Velma E (Rouner) (Felkner) Avery
Jul 4, 1916 - Mar 17, 2011
Posted by: Janet Laubhan Flickinger

http://www.havenbrookfuneralhome.com/

Velma (Felkner) Avery was born July 4, 1916, the only child of farmers Fred and Dora Rouner.  She grew up in Tuttle Oklahoma, graduating from high school there with honors in 1934. 

She attended the University of Oklahoma where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Math and a Masters in Education.

She and William Felkner were married in 1937, and had a daughter, Wilma. 

After starting an education career in Oklahoma City, she began teaching in the Norman Public Schools in 1948.  She became part of the inaugural staff of West Junior High when it opened in 1959. 

She enjoyed the roles of mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother immensely, making many fond memories during time spent with her daughter and son-in-law and their family.

After a 35 year career as a math teacher, “Ms. Felkner”, as she was affectionately known by all, retired with many fond memories and lasting friendships.

Velma then devoted her energies to a year-long career in real estate, receiving the Better Homes & Garden Medallion Club Award for $1 million in sales.

Velma was a devoted member of McFarlin Methodist Church and the Fellowship Sunday School class most of her life.  It was there she met Vestal D. Avery whom she married in 1982.  As newlyweds in their sixties, they shared many adventures traveling all over the world as well as attending OU Football games.

With her new marriage came a blending of families and Velma joyfully embraced her new role of stepmother and grandmother with great energy and love.

In 1970 Velma was honored to be the Norman Public Schools Teacher of the Year.  She also proudly served as President of the Oklahoma Education Association in 1976-1977, Professional Educators of Norman, Delta Kappa Gamma, and Cleveland County Retired Teachers Association.

When her husband Vestal’s health declined she turned her devotion to his comfort and care the remainder of his life, visiting with him in the Norman Veteran’s Center and writing poetry to him daily.

At home, she was an avid gardener and talented seamstress.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Dora Rouner, husbands William Felkner and Vestal Avery, daughter Wilma Holcomb, and step son Michael Avery. 

She is survived by son in law Dr. Hamp Holcomb & wife Patty, grand daughters Laura and Diane, step son Fred Avery & wife Cynthia, daughter in law Carla Avery, grand daughters Linda, Rebecca, Evanna, and Amanda, grand son Jonathan, and great grand children Mark, Madison, Dalton, Taylor, Samantha, and Maggie.