Velma Lois Baker

Velma Lois Barker, 94, of Blackwell, passed away on November 17, 2021. Viewing will be Tuesday, November 23, 2021, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Trout Funeral Home, Blackwell, Oklahoma. A Funeral Ceremony will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, November 23, 2021, at Trout Funeral Home Chapel, Blackwell, Oklahoma, with President Richard Donaldson officiating.

Velma was born in Blackwell on December 29, 1926, to Stanton and Ethel Mercer. She was the 7th of 10 children. She graduated from Blackwell High School, class of 1944, and later received her bachelor's degree in elementary education with a minor in psychology from the University of Denver in 1961. She was deeply dedicated to teaching special education and reading, enriching the lives of children. Velma taught elementary school from 1978-1981 in Missouri, then 1981-1991 in Newkirk, Oklahoma. She was passionate about learning and set the example of being a lifelong learner as she continued to take informal courses well into her 90’s.

Velma married Horace Max Barker, of Tonkawa, in 1945, who preceded her in death on September 10, 1991. They had three children, Randy, Stanley, and Jeanine, and were blessed with 10 grandchildren, and 29 great-grandchildren. Velma deeply loved her family and encouraged education and high standards.

Velma had many interests including genealogy, stitchery, crocheting, reading, and of course, continuous learning. She wrote three editions of her family history, tracing her lineage as far back as 1667. She created beautiful cross stitch pictures for all her children and grandchildren. Velma had a big heart and was often found helping others financially, with food items, and she always kept a drawer full of warm mittens and hats “for any little kid that might need them”.

Velma was the last surviving member of her siblings, and she did not like being left behind! She is survived by her children Randy Barker (Kelly), Stanley Barker (Marianne), and Jeanine Vest (Kelly). Her grandchildren April Barker, Max Barker (Danielle), Eric Barker (Eva), Jeffrey Barker (Shannon), Michael Vest, Amy Critchlow (Mark), David Vest (Leslie), Aaron Vest (Rebecca), Leah Fillmore (Jhereg), and Matthew Vest (Anissa). At the time of her death Velma had 29 great-grandchildren.

Velma will be laid to rest at the Mt. Olive Cemetery in Nardin, Oklahoma, immediately following her services.

She will be deeply and dearly missed.