Oma Velma Perry Miles, a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend to all; transitioned to her eternal home on Friday, March 26, 2021. Velma, the youngest child, of the late J.C. (Buster) and Oma Perry was born August 27, 1954 in Valdosta, Georgia.

At an early age, she professed her faith in Jesus Christ and became a lifelong member of Francis Lake A.M.E. Church. She faithfully served her church in leadership roles on the Board of Trustees, the Young Peoples Department, the Sunday School, the Lay Organization and as a Youth Bible Study teacher. She was a devoted member of the A.M.E. Missionary Society on the local, District and Conference levels. Velma was one of the founding members of the South Lowndes County VBS Association.

Velma graduated from Lowndes County High School, and received her Bachelor and Master's degree in Elementary Education as well as an Education Specialist degree from Valdosta State University. Velma retired from Lowndes County Schools with 34 years of service as a teacher and a social worker. She was also an adjunct professor of African American Studies at Valdosta State University. She was a founding member of Camp RELITSO; which provided community outreach and summer school programs for countless children; a charter member of the Whole Way House of Valdosta. Her service to the community included membership and leadership roles in several organizations including Georgia Retired Educators Association, The Exchange Club of Valdosta, Southside Recreation Center, Lowndes County Improvement Association and a was constant face at the Ham and Egg Show. Velma's love for people was expressed through countless acts of giving, service, words of encouragement and wisdom. She never met a person she would not help, if she could not help, she would not stop until she found someone who would help. Velma's life was a manifestation of Acts 20:35; "It is more blessed to give than to receive". Her legacy as an advocate for children, her dedication to her community and various humanitarian causes will forever serve as an inspiration to all.

Velma was proceeded in death by her parents, J.C. (Buster) and Oma Perry; brothers, Robert, Roman, James, Leonard and Donald Perry.

She is survived by her husband, John Miles; two sons, John LeVell (Raven) Miles and Joshua Blake (Amber) Miles; step-daughters, Gloria (Herbert) McRoy and LaTanga (Shawn) Bryant; siblings, Laverne (Sully) Carter, Mary Nell (LaBarfield) Bryant, Bernard (Shenna) Perry and Linda (Lonnie) Denton; one sister-in-law, Marylyn Perry; adorable and loved grandchildren; devoted niece, Elnora Perry; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

The celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 3, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. at Francis Lake A.M.E. Church Cemetery, 905 Lakes Blvd., Lake Park, GA 31636. Pastor Sharron Jackson, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Francis Lake A.M.E. Church Youth Department, P.O. Box 152 Lake Park, GA 31636.

Stevens Funeral Home of Valdosta