Velma M (Robinson) Smith

Velma Smith
On December 22, 2021, Velma M. Smith, 84, suffered a cardiac arrest at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington, IA. 

Velma was born May 23, 1937, in Shelbina, MO. She was the fifth child and youngest daughter of Charley and Florence (Kipper) Robinson. 

Velma had an amazing work ethic, learned from her parents, and supported several people-oriented industries during her lifetime. While married, she worked as a care attendant at the Jefferson County Home in Fairfield, IA. After moving back to Burlington with her children, she spent the next 25 years as a supply technician for the Burlington Medical Center (later known as Great River Medical Center). In her post-retirement years, she worked in food services for the Burlington Community School District at James Madison Middle School.

Much has been said of Velma’s outgoing personality and vibrant smile. She was always there with words of encouragement to support her family and friends.  People often commented on her kindness, friendship, and love for others. She enjoyed talking to her children on her iPad and spending time with former friends from work. She was an ardent fan of game shows (Jeopardy), westerns (The Rifleman), and TV comedies (The Neighborhood and Frasier). 

Above all else, Velma cherished family. Her roles as daughter, mother, grandmother, and sister were the greatest achievements of her life. She was extremely proud of her children and grandchildren and never failed to share her pride in their accomplishments; they are her legacy.

Velma is survived by her sons Marty (Jeff), Alexandria, VA; Jeff (Rowena), Austin, TX; grandchildren Jordan (Tessa) Smith, Omaha, NE; and Stacia Smith, Burlington, IA; and great-grand daughter Jazlyn Miller. She is also survived by siblings Betty J. McCruter, Thomas Robinson, and Ray Robinson and several nieces and nephews, including Linda Robinson, for whose steadfast love and care she was extremely grateful.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Charles L. and Roy Robinson; sister Ruby Greenup;  son Leroy M. Smith, Jr.; daughter Denise (Jamie) Pearson; and former husband Leroy M. Smith, Sr.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

Prugh~Thielen Funeral Home is in care of the arrangements.

Visitation will be from noon until 4:00 PM, December 26, 2021 at Prugh Thielen Funeral Home. A private family burial will take place at Aspen Grove Cemetery in Burlington, IA.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the amazing critical care staff at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center for their care and concern.

A tribute video can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Velma's obituary at www.prughfuneral.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.