Velma Arrington

VELMA WHITE-ARRINGTON was born September 23, 1934 in Hazelhurst, MS. She was the third of nine children born to the late Anderson Curry and Ida Mae Curry. Velma, accepted Christ at a young age in Hazelhurst, where she also began her education. The Curry Family later moved to Michigan City, IN, and then to Gary, IN, where she attended and graduated from Roosevelt high School. Shortly after high school, Velma married Robert Lee White, Sr. Their union was blessed with four beautiful children; Corliss, Deborah, Brenda and Robert Jr. In 1961, the family Moved to Oceanside, CA and united with Walker Chapel A.M.E. Church under the spiritual guidance of Reverend W. W. Fisher and continued under Pastor Donna Davis. Velma, who embraced and enjoyed singing since early childhood, was a member of the choir; she also enjoyed doing “This is your life”, program where she would do an autobiography on other church members and would recite their life by memory. She was amazing! She loved her church, her pastor and her church family. Velma was a faithful member in attendance and service until her illness prevented her. Shortly after her move to Oceanside, Velma enrolled at Mira Costa College, where she majored and earned a degree in English. Afterwards, she began working as a tutor for the Oceanside Unified School District. Velma also served her community as an event planner and organizer. She was an active member of the PTA wherever her children attended school. She was also involved and assisted with the youth little league teams and after school programs. Velma very much enjoyed working with children. Velma later met and fell in love with CharlieArrington, Jr. They were united in marriage on December 28, 2008; shortly afterwards, he joined her at Walker Chapel A.M.E. Church. They were inseparable; they did everything together. Charlie preceded her in death on March 29, 2014. Velma loved and lived life to the fullest. She was full of love, charisma and joy. She was a very loving and caring mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, aunt and a friend to many. She enjoyed spending quality time with family and friends. Velma, who enjoyed singing and listening to music, had the opportunity to meet many great artists such as James Brown and BB King. Her most favorite pastime was shopping; her second most favorite was more shopping! On Saturday, January 16, 2016, Velma White-Arrington was called from earthly labor to eternal rest. She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Corliss Jean White of Diamond Bar, CA, Deborah Jean White-Bradley (Raymond) of Tampa, FL, Brenda White Gross of San Diego, CA and Robert Lee White, Jr. (Contessa) of Laguna Niguel, CA; one brother, Bobby Curry of San Diego, CA; sisters, Liberty Corley (James Sr.) of San Diego, CA and Ann Howell (John) of Gary, Indiana; her longtime friend and confidant, Robert White, Sr. of Oceanside, CA; six grandchildren, seventeen greatgrandchildren, three great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends who will mourn her passing, yet celebrate her life.