Velva Jenkins "Vel" McLamb

Velva Etta Jenkins McLamb, age 92, of Smithfield, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 31, 1933, in Alexander County, Vel was the daughter of the late Thomas Nelson Jenkins and Florence Smith Jenkins. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Campbell "Bob" McLamb; her siblings, Ila Carrigan, Grace Jenkins, Ernest Jenkins, Ray Jenkins, Geneva "Jean" Coppla, Johnny Jenkins, Clayton Jenkins, and Earl Jenkins; as well as her niece Estelle Jenkins Rogers and nephew Hal Luke Rogers.

Vel began her career with Southern Bell Telephone Company in Charlotte, NC, where she met her future husband, Bob. After their marriage, the couple moved to Goldsboro, NC, where Vel worked alongside her father-in-law, Ernest McLamb, at Johnson Cotton Company. Later, they made their home in Smithfield, NC, where Vel became a credit manager at Heilig Meyers Furniture Company. She worked there for many years, forming lasting friendships and enjoying her daily interactions with the public.

After retiring from Heilig Meyers, Vel began a new and fulfilling chapter working in the after-school program at First Baptist Church of Smithfield, where she was a devoted member. She even obtained her CDL license so she could personally drive the church bus, picking up children from local schools each day. This role, working with children and serving her church, brought her immense joy and purpose.

Vel's heart was always with her family, her church, and the children she cared for. Even after retiring from the After School Care Program at First Baptist Church, she continued serving at the church by working in the office-answering phones, preparing bulletins, and helping anyone who came through the doors seeking assistance. Vel also enjoyed a good game of bridge, dominos and any type of game that challenged her intellect. She loved attending her grandchildren's sports activities when they were younger, and was always ready for a trip to the beach or mountains with the grandkids, or a cruise with friends. She was also known for her boundless energy in baking cookies and creating joyful moments for her grandchildren. As her husband Bob often said, "Why would they want to go home after being here? It's better than Disney World!"

Vel is survived by her daughters, LouAnn Cooper (David) of Greenville, NC, and Beth Sigmon (Kenny) of Winterville, NC; her grandchildren, Benjamin Hines III, Emily Hines, Elizabeth Hines, and Cam (Bethany) Sigmon; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

Vel had a heart full of love for those around her and cherished the relationships she built throughout her life. A special thank you goes to Donald Bailey, Margie Littlefield, David Lasater, Lee Colbert, Janice Holland and caring friends and neighbors for their friendship and support.

A celebration of Vel's life will be held on Saturday, September 27th at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Smithfield. The family will receive friends immediately following the service in Ryberg Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to First Baptist Church Smithfield, 202 S. Fourth Street, Smithfield, NC 27577.

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