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Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Mrs. Velma J. Whitlow Smyre

8/27/1950 - 5/11/2026

Text:

Obituary For Mrs. Velma J. Whitlow Smyre

Mrs. Velma Jean Whitlow Smyre, 75, of Portsmouth, VA, formerly of Beckley, WV, peacefully entered into eternal rest surrounded by her family Monday, May 11, 2026, and was reunited with her beloved parents, cherished nephew, and the many family members and dear friends she longed to see again after defeating breast cancer twice, and courageously battling Alzheimer’s disease. While her earthly journey has ended, her family finds peace and comfort in knowing that she entered Heaven with her mind restored, her body made whole, and undoubtedly wearing the fanciest pair of high heels Heaven has ever seen.

Born in Skelton, WV, Velma was the beloved daughter of the late Raymond “June” Whitlow, Jr. and Virginia “Loverine” Adams Whitlow. Velma was a member of Morning Star Baptist Church, and lived a life rooted in faith, kindness, grace, and compassion. She possessed a spirit that naturally drew people to her, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her family can sincerely say that they never encountered anyone who spoke negatively of her—a true testament to the love, respect, and admiration she inspired throughout her life.
Velma was a proud member of the first graduating class of the new Woodrow Wilson High School in 1968. Following graduation, she began working in her community at Appalachian Regional Hospital and E.M. Payne’s before pursuing her true calling in education. She attended Bluefield State College, where she majored in Education and proudly became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. From that moment forward, “Pink and Green” became not just colors, but a lifelong part of her identity and pride. She later continued her educational journey through the West Virginia College of Graduate Studies (C.O.G.S.), earning her Master’s +45.

Velma devoted more than 30 years to shaping young minds and touching countless lives as an educator. She began her teaching career in Mercer County, West Virginia, before continuing her work in Raleigh County, where she faithfully served students at Mabscott Elementary School and Park Middle School. Teaching was never simply a profession to Velma—it was a ministry of love, patience, encouragement, and purpose.

Of all her accomplishments, nothing brought Velma greater joy than being a mother. In December 1981, she welcomed her first daughter, Tiffany Nicole, and 3 years later was blessed with a second daughter, Tara Jenai, whose lively spirit kept everyone smiling and always “on their toes.” Velma often said her daughters were among God’s greatest gifts, and she proudly shared their accomplishments and stories with anyone who would listen.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved nephew, Derek Lamont Dixon; brother in-law, Reggie Coleman; sister-in-law, Janet Smyre; and her treasured “sister friends.”

Left to cherish her beautiful memory are her devoted daughters, Tiffany Smyre and Tara Landen; their father, Jerome Smyre; her son-in-law, best friend, and self-proclaimed junk food dealer, Brian Landen; her two adored granddaughters with paws, Coco and Eva; her loving sister, Ann Coleman; her sister-best friend, Elaine Davis; her lifelong buddy, Kathy Zaferatos; her “little sister,” Kenney Mae Warner; brothers-in-law, Roger Smyre, Robert Smyre (Frances), and Keith Smyre; sister-in-law, Velma Armstead; the “Camp Girls”; numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews; her “adopted” daughter, Lisa Hills Williams; her devoted caretaker, Naffisatou Dao “Ms. D”; and the compassionate care teams from the University of Virginia Memory Care Unit and Wings Over Virginia Hospice.

Though Alzheimer’s slowly stole many memories, it could never diminish the love Velma gave so freely throughout her life. Her legacy of faith, elegance, laughter, strength, education, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her family rejoices in knowing that she is finally at peace, resting safely in the arms of the Lord.

Homegoing services will be 12:00PM Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Heart of God Ministries, 1703 S. Kanawha St. Beckley. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Prosperity.

Friends may visit with the family 90 minutes prior.

In honor of Velma’s lifelong love for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the family kindly requests that those attending wear a touch of pink or green in celebration of her beautiful life and enduring AKA spirit.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Velma’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association 1060 La Avenida St Mountain View, CA 94043

Breast Cancer Research Foundation 28 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036

University of Virginia Memory Care Unit.1221 Lee Street Fourth Floor Charlottesville, VA 22908.

“Well done, thy good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

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Condolences

  • 05/20/2026

    Karen & Bill Goodwin

    So sorry to hear of Velma's passing. She was such an excellent teacher to my boys at Mabscott Elementary School. I valued her as a friend and my boys always valued her as a teacher even after they left Mabscott. She will be missed. Karen Goodwin

  • 05/19/2026

    Charlene Anderson Hairston

    Velma's memory is a gift to all of us who have known her on any level. Velma's endearing personality is long lasting.🙏🏽💜

  • 05/19/2026

    Larry Hoskins

  • 05/19/2026

    Wayne Bennett

    Velma was a tough, but loving and caring teacher. She loved to laugh and her smile was very contagious.Prayers for her Family.

  • 05/16/2026

    Linda Carter penn

    Jerome and family praying for you and your family during this difficult time in your lives. Much love Linda Carter Penn your lives. Much love. Linda carter penn

  • 05/16/2026

    Brenda Price

    My condolences goes out to the Smyre and Adams family during this time of their loss. May God give you the strength to endure and continue to surround his angles around the family and those who knew her. Prayers and love. Brenda Price

  • 05/15/2026

    Emilee Hicks-Hinzman

    My prayers for comfort to the family. Velma was my favorite teacher, some of my favorite elementary school memories were in her 4th grade class. May she RIP.

  • 05/15/2026

    Eileen and Clifford

    To the family. We send our heartfelt prayers and condolences. Sincerely Clifford and Eileen Washington

  • 05/15/2026

    Wilbert and Doris Boyden McCormick

    Wilbert and I extend our deepest sympathy to this family. Velma always had the prettiest smile and she was always so pleasant. We are asking God to give each family member great memories of all the good times the family shared with Velma and her precious daughters. May God be with each of you. Wilbert and Doris Boyden-McCormick

  • 05/15/2026

    Christine Billingsley

    My deepest condolences to The Smyre Family and her sister: Darlene Coleman. Praying God's Comfort, Cousin Christine Billingsley Avondale, Az 85392

  • 05/14/2026

    Thomas Coleman

    Velma was a sweet, loving, and beautiful person. I will miss her presence on this earth May she rest in peace

  • 05/13/2026

    William (Billy) Sawyers

    I remember so many wonderful moments we shared during our Stratton days. Velma is and will continue to be missed. Warm condolences to her family

  • 05/13/2026

    Elaine Sawyers Davis

    My sincere Condolences go out to the family! I have nothing but fond memories of my longtime friend, Velma!! I will miss our conversations, and our friendship! My only comfort is in knowing she's in a much better place where I will one day join her!

  • 05/12/2026

    Eddiena Schoolfield

    My heart goes out to everyone who loved Velma. She will be deeply missed. I'm praying for each of you.

  • 05/12/2026

    Kathy Quesenberry

    I have so many wonderful memories of my dear friend! We always had the best time when we were together! I will miss you so much!

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