Velma Dean Greer, 101, of Higginsville, formerly of Orrick, passed away Friday, April 25, 2025, at Meyer Care Center in Higginsville.

Velma was born Jan. 27, 1924, in rural Orrick, the daughter of Albert O. and Ada (Estes) Barber. She was united in marriage to Norman Keith Greer of Orrick on Dec. 7, 1940. He preceded her in death on March 22, 2014. Together, they enjoyed 73 years of marriage.

Survivors include her two sons, William “Garry” Greer of Richmond and Norman L. (JoAnn) Greer of Lee’s Summit; and daughter, Teresa Leann of Higginsville. Other survivors include eight grandchildren: Michele (David) Williams, Erin (Chris) Schreier, Amy (Tim) Cromley, Sarah (Gino) Villavicencio, Amanda (Daniel) Tucker, Jared (Kelly) Swift, Chance (Sarah) Alberswerth and Trace Alberswerth. She also is survived by 18 great-grandchildren and two great-greatgrandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Marvin, Randall and Kenneth Barber; three sisters, Veva Tomlinson, Reba Borchers and Dorothy Pirch; and daughter-in-law, Connie Greer.

Velma was raised and educated in the area of her birth.

She dedicated her life to her family as a housewife and homemaker, raising her children with love and care. Throughout the years, she also worked outside the home on several occasions.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church in Orrick before later joining the First Baptist Church in Higginsville. Velma was active in her church communities, especially cherishing her time teaching Sunday school to young children.

After retiring in 1992, she and her husband relocated from Orrick to Higginsville. Together, they enjoyed spending time with their family at the Lake of the Ozarks. Earlier in their marriage, from 1946 to 1949, they lived and worked in Woodburn, Ore., before returning to Missouri to continue building their life together.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to South Point Cemetery, Orrick. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with funeral services will be held Saturday, May 3, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with the visitation to start at 9:45 a.m., followed by the services at 10:45. Burial will be in South Point Cemetery.

Please share your memories of Velma with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.