Velma Gebhards Smart

Velma Gebhards Smart, was born February 24, 1929 on the family farm near Weskan, Kansas, the first child of Herman and Elizabeth Gebhards. On February 21, 1949 she married John Lee Smart, always affectionately known as "Johnny". With great fortitude, Velma survived and recovered from polio at the age of 22. She departed this life peacefully with family members present on November 29, 2014 at the age of 85 years, 9 months, and 5 days. Velma was devoted to her family. Few will know of her sacrifices as she left her legacy in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She had a wry sense of humor evidenced by quiet pranks she played on those close to her. Velma loved dogs and chickens; a reflection of her much-loved life on the farm in Kansas. She enjoyed crocheting and made many afghans and other gifts for family and friends. She kept her mind sharp by doing word search puzzles and playing Solitaire. Velma was preceded in death by her husband Johnny, son Boyd, sister Loretta and brother Dale. She is survived by her children, John, Pamela, Cathlyn, Douglas, and Eric; 11 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild; sister Irene, and brother Jim. In her personal Bible Velma had written "Death is a stepping stone to Heaven!" and highlighted 2 Corinthians 4:16: "So we do not lose heart; though our outward man perishes, yet the inward man is renewed day by day." She will be dearly missed by friends and family, and a remembrance service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, December 6 at The Villas, 1560 Davidson St., SE, Albany, OR.