Velma Elaine Frederick was born on May 30, 1942, in Kiln, Mississippi. She entered the world under the care of a midwife, welcomed by her parents Leonard Frederick Jr. of Kiln and Isabelle James of New Orleans.

She began her education at the Jordan River School, a small school founded by her grandparents Beatrice Gillium and Leonard Frederick Sr. Velma was taught by her uncle, Dan V. Frederick, who also drove the school bus. She later attended Valena C. Jones School in Bay St. Louis, where she enjoyed playing basketball.

Velma's journey then took her to New York City, where she earned a business degree. When her mother became ill, she returned to Mississippi, moving to Gulfport while her father built a new home in Kiln. She remained close to her family, and during this time, she returned to New York where she welcomed her son, Aaron Frederick, born at St. Luke's Hospital in Manhattan.

Life led her back home to the Kiln once again following her father's illness, and she finally settled there after his passing. Velma devoted many years to serving children and her community—working at Hancock North Central Elementary, Head Start in Catahoula, and later at Head Start in Kiln, followed by employment at the NASA ammunition plant. She worshipped faithfully at St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church in Bay St. Louis.

Velma was diagnosed with dementia in 2011, and she faced her illness with grace until her passing on November 19, 2025, at Gulfport Memorial Hospital.

Her journey was one of strength, resilience, family, and faith – a life well lived and dearly cherished.

Forever loved.

Forever remembered.