Velma Derby

Velma Derby, age 84, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, October 25, 2025. She was born March 27, 1941, in Reader, WV, a daughter of Hayward C. and Myrtle Ivey Myers Wildman. She enjoyed sewing, writing poetry, drawing pictures, growing flowers, collecting salt and pepper shakers, and assisting her husband, Leroy, with his wood carvings. Velma was beloved stepmom to her daughters. She loved and encouraged us until the end. She brought us much happiness and laughter. We enjoyed listening to stories of her life in Reader, WV and Ohio. She also shared many stories of her beloved grandparents, Blanche and Ollie Myers of Reader, WV. She will always live on in our hearts. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy J. Derby, daughter, Rachelle Keller, stepdaughter, Bonnie Gilbert, stepson, Leroy Derby, brother, Carl Wildman, and sisters, Wilda McCullough and Cecil Pepper. Surviving is her sister, Wilma Butler, many nieces and nephews. Her stepdaughters, Linda (John) Keller, Darlene Richeson and Debbie (Tom) Dorey; and many grandchildren who she was a loving grandmother to. There will be a graveside service later for the immediate family. Arrangements entrusted to Grisell Funeral Home & Crematory New Martinsville, WV. Sympathy expressions at grisellfuneralhomes.com