She was born in Sutton, West Virginia, the daughter of the late Luther and Edna Perrine Dean. Velma is the beloved wife of over 57 years to Bill; loving mother of Victoria (Tony) White (deceased), Junior (Debbie) Radcliff, Nancy Radcliff and Christina Harris; cherished grandmother of Priscilla (Miguel) Feliciano, Tyler Radcliff (Taylor Miller), Tina Hunter (Sean Sutphin), Alon Robinson Jr., Khalil Warfield and great-grandmother of Gabriel Feliciano, Teagan Radcliff, Chase Leach, Wednesday Sutphin and Wyatt Sutphin; dear sister of the late Kenneth Dean, Buddy Dean Garland Dean, Warren Dean and Iva Mae Evans and adored aunt of many.
She was the heart of our family — a quiet, steady presence whose love spoke loudest in her actions. Devoted wife, caring mother, and proud grandmother, she lived for her family. Her joy was found in the laughter of her children, the stories shared at family gatherings, and the blooms she nurtured in her garden.
Humble and reserved, she never sought the spotlight, yet she shone brightly in the lives of all who knew her. Her gentle strength, grace, and unwavering love made her the ideal role model — a true matriarch in every sense.
She leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, patience, and simple beauty — just like the flowers she so lovingly grew.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 11AM at Craciun Berry Funeral Home, 7200 Detroit Avenue, Cleveland, where the family will receive friends on Saturday from 11AM until the time of service. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Brook Park.
