Velma Louise Leatherman, 79, of Kingsley, died Friday, April 26, 2024, at the Grand Traverse Pavilions.  She was born April 30, 1944, in Springdale Township, the daughter of Chester and Emily (McClellan) Leatherman.

In Velma's early years, she was a caretaker for her younger siblings after her parents' passing followed by the birth of her two children.

Then in later years helped raise her younger sister Rita's children; she was like a second mom to them. Velma was a loving caretaker to a lot more than her own children including her extended family of great nieces and nephews; Aurora, Alana, Lukas, Michael, Jasmine, Kobe, Tiana, Aiden, Jacob, Apollo, Serenity, and James whom she enjoyed visiting with over the years, she always spread the love of Christ to all around her.

Velma was a devoted member of the 700 club. She has always enjoyed watching game shows, Christian programs and listening to Christian music. In recent years she enjoyed taking care of the family dogs Winchester, Benelli, and Nova, along with cats Myrtle, Tiger and Buttons. She loved spending time with her extended family including James who was like a grandson, playing with his toys, watching him ride his bikes, and watching TV with him. She always enjoyed spending time with family and being around children.

She had the most beautiful smile that would brighten anyone's day. She was a devoted Christian looking forward to rejoicing with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Velma is survived by: her daughter, Rose; several grandchildren; her siblings, Pansy Peckham, John Leatherman, Tex Leatherman, and Chet Leatherman; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved cat, Myrtle.

Velma was preceded in death by: her husband Sam Shupiery; Parents, Son Gary Shupiery, Siblings Ruth Dobson, Victor and Darlene Leatherman, Rita and Duane Magee, Brother-in-law Jim Peckham and Niece Angela Jackson.

Funeral services will be conducted on Velma's 80th birthday, at 1:00 PM, Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, 511 S. Garfield Avenue, Traverse City, Michigan, 49686  with visitation beginning at 12:00 PM.

The family would like to thank the Grand Traverse Pavilions and Hospice of Michigan for the care they provided.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com