Velma Ray Weatherly, lifelong resident of Nederland, Texas, was born September 26, 1927, to Clayton Henry and Thelma Lee Bartels, and died on June 25, 2010. Although cancer and related complications led to her death, she remained a role model of love and devotion, honest character strength, and a great outlook on life in good times and challenges. She was always modest about her achievements and contributions, yet those who knew her felt comfortable in the warmth and thoughtfulness with which she treated everyone. Velma Ray met Wesley A. Weatherly when they were young teens and married September 4, 1945, to enjoy a life together that produced two sons, Wesley Clay and Kirk Lee. Deep affection, open communication, and laughter made theirs the perfect union that never faded, even after her husband’s death in 1980.
Velma Ray’s manner with family and friends (and even her doctors) has been heart-warming and inspirational, and we will miss her tremendously. As a 1945 graduate of Nederland High School, Velma Ray served as past president (and excellent keeper of memories and photographs) for the Alumni Reunion Club. She and her Wesley were charter members of Wesley United Methodist Church in Nederland, and she remained actively involved with her church family throughout her adult life. She was a wonderful mother-in-law to Wesley Clay’s wife Marlis and to Kirk’s wife Kelly. She was the best grandma EVER for Wesley Clay’s children, Clint and Darla, and for Kirk’s sons, Jim and Ethan. When Clint brought his wife Rhonda into the family with her daughters Makenzie and Kelly, Velma Ray happily developed a relationship with both girls. Clint and Rhonda gave her another great-granddaughter, Camryn, in April 2009, which gave her great joy and delight. Besides these children and grandchildren, her brother Donald Bartels, his wife Patsy, nephews Paul Williamson, Bryan Bartels, Darren Bartels, and their families survive Velma Ray. Her sister Ethel Williamson and brother Darold Bartels predeceased her.
The viewing for Velma Ray will be held on Sunday, June 27, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Broussard’s Mortuary in Nederland. The funeral service conducted by Reverend Kevin Otto will be at 10 a.m. on Monday, June 28, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Nederland, followed by the graveside service at Oak Bluff Cemetery..
