Velma Ethridge

Velma "Mimi" Ethridge, 94, entered into the glory of her Savior, Jesus Christ on March 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Velma was born April 8, 1931, in Young County, Texas, to Wilbert G. and Lydia (Kunkel) Schlegel.

She graduated from Olney High School in 1948. In 1952, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics Education from Texas Women's University. She then moved to Kermit to begin her teaching career. She served 24 years in the Kermit Independent School District. She was a life member of the Texas State Teachers Association, as well as a member of the Retired Teachers Association.

Velma Schlegel married Joe Ethridge on July 17, 1954. The two of them had the honor of raising four wonderful children, Joni, Mark, Ann, and Todd. They were also 'Mimi and Papa' to 10 grandkids and 26 (and counting) great grandkids.

Velma was an involved member of the Kermit community. She was a Hostess of the Medallion Home for many years as well as a member of the local chapter of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She also served as a member of the Lutheran Women's Missionary League.

Faith was the cornerstone that Joe and Velma built their life around. They were charter members of Zion Lutheran Church, where she and her family worshipped and served for over seventy years. They raised their children, who in turn raised their children, to know and love the Lord. The legacy she leaves behind is one of faith, love, and joy that will impact generations to come. The lyrics to her favorite hymn, "Beautiful Savior," so wonderfully express her love for God and joy to honor him with her entire being:

Beautiful Savior, King of creation,

Son of God and Son of Man!

Truly I'd love Thee, truly I'd serve thee,

Light of my soul, my Joy, my Crown

Because of her unwavering faith and belief that Jesus Christ died in her place for the forgiveness of her sins, her family rejoices that she is now among the heavenly hosts forever singing praise to God.

Velma is survived by her children: Joni Pearson of Kermit, Texas, Ann Sullenger and husband Sid of Mertzon, Texas, Todd Ethridge and wife Joan of Coleman, Texas, and daughter-in-law, Liz Ethridge of Monahans, Texas; grandchildren: Jamie Pearson (Jørgen) Nøvik, John (Emily) Pearson, Joseph (Aspen) Pearson, Gunnar (Kelli) Sullenger, Reb (Kearstin) Sullenger, Jacob (Amanda) Ethridge, Emily Ethridge (Kyle) Bates, Mary Ethridge (Logan) Niehues, Joseph (Amber) Ethridge, and Patrick (Ludy) Hawthorne; and 26 great grandchildren. Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were the pride and joy of her life.

She is also survived by her sister-in-law: Tamsey Schlegel, nephew: Max Schlegel and family, niece: Kelly McCorkle and family, and niece: Robin Senter and family. In addition to her family, she is survived by special family friends: Kelley and Becky Creager, Gus and Sylvia Michaelis, and Susie Gray.

She was preceded in death by her husband: Joe Ethridge, her son: Mark Ethridge, her parents: Wilbert and Lydia Schlegel, and her brother: Melvin Schlegel.

Pallbearers will be Patrick Hawthorne, John and Joseph Pearson, Jacob and Joseph Ethridge, Gunnar and Reb Sullenger.

The family would like to express a special thank you for the kind, loving care provided by the Winkler County Memorial Hospital and Home Hospice of Andrews.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026, in the Zion Lutheran Church of Kermit with burial to follow at the Kermit Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you give to Velma's favorite charity, Samaritan's Purse, or your charity of choice. Link to Samaritan's Purse - https://www.samaritanspurse.org/memorial-page/velma-ethridge-kermit-tx/

Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Services Funeral Parlor. Condolences may be sent online at www.fs-fp.com.