Velma Louise Durham went to be with her Lord and Savior on October 1, 2026.

Velma was born August 27, 1943, to Albert and Esther Stapleton Wallace. As one of ten children, she cherished a lifelong closeness with her siblings. She left home at a young age to marry the love of her life, Alton. Velma’s legacy is one of steadfast faith in her Lord, a rare and enduring devotion to her husband of sixty-seven years, and a lifetime of selfless dedication to her family.

Velma was a member of First Baptist Church, Maud, Texas, where she faithfully served in numerous ministries throughout the years, including nursing home outreach, the food pantry, and as a Sunday school teacher. Serving in her church home was an opportunity for Velma to help others see the love of Christ. Yet her greatest opportunity to point others to His saving grace was through the way she lived her life—in her business, in how she handled affliction, and in the love she showered upon family, friends, and even strangers.

Velma enjoyed many years as a hair stylist. She loved her clients and was always eager to listen to their problems, celebrate their accomplishments, and share in the joys of their lives. After closing her business, Velma became Alton’s right-hand assistant in his business until he, too, retired. Their shared love of woodworking allowed them to continue their entrepreneurial spirits, gave Velma an opportunity to use her creativity, and introduced them to many new friends at various trade events.

Throughout the years, Velma also enjoyed traveling, painting, cooking, and, most of all, spending time with her family.

Velma’s family was her pride and joy. No matter what she was facing, seeing her grandchildren made her world a little brighter. She is survived by her four daughters, Anita Peek (Jim), Yolanda Hawkins (Greg), Tonya Crabtree (Aron), and Sonya McBride (Johnny); her grandchildren, Cody Peek (Natalie), Natalie Haywood (Josh), Micah Hawkins (Heather), Caleb Hawkins (Kristin), Haley Keener (Adrian), Kelsey Smith (Corey), Katlynn Pistolis (Zac), Baylee Smith (Josiah), and Dalton McBride (Madison); and 18 great-grandchildren: Elynn Peek, Owen Peek, Charlie Haywood, Jimmie Haywood, Hannah Hawkins, Jordan Hawkins, Jack Hawkins, Cruz Keener, Sully Keener, Ryker Smith, Bryce Smith, Harris Smith, Emie Jo Smith, Levvy Lou Pistolis, Jameson Smith, Brecken Smith, Daniel McBride, and March McBride.

She is also survived by her brothers, Al, Johnny (Anita), and Don (Theresa) Stapleton; her sister, Wanda Clark; and sister-in-law, Ava Sue Adcock; and a host of nieces, nephews, and close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepfather, “Booster” Wallace; and her siblings, Connie, Billy, Richard, Margaret Divina, and Sarah Stapleton, as well as a special sister-in-law, Rose Stapleton.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff at Texarkana Hospice and to her morning caregiver, Jessica Clinton. Their compassion and care were such a blessing to Velma and her family during this difficult transition.

Visitation will be held at 1PM on Saturday, October 3, and a Celebration of Life will begin at 2PM at First Baptist Church, Maud, TX.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Maud, Texas, or Texarkana Hospice.

Velma Durham

August 27, 1943 - October 01, 2026

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