Velvet J. Valentine

Velvet J. Valentine, affectionately known as “Ms. V,” transitioned Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the age of 79. Velvet attended IPS and graduated from Arsenal Technical High School. 

Velvet started her career in finance with American Fletcher National Bank and retired from Chase Bank. 

Velvet raised five children (a feat that should have earned her at least a medal, if not a lifetime supply of earplugs), a job she approached with equal parts love, discipline, and a strong belief that “as long as you live in my house…” was the start of any good life lesson. 

She was an incredible cook, the kind who could turn a simple meal into a feast and a feast into a memory. Her kitchen was a place where recipes were passed down and secrets were shared.

A gifted seamstress, Velvet didn’t just sew clothes, she created works of art. When her children were young, she proudly entered them into fashion shows wearing outfits she had made by hand. The clothes fit perfectly, the kids… occasionally did not cooperate, but Velvet always managed to make it look like that was part of the plan.

Velvet was a force of nature wrapped in elegance. She was quick with her wit, big in her heart, and always stylish, even if she had to make the outfit herself. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and perfectly seasoned everything.

We love you more than words can say.

A celebration of Velvet’s life will be held on August 23rd, 1pm - 4 pm at Flanner Buchanan, 2950 N. High School Road, Indianapolis, IN, where stories will be told, music will play, and someone will almost certainly be overheard saying, “It wasn't as good as Ms. V’s cooking.”

Velvet was proceeded in death by her parents, Samuel T. Perkins, Estella Robertson, Sister, Debrah Yates (Curtis), and son, Jerome Valentine (Nicole). She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters; Ronda Valentine-Thompson (Redd), Tina Valentine-George (Walter), Diane Golder - bonus daughter (Billy); sons; Jeffrey Valentine (Laura), Jason Valentine, James Valentine Jr. - bonus son (Rose). Tanya Hunter - Niece, Anthony Yates - Nephew, Sean Hoskins - Nephew; 21 Grandchildren; 31 Great Grandchildren, 4 Great-Great Grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him.

Proverbs 3:5