Ms. Velma B. Phipps

June 14, 1937 - January 3, 2022

Ms. Velma Black Phipps, the daughter of the late John T. and Gertrude Black, was born on June 14, 1937, in Winston Salem, NC. She departed this earth on January 3, 2022, at Mary Immaculate Hospital surrounded by her family. Velma was the proud matriarch of her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She held many titles, but the one that meant most to her was Granny. Velma was no stranger to hard work. She had a passion for cooking and especially loved baking. She worked for Crum's Bakery in Newport News, Virginia and did so for over 20 years. She continued her love for cooking and began working at the Fort Eustis Mess Hall as a supervisor for over 15 years. While working at the Fort Eustis Mess Hall, Velma also worked at Colonial Williamsburg as a custodian. She continued her love for service and worked as a Cafeteria monitor for Newport News Public Schools until her health declined. Her memory will be cherished by her children: Daniel Phipps, Jr., Johnathan Phipps (Cynthia), Demetrius Phipps, Sr. (Beatriz), and Harolyn "Missy" Thompson; grandchildren: Rogerick Phipps, Tia Phipps, Omar Phipps, Demetrius Phipps, Jr. (Jackie), LaShawnda Seay (Alvin), Carlos Taliaferro, Jr. (Alaina), Lamar Credle, Tiffany Taliaferro, Rashan Taliaferro, and Neko Thompson; and great-grandchildren: Bryce Phipps, Bryson Ashley, Josiah Seay, Joshua Taliaferro, Kaiden Williams, Emanuel Ashley, Kyler Taliaferro, and Joelle Seay. Velma was known for having a strong exterior and no-nonsense personality, but she always had a way of being there for those in need. She will be missed by those who loved and cared for her. The immediate family would like to thank family and friends for all the prayers and acts of kindness extended during this difficult time.