Obituary: In Loving Memory of Velda L. Johnson — (Lorainne Orine Velda Emery, LOVE)

July 2, 1929 - Sept. 4, 2023

Velda was born on July 2, 1929, in Denver, Colorado to Catherine and Lorenzo Emery. From an early age, she displayed a zest for life, an insatiable curiosity, and a determination that would define her character throughout her life.

On July 22, 1944, at the age of 15, Velda married the love of her life, Perry C. Johnson, with whom she shared 37 years of blissful companionship until his passing on June 13, 1982. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of family. As a mother, Velda was a pillar of strength, imparting valuable life lessons to her three sons: Charles, John, and Kenneth. Her unwavering support, boundless patience, and sage advice were a constant source of guidance and comfort.

A doting grandmother, Velda showered her 10 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren, with love and affection, always cherishing every moment spent with them. Her eyes would light up with joy in their presence, and she was their steadfast source of wisdom and storytelling. Velda L. Johnson was known for her love of her Lord and Savior, which brought joy not only to her own life but to those who had the privilege of sharing her interests. Throughout her life, Velda touched the hearts of many with her unwavering kindness, generosity, and compassion. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone she met feel valued and loved, creating lasting bonds with friends and neighbors alike.

In her later years, Velda faced challenges with grace and resilience, serving as an inspiration to all who knew her. Her strength in the face of adversity demonstrated the true depth of her character and her unyielding determination to overcome any obstacle.

Velda has now embarked on her final journey, reuniting with her beloved Perry, her three sons, and other departed loved ones. While we grieve her loss deeply, we take comfort in knowing that her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Visitation will be held on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. at Heritage Mortuary in Prescott, Arizona.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Citizens Cemetery in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Celebration of life will be held immediately following the graveside service at Foxglenn Park, Ramada #2 in Flagstaff, Arizona.

The verb purple is defined as “belonging to or befitting a supreme ruler” - in honor of our Family Matriarch, we are requesting attendees wear purple to celebrate and honor Velda’s legacy.

Let us remember her as a woman of remarkable strength, boundless love, and enduring grace. May her spirit continue to guide and inspire us all.

Velda L. Johnson, you will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear grandmother, knowing that your love will forever surround us.

Information provided by the funeral home.