Velma Marie Wolaver

April 18, 1930 - July 18, 2014

Velma M. Wolaver, age 84, of Marion, IL, passed away peacefully at 9:25 a.m. on Friday, July 18, 2014, at her home. She was born in West Frankfort, IL, on Friday, April 18, 1930, the daughter of Brady and Marie (Matteson) Rose. Velma attended grade school in West Frankfort and when she was in the sixth grade her family moved to Marion, IL where she completed the rest of her education and was a graduate of Marion High School in 1948. She was united in marriage to Charles Gilbert “Gib” Wolaver on Saturday, June 26, 1948, in the First United Methodist of Marion, IL and together they shared nearly sixty years of marriage until his death on May 24, 2008. Her working career was as a Book Keeper most of her lifetime beginning with her father and his business and after she was married for her husband and his business, “Gilbert Wolaver Construction” and later for her son and his business, “G. Wolaver Masonry” until 2005. Also during this period of time, beginning in 1972, she worked as receptionist and office manager for Dr. D.L. Smothers, D.D.S. until he closed his practice. Velma was an active member of the Zion United Church of Christ of Marion, IL for many years. When she was young she was actively involved in the Marion Junior Women’s Club, where she served in many positions including President and Director of the 25th District. Later she became active in the Marion Women’s Club also serving in several positions including President. In her spare time she enjoyed gardening, feeding and watching the birds and caring for animals of all kinds. She also was involved volunteering in many different organizations of the community. She is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Jo Ellen and Joe Middleton of Hartwick, NY and Janis and Richard Marchal of Marion, IL; son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Carol Wolaver of Marion, IL; three grandchildren, Kelly Jordy and husband, Wayne of North Port, AL, Bryan Marchal and wife, Vanessa of Marion, IL and Amber Edwards and husband, Bobby of Johnston City, IL , three great grandchildren, Kaylee and Wesley Marchal both of Marion, IL and Lacey Edwards of Johnston City, IL, other extended family members and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband. Arrangements for Velma M. Wolaver have been entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 N. Court St., Marion, IL 62959. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. For additional information please contact the funeral home by calling 618-993-2131.