Velma L. Morrow

Velma Lee Morrow was born on September 11th, 1950, to Johnny and Willie Mae Smith, who preceded her in death. Velma was also preceded in death by her brothers, Johnny Smith Jr., Rueben Smith, and Leroy Smith, and her sister, Jessie Ann Smith. Velma Passed on March 25th, surrounded by her children and life partner Alvin Frye.

She accepted Christ at an early age at Pleasant View Baptist Church, their family church home. Velma Graduated from Central High School in 1968 and attended Penn Valley Community College, where she met and married James Whitney Brown. From that union, they had five children: Alonzo Diego, Tezna V., Sonterio R., Lamora E., and Javell M. Later in life, she married Wayne E. Morrow, who preceded her in death.

Velma was a computer operator for the United States Department of Agriculture for 47 years. She received recognition for 40 years of service in the Government of the United States of America. She loved spending time with her family, dining out, and shopping with her daughter Lamora. She enjoyed going to the casino, watching the Kansas City Chiefs, and wearing her favorite red lipstick.

Velma rekindled her relationship with her long-time friend Alvin Frye, who was her helpmate during her cancer treatment and who was by her side with her children as she received her wings to Heaven.

Velma is survived by her children, Alonzo Diego, Maple Grove, Minnesota; Tezna V. Harris (Damon), Converse, TX; Sonterio R. Brown (LaShaunda), Belton, MO.; Lamora E. Tyree (Terrance), Lee Summit, MO., and Javell M Brown, Grandview, MO, as well as her sisters Dora Maples and Mary Dotson, both of Kansas City, MO. She also leaves behind her life partner Alvin Frye, Overland Park, Kansas, 19 grandchildren, and a host of family and friends. Today, we remember her with love and affection.