Velma Dickerson

JONESBORO, Ill. -- Velma E. Dickerson, 62, of Jonesboro died Tuesday, May 12, 2009, at her home.

She was born Jan. 14, 1947, in Alexander County, Ill., daughter of Marion and Alberta Johnson Stevens. She and Mearl Dickerson were married May 1, 1964, in Elco, Ill. He died Aug. 2, 1997.

Dickerson was a resident of Edwardsville, Ill., 43 years before moving to Jonesboro. She retired as a cook with the Edwardsville School District. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Edwardsville.

Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Beth and Kevin Hileman of Jonesboro, Lisa and Mark Jorden of South Roxana, Ill.; four brothers, Wesley Rhymer of Dongola, Ill., Aaron Stevens of Rock Falls, Ill., Charlie Johnson of Chicago, Marion Stevens of Olive Branch, Ill.; five sisters, Mary Williams of Vienna, Ill., Irma Story of Metropolis, Ill., Barbara Foster of Goreville, Ill., Alberta Stevens of Park Ridge, Ill., Patricia Warner of Sherwood, Ark.; special friends, Cathy and Andy Smoraty of Warden, Ill.; three grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Kenny and Billy Stevens; a half brother, Jim Rhymer; and two sisters, Minnie Smith and Linda Price.

Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Jones Funeral Home in Tamms, Ill.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home, with the Revs. Everett Owens and Barbara Owens officiating. Interment will be in Cummins Cemetery near McClure, Ill.