Velma Jean Stockdale, born on September 2, 1957, in Branson, Missouri, passed away Sunday June 29th at home at the age of 67. She was the beloved daughter of Orvile Leon and Mary Elaine Carnelison.

Velma graduated from Hollister High School before continuing her education at Baptist Bible College, where her faith and love for others deepened. She later moved to Canada, where she made a lasting impact as a teacher at a Christian school, inspiring the lives of many young students through both her lessons and her example. During her time in Canada, she welcomed her greatest blessing, her daughter Sarah.

In 1989, Velma and Sarah returned to the United States, where Velma continued her life of service, working in roles that allowed her to engage with and serve the public. Her professional journey was marked by her warm demeanor, genuine care for others, and a remarkable ability to brighten any room she entered.

Velma will be remembered most for her cheery spirit and radiant outlook on life. She had an enduring belief in the good in people and faced every challenge with love, grace, and forgiveness—rooted in her steadfast faith and her deep trust in God’s goodness. Her laughter was contagious, her heart was generous, and her unwavering faith was a source of comfort and strength to those who knew her.

Preceded in death by her parents Leon and Elaine Carnelison, her daughter Sarah Fast, her brother Michael Carnelsion, her nephew Justin Arnall, and her great niece Janelle Halbert.

She is survived by her loving siblings—Terry Carnelison, Charlotte Kenyon, Patty Stiffler, Tim Carnelison, Gary Carnelison, and Judi Arnall—as well as many extended family members who will miss her greatly.

Though she will be deeply missed, Velma’s light lives on in the hearts of those she touched—with every smile shared, every kindness offered, and every moment spent looking on the bright side.