Velma Byrd

Velma Lee Byrd, 87-year-old resident of Doniphan, departed this life Feb. 19, 2025, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center in Poplar Bluff, Mo. She was born Sept. 9, 1937, in Pocahontas, Ark., to the late Clarence and Elsie (Avery) Moore.

Velma was a dedicated homemaker who found joy in spending time with her family and preparing delicious meals for them. Her love for cooking led her to work as a cook at area schools and on a riverboat where she greeted the students and coworkers with a smile and hearty meal. In her spare time, Velma enjoyed fishing, often relaxing on the banks of the river or pond. She was of the Church of Christ faith.

Velma was married to Earl Roberson who preceded her in death in 1986. She later married George Byrd on Nov. 6, 1998, in Pocahontas and he survives. Also surviving are her children, Oscar (Debbie) Roberson and Merril (Danny) Ray, all of Doniphan; her grandchildren, Rhonda, Jimmy, Whitney, Peggy, Sarah, Laura, Ben, and Sam; and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Earl Roberson, Velma was preceded in death by all her siblings which include her brothers, Edward and Clifford Moore, and sisters, Carol Hollis and Wanda McQuary, and infant twins, Avie and Alvin. She was also preceded by a daughter, Donna Miller.

Visitation will be held in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, Feb. 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A graveside service will follow at 2 p.m. at Pine Cemetery with Sister Debbie Roberson officiating.