Velva Johnston

Velva Johnston

Tupelo- Velva Lee Weaver Johnston, 94, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Baldwyn Nursing Home. Velva was born September 7, 1929, in Menyard, Arkansas, to James Andrew Weaver and Fronia Townsley Weaver. 

Velva was a woman of warmth and grace, someone who was truly easy to love. She dedicated her life to creating a nurturing home where family and friends always felt welcome, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. With a legendary green thumb, her vegetable and flower garden were a testament to her care and dedication. 

Velva married Wilburn Lee Johnston on November 29, 1947; they were married for 64 years until his passing on December 31, 2011. Together, they built a life rich in love and filled with cherished memories. 

Velva is survived by her five children, Gary Lynn Johnston of Tupelo, Reba Bailey of Belden, Brenda Kay Horton (Terry) of Shannon, Karen Parker of Guntown, and Anthony Johnston (Tonya) of Saltillo; nine grandchildren, Gerra Lynn Johnston, Mandi Herring, Rodney Oliver, Penny Clark, Stacy Hancock (Kevin), Shaun Stafford, Kasey Jenkins (Stephen), Christopher Johnston (Amber), and Onnika Chaffin (Chad); 15 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; one stepdaughter, Mary Ann Booth (Jim) of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas; three step-grandchildren, Tammy Sherman (Scott), Tonda Johnston, and Richard Johnston; and 5 step-great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Fronia Weaver; husband, Wilburn Johnston; stepson, Sammy Johnston; and three siblings, James Weaver, Mary Sue Howell; and Lillie Kiefer. 

Visitation will be 5 until 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at Pegues, Saltillo.

Services honoring her life will be 11 a.m. Thursday, August 15, 2024, at the Saltillo Chapel of Pegues, with Bro. Danny Wilburn officiating. Graveside services will follow in Doty Chapel Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Rodney Oliver, Shaun Stafford, Christopher Johnston, Stephen Jenkins, Ethan Herring, and Zach Johnston.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be shared at www.peguesfuneralhome.com.