Velda was born January 8, 1921 in Groveton, TX to Lafayette and Elizabeth James Rhoads. She was a longtime resident of Galveston before moving to Port Arthur and was retired from the Galveston County Sheriff Dept.. She also was faithful member of Progressive Baptist Church, where she served in the Sunday School, Mission Dept. and song in the choir.            .

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Colquitt, L.V., Ed, Dan Moody, Willie B. and A.M. Rhoads; son in law, John Williams; granddaughter, Genera Charles.

Left with precious memories is her devoted husband, Wilcom Charles; daughters, Wilma Williams and Fay Gabriel all of Part Arthur; grandchildren, Louverta Hill, Velda Johnson, Sabrina Charles, Yovonda A-Gabriel; great grandchildren, Jonathan, Ladonna, Aerica, Robbin, Mar’Keisha, Chon’eisha and Roy; 8 great great grandchildren; sisters, Etta Mae Harris and Pearlie Mae Underwood; sister in law, Annie Mae Charles; god-daughter, April Cleveland; a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation will begin at 9AM on Saturday, February 19th, followed by funeral service at 11:00 AM at St. John Baptist Church Rev. Louis Simpson, Pastor; Rev W.E. Stevens officiating; Rev. K. Washington eulogist. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery.