Velma Ruth Perry

Velma Ruth Perry (Granny), daughter of the late James and Carrie Leary, was born on June 30, 1938 in Bertie County, NC.

She was employed at Durham Drapery for several years, and later worked for Liggett and Myers Tobacco Company. She retired from Duke University Hospital where she worked for over 20 years. During her work history, she received several service awards and certificates for her loyal service. Velma (Granny) was a mother to many. She loved flowers and eating "Nilla" wafers while sitting on her porch. She could tell the difference if someone gave her off-brand vanilla wafers. Granny loved to cook and she did it "very well." There was always a Sunday meal and singing after church. Her favorite song was " Jesus Can Work It Out."

Velma gave her life to Christ at an early age. She joined Morehead Avenue Baptist Church, later becoming a member of Rogers Grove Missionary Baptist Church where she served on the Usher Board and Food Service ministry faithfully for many years. Later in life, Granny joined Full Gospel of Christ Ministry under the leadership of Pastor Jane W. Mitchell where she attended until her health declined.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents, James and Carrie Leary; one daughter, Amy Darise Harrell; three sisters, Geneva Leary, Mollie Lane, Shirley Leary; and one brother, James Leary, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories: three children, Mable Sanders (Lawrence), Florine Harrell-Williams (Michael) of Durham, NC and Irvin Lee Harrell (Vanessa) of Southaven, MS; three sisters, Rather Mae Leary, Doris Leary of Colerain, NC, Mary Evora Wright (John), Meriden, CT; six grandchildren, TaChaka Carter (SaDawn), Cory Harrell (Roshanna), Danielle Deberry (Ashante), Alisha Evans (Travis), Shatora Kithcart, Pastor Michael W. Kithcart, Sr. (Brenda); twelve great grandchildren, Shauntego Parker, Jr., Omari Harrell, Malachi Harrell, Jaquan Evans Jalysha Evans, Destinee Royster, Diamond Royster, Juelz Lunsford, Londer Roberson, Michael Kithcart, Jr., Noah Kithcart, Ximora-Grace Kithcart; and two great, great grandchildren, Summer Green and Mariah Parker.