Velma Keith

April 12, 1936 - November 3, 2015

Velma Cherie Jackson Keith, age 79, died peacefully on November 3, 2015 at home, surrounded by her family. She was born April 12, 1936, in El Paso, Texas the daughter of Armond Lorenzo and Lavinia Bentley Jackson. Velma grew up in Texas on a large farm. She loved dancing, was an accomplished pianist, enjoyed singing and participated in lots of performances in her youth. She graduated from El Paso High School and attended Brigham Young University, where she graduated in Elementary Education. In 1958, Velma married Wayne P. Keith. They met in Opera Workshop at BYU and it was love at first sight. She was fiercely devoted to her family and they were the center of her life. In addition to raising their six children she also taught 4th grade for 18 yrs at American Heritage School, co-authored 2 books, “Herbally Yours” and “The How To Herb Book”, taught health classes for community education, was active in civic matters, a member of Eagle Forum, and enjoyed singing with her husband Wayne in local performances. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and enjoyed her callings as Ward Choir Director, Primary Chorister, Stake Music Director and Relief Society Teacher. She also volunteered her time as a temple organist. Velma is survived by her husband of 57 years, Wayne P. Keith, her 6 children, Kathryn (Dave) Adams, Wayne (Stacy) Keith, Kerilynn (Lance) Lenhart, Bill Keith, Allan (Melissa) Keith, Heidi (KC) Bezzant, her brothers, Harold Jackson, Robert Jackson and Dwight Jackson and her 25 grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Armond Lorenzo and Lavinia Jackson; her brother, Armond and sister, Lavinia. She was feisty, strong-willed, beautiful and brave. She was the center of every family gathering and we will miss her dearly. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, November 7th, at 1:00 pm, at Lindon 3rd Ward, 320 West 500 North, Lindon, Utah, where a Viewing will be held prior from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. Interment in Lindon City Cemetery. Funeral Directors: Utah Valley Mortuary.