Velma L. Bostic

We give honor to the extraordinary woman, Velma (Ross) Bostic, the cherished Matriarch of the Bostic and Ross Family. Born on Monday, August 20, 1928, in Lincolnton, NC, Velma departed this earthly life on Monday, July 29, 2024. She was the third child born of sixteen to the union of Annie (Clemons) Ross and Jerry Ross, Sr.

Velma’s heart knew no boundaries when it came to helping others. Throughout the years, she remembered the Salvation Army and the support her family received in their time of need. Even during difficult times, she gathered clothing, furniture, and food to serve those less fortunate. As times improved, she continued to support organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, St. Jude and Matthew 25 Ministries.

Warmth, hospitality, and creativity defined Velma. No one left her home hungry. She could stretch a dollar and transform simple ingredients into a feast. Her grape pie, made with love, became a legendary delight. Velma passed on her skills in cooking, sewing, cleaning, and self-reliance to all her children.

A woman of wisdom, Velma often reminded us, “Never say what you can’t do, but say what you can do! Always try! If you have a dollar, save a quarter.”

Her elegance was unmatched. She loved her hats and Sunday best attire. As a devoted member of Pilgrim Rest Primitive Baptist Church, she remained a pillar of faith until its closure.

Even when her health declined, her daughter, Jacqueline ensured that she continue to listen to sermons at home from St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Cecil Ferrell.

Velma also loved to tune into her baby brother, Min. Melvin Ray Ross Sunday sermons.

Velma married Calvin Bostic at 18, and together they shared 56 years of love until his passing in 2004. They brought seven wonderful children into this world, with her second-born, Calvin Bostic, Jr., preceding her in death.

Velma leaves to cherish and celebrate her life: Brenda (Lex) Dove, Fred (Claudia) Bostic, Denise Brown, Linda Kidd, Jacqueline Bostic, and Sandra (Ervin) Frye. Twenty-six grandchildren, fifty-two great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren, five siblings: Jerry (Marion) Ross, Jr., Sam (Margaret) Ross, Shirley Ganes, Verline Ross, Melvin Ray (Maria) Ross; three sisters-in-law: Berthine Ross, Oneida Ross, Evelyn Ross, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends, including her ‘running buddy’ Fannie Hill.

May Velma’s memory continue to inspire us to serve, love, and live our best lives. Rest in peace, dear Matriarch.

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