhaps it will spark our memory of the good times, inspire us to aim for the finer things in life, encourage us to live our life with a little more GRIT and a lot more Irish GRIN, and to say a prayer for her soul: 

Eternal rest, grant HER O Lord, and 
Let perpetual light shine upon HER. 
May the soul of our dear Velma, 
Through the mercy of God, rest in peace. AMEN

The best Mother in law a girl could have. I enjoy the time I had with you and Terry. The phone calls we shared. Thank you for the son we share. 
God chose a wonder person. 
God and Terry Angels will watch over her 
Love 
Carol

Grandma Hughes, I will always treasure the great memories made spending my summers as a child with you and Aunt Terry. So much of what I learned from you over the years has had a great impact on who I am today. You will forever live on in my heart. Eric

Aunt Velma was never without a smile and a hug to whoever needed it. She was one of the most caring people I've known, and I feel blessed to have spent time with her. She and her family are always in my prayers. Much love, Bailey

My sister Velma was both a spiritual person and a loving servant to all she could help. She mothered her developmentally disabled daughter for 60 years, even to the day of her death. All friends and families keep her and her family in your prayers. Ruth

Aunt Velma Have some very fond memories of spending the day with you and Terry when we were out there in 09.Was hopeing to see you this spring when Linda retires but I guess it wasn"t to be.Sure going to miss you.Love You Dave and Linda Needham

Aunt Velma,  Some of my earliest and best memories growing up were the times you and Uncle Ernie, John, Terry, and Dan visited us in Lincoln Park.  It was nothing short of a Holiday!  Your enthusiasm and love made each of us feel special.  I know how much my mom treasured her time with you. I am so glad I was able to make a few trip to Oregon after you left Michigan. And your love was the same.  You will be sooo missed.  LOVE,  Lorretta

OBITUARY

Velma Hughes

28 February, 1925 – 10 September, 2012

Howell, Edwards, Doerksen with Rigdon-Ransom Funeral Directors

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