Velma Faye Smiley

Velma Faye Smiley, 92, passed away peacefully at her home in Altus on Friday, October 31, 2025.

Velma was born on February 24, 1933, in Cooperton, Oklahoma to Ray and Maggie (Harvey) Rollins. When she was young, the family relocated to Altus, where she grew up alongside her siblings, Raymon, Minnie Lee, Vera, J. W., Bettye, and Barbara.

Velma met and fell in love with Jack Owen Smiley, they married on August 12, 1950. Velma graduated from Friendship School in 1951, the two made their home in Altus, where they started their life together. They later moved to Martha, OK where they raised their four children, Margaret, Jacqueline, Jack, Jr. “Butch”, and Raymon Dewey.

Over the years, she held many jobs she took great pride in - working as a seamstress at Kellwoods, an operator for Southwestern Bell, and a teller at First National Bank. Eventually, she joined the United States Postal Service, where she worked her way up to Postmaster in Martha. After 47 dedicated years, she retired, having served her community faithfully and with care.

Even in retirement, Velma’s hands were never idle. She loved to sew, quilt, and crochet, creating countless beautiful pieces for family and friends. More than anything, she loved her family.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Maggie; her husband of almost 68 years, Jack; her brothers, Raymon and J.W.; and three sisters, Minnie Lee, Vera, and Bettye. Survivors include her children, Margaret Ortega and husband, Charles, Jacqueline Roberts, Jack “Butch” Smiley and wife, Mindy, and Raymon Dewey Smiley; grandchildren, Bryan Beane, Keaton Smiley, Hayden Smiley, and Evan Smiley; great-grandchildren, Abigial Beane, Elijah Beane, Arlo Smiley, and Calvin Smiley; and her sister, Barbara Jones; along with lifelong friends from SW Oklahoma who she dearly treasured.

Velma was laid to rest next to her husband, Jack, in a private Graveside Service at Altus City Cemetery. Online tributes may be made at www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.