Velma Louise Nelson – Updike's Obituary
Velma Nelson – Updike was born 8/30/18 in Henryetta, OK to Ruth and John J. Long. She spent her early years attending school in Okemah and Maud, OK, and graduated from Seminole High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree from East Central University in Ada, OK, and a master’s degree from Oklahoma State University. She married Gilmer H. Nelson, who preceded her in death in 1998. Later she married R.L. Updike, her high school sweetheart, and they enjoyed retirement and their blended families until his death in 2008.She was an educator and enjoyed teaching all levels and ages. During World War II she was employed at Ada High School. When the family moved to Muskogee, she taught elementary and high school and later spent 3 years teaching at Connors College. After moving to Oklahoma City, she was a faculty member at Heritage Hall and then at Rose State College.She was a member of P.E.O., K.K.I., Oklahoma Hospitality Club, Delta Pi Epsilon, Green Country Women, and Christ United Methodist Church, where she taught an adult Sunday School class for many years.Velma was independent and outspoken, in a time when most women were not. Always optimistic and outgoing, she loved to travel and learn new things, and was always up for a party or an OU football game! Her warmth and wisdom made her a mentor and advisor to many, both students and adults. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Despite failing vision and hearing, she always found a way to remain interested in the world and a joy to be around.Survivors include: Chris Maricle (husband Ken), David Nelson (wife Jane), grandchildren Alan Maricle, Steve Maricle, Craig Maricle, Stuart Nelson, Trevor Nelson, Julia Brown; 3 great-grandchildren. Velma also loved her step children, Linda Matthews (husband John) and Jay Updike (wife Susan), and their children. The family wishes to thank Velma’s caregiver Nancy Brown for her dedication, and Dr. Donald Higgins for his excellent medical care. Visitation will be 4:00 – 8:00 on Monday Oct. 2 at Floral HavenA Celebration of Life will be held at Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ United Methodist Church, 3515 S. Harvard, Tulsa, Okahoma
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