Velma Matthews Utley
Mar. 2, 1933 – Oct. 19, 2021
Velma Matthews Utley, 88, of Blackstone, Virginia, died on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, from complications related to her respiratory illness. In hospice care for a year prior to her death, Velma died peacefully at home.
Velma enjoyed her work as the Deputy Clerk of the Circuit Court in Nottoway, a position she held for many years. She was a member of Nottoway Baptist Church and of Blackstone Baptist Church before that, where she was ordained as a deaconess. One of her joys was singing in the choir and she especially loved the Easter and Christmas cantatas. Many happy family times involved Velma at the piano with the family gathered around singing favorite hymns. She loved to read and also enjoyed coloring, watching home improvement shows and seeing the hummingbirds visit her flowers and feeders. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend and who will be remembered for her strength and positive attitude.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, James F. Utley, Jr.; children, Nancy Derrick (Bob), Diana Perkinson (Montie), Kathy Foote ( Willy), Jaye Utley (Tammy, children and grandchildren); grandchildren, Dave Barton, Melissa Gil, Matthew Barton, Erika Hamby, Rachel Hamby, Carla Hayes, Jessica Simon, Bonnie Davidson , Nicholas Perkinson, Sean Mulligan, Colin Mulligan, Andrew Green, Michaela Green; great grandchildren, Edwin, Danielle, Gabriella, Lucas, Gabriel, Jacob, Rhyse, Mckai, Ryker, Mystic, Aspen, Brody, Lilly, Bryce; brother, Leroy Matthews (Ann); and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and loving friends whom she considered family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gracie and Hodges Matthews; sister, Francine Daniel; son, Donnie (Perky) Perkinson; and daughter, Linda Mulligan.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to her hospice caretakers, the staff of the Crewe Medical Center, and all the friends and family who provided love and support during her illness.
A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date. Those wishing to honor her life can make a donation in her name to Nottoway Baptist Church music ministry, Blackstone VA.
I remember Velma well from my days in the choir at Blackstone Baptist. She brought much joy with her to everything she did. I will be praying for y’all.
Such a beautiful light to our world. Loved her sweet spirit, and gentle smile. She always had encouraging words when others were going through tough times and it was a blessing to receive a hand written card expressing her love! Girl, you are now singing in the Angels choir – can not wait to see you and hear your voice singing with the Angels! Love you and will miss you see you soon!! 🥰