Velma Mae Blanchard

Velma Mae Blanchard, 85, of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away on Thursday, August 29, 2024 in Norman, Oklahoma.

She was born in Cleveland County at the Blanchard homestead, February 4, 1939 to Henry and Mary (Spoon) Blanchard.

Velma was a lifelong resident of the Little Axe area. 

She retired from the University of Oklahoma after 20 years.  

Velma was an OU fan, loved dancing, music, bead work, quilting, sewing and camping.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Mary Blanchard; son, Marvin Smith and daughter, Anna Smith; sisters, Minnie Spybuck, Lucille Longhorn, Lousetta Gibson; brothers, Lewis Blanchard Clifton Blanchard, Henry Blanchard Jr., John Blanchard Sr.; granddaughter, Anna Roberts; and great granddaughter, Dasia Neconie.

Survivors include her 2 daughters and 1 son in law, Sharon Shawnee and Katie and Todd Yates; 2 sons and daughter in laws Roy and Lois Gibson, Gary and Nicole Gibson; 12 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren; sister, Elsie Blanchard-Patty; and many nieces, nephews and other extended family and friends.

Tribal Rites will be held Friday evening, August 30, 2024 at Brendle Corner. Burial will follow Saturday morning, August 31, 2024 at the Absentee Shawnee Burial grounds in Norman, Oklahoma with Glenn Mann officiating and Nick Gibson assisting, under the direction of  Cooper Funeral Home.