Velma Louise Carey

Velma Louise Carey, 79, of Springfield, died on Saturday, August 11, 2007. Velma was born June 29, 1928 in Selma, AL, the daughter of Priscilla Stewart and Elcanie Page. She married C. Lee Carey in Providence, KY; he preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by two brothers: Ezra Roland and Gardner Page. Velma retired from Sangamon State University as Director of Personnel. She was a member of Zion Missionary Baptist Church. She was recently named one of the women in Springfield who “Skirted Convention”. She is survived by a daughter: Carolyn (Robert) Blackwell of Springfield; two sons: Stephen (Toye) Carey of Rochester and Arthur Carey, Sr. of Springfield; six grandchildren: Tracey Meares, Nicole Florence, M.D., Deanna Blackwell, Arthur Carey, Jr., Anthony Carey and Erica Townsend; seven great-grandchildren: Rosa and Elijah Florence, Jordan, Jude and Jonas Meares-Garcia, Arthur Carey III and Amaya Townsend; two sisters: Ruthie Gaither of Providence, KY and Mattie Chaney of Birmingham, AL; a host of nieces and nephews including two nephews in Springfield, Kenneth and James Page. The family will receive friends from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 15, 2007 at Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 1601 E. Laurel, Springfield. There will be additional visitation from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. prior to the Funeral Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 16, 2007 at Zion Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Samuel W. Hale, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. The family of Velma Louise Carey is being served by Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.