Velma C. Whitaker

Velma C. Whitaker, 92, of Hannibal, MO, passed away at 7:02 AM, Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Luther Manor Nursing Center in Hannibal, MO. Funeral Services will be at 2:30 PM, Saturday, October 25, 2025, at James O'Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal, MO. Burial will be at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Center, MO. A visitation will be held from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, Saturday, at the funeral home. Velma was born October 23, 1932, in Waynesville, MO to Willard E. Budd and Edith Blanche Gann Budd. She was married to James Ernest Whitaker on February 20, 1954, in Hannibal, MO. As a homemaker, Velma took great pride in raising her children. She had a passion for the outdoors where you could find her fly fishing, camping, or simply enjoying nature's beauty. Velma had a green thumb and loved tending to her flower beds where she would harvest the most beautiful roses, peonies, and hibiscus. Having an enormous sweet tooth, Velma was always indulging in something sweet, her favorite being butter pecan ice cream. Velma was a wonderful cook and her kitchen was a gathering place for family and friends. Making Christmas candy each year to share with her loved ones was the highlight of the season for Velma. Above all, Velma cherished the times spent with her family and her beloved Yorkies, Melissa, Ava, and Katie. Velma will be missed by all who knew and loved her. As a Christian, Velma's preferred place of worship was Eastern Missouri Cowboy Church in Bowling Green. Velma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ernie; five brothers; two sisters; and daughter, Donna Abney. Survivors include her companion of over 30 years, Donald DeJaynes; her children, Sharon Kay Whitaker - Daughter, Christine Walker (Jimmy) - Daughter, Faith Woodridge (Matthew) - Daughter (Niece) and Sundae Bue (Steven) - Daughter (Niece); son-in-law, Terry Abney; several grandchildren; great grandchildren; nieces; and nephews. Pallbearers will be Jimmy Walker, Reece Walker, and Terry Abney Jr. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Velma, please visit our floral store.