Velma Roat

Friday, March 7, 2008 saw the passing of a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and sister. Velma was born October 23, 1928. She was the fourth child born to Thomas Reed Grace and Virginia Ethelynda (Raymond) Grace. She had two brothers, Raymond and Thomas and five sisters, Shirley, Marge, Edith, Jean and Barb. All have preceded her in death except for her younger sister, Barb. Her first husband, Roland Paul Anderson also preceded her in death. On July 27, 1968, she wed Bernard E. Roat. Velma has six children, Gary, Michael, Sandra, Rodney, Theresa and Tom; 17 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren (with two more on the way), all of whom will miss her very much. Velma grew up with a love of music and enjoyed playing the guitar and singing, especially country music. At family reunions, her brother Tom would join Velma in playing, while others would join in with song. They made those get-togethers fond memories for all. None can remember her without thinking of her singing “You Are My Sunshine.” Velmas true love was her God, Jehovah. She dedicated her life to him in July of 1970 and since then has done everything she could to be pleasing to him. This included spending time each week trying to talk to others about her hope for the future. She also worked tirelessly to instruct her children so they would have a strong spiritual foundation upon which to build their lives - something that is very special to all of us. Velmas other gift was making a house a home. Everyone always felt welcome, conversations flowed freely and every problem could be made better with some of her home cooking. Everyone who knew her will miss her. However, we know that in the Resurrection we will see her again - a time we all long for.