London - Velma Claudette Smith Anderson, age 81, of London, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, with her family by her side.

Born on June 4, 1944, in Benham, Kentucky, Velma made her home on Bill Mays Road in London, where she lived for over 50 years. She was of the Baptist faith and took pride in accepting Christ as her savior later in life.

Velma was preceded in death by her loving husband, Carl Edwin Anderson; her sisters Lori Miracle, Bonnie Fightmaster, and Sharon Kirkman; her brothers Denver Smith and Jimmy Smith; and her in-laws Ray Miracle, Wallace Fightmaster, Rex Fredericks, James Shepherd, Darrell Kirkman, Linda Smith, Dee Smith, and Dixie Smith.

She is survived by her children: Rhonda (Gary) Hudson, Mark (Stephanie) Anderson, and Greg Anderson, all of London; and Chris (Mandy) Anderson of Carlisle, Kentucky. Velma was a proud and loving grandmother to Andrew Hudson, Carly Hudson, Meg Anderson, Drew Anderson, Mea Anderson, and Cam Anderson.

She also leaves behind her siblings Althene Fredericks, Shirley Shepherd, Marvin (Peggy) Smith, Karen (Tom) Bailey, Bobby (Sheila) Smith, Danny Smith and her wonderful roommate Lorene Vance; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A true entrepreneur, Velma owned and operated Marjeans Fashions and The Finishing Touch. She had a sharp eye for style and a nose for a great deal. Whether traveling the region for flea markets or scouting her next opportunity, Velma brought creativity and enthusiasm to everything she did. She was known for her strong spirit, quick wit, and deep love for her family and community.

She was a generous and spirited host, always ready to cook for a house full of family, friends or the UPS man. Her home was a hub of love, laughter, and activity—especially for her children's friends, who were welcomed like family. With a sense of humor both sweet and mischievous, Velma loved to make people laugh, sometimes even blush. She never met a stranger. Her warm, observant nature meant she always noticed the little things—like whether your shoes matched your belt or your pants and jacket were hemmed to the appropriate length. She delighted in giving gifts (especially socks) and was happiest when lifting others up with a compliment or a proud word.

Velma was larger than life—an overcomer, a dreamer, a doer, and collector of all things beautiful. Her strength, warmth, and unshakable love for others left a lasting mark on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The family would like to acknowledge and thank the staff at Laurel Heights (especially #1, #2, Jill and Brian) for the exceptional care they provided.

A Celebration of Life honoring Velma Anderson was held on Sunday, July 27,2025 at 3:00 pm in the chapel of House-Rawlings Funeral Home with Brother Joe Allen and Rodney Goodlett officiating. The family entrusted House-Rawlings with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Velma to Faith Assembly's Laurel Heights Ministry.