Velma Celesta Elzey

Velma Celeste Elzey, born July 3, 1947, in Cordele, Georgia, was the 11th of 12 children born to Merleen and Frank Martin.

Growing up during difficult times, Velma showed resilience and strength from an early age. At just 13 years old, she moved to Cumming, Georgia, where she would meet the love of her life and her future husband, Dean Elzey. They married in 1963 and built a beautiful life together, raising their three children—daughter Deanna and sons Bradley and Kevin.

Faith was a cornerstone of Velma’s life. She was a longtime member of Cumming Second Baptist Church, where she devoted herself to teaching Sunday School, leading revivals, and guiding women’s ministries. Her beloved Dean served as a deacon by her side, and together they touched many lives through their service.

Velma is now reunited in Heaven with Dean, her parents Frank and Merleen Martin, and her siblings: Buck, Doc, Footie, James, Johnny, Raymond, Peanut (Walter), Nettie, and Reba.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and family. Velma is survived by her children:

– Deanna Elzey

– Bradley Elzey and wife Christa

– Kevin Elzey and wife Michelle

Her cherished grandchildren: Malia, Cameron, Jaxon, Anna, and Bryson Elzey; step-grandchildren: Tony, Hilary, Jacob Luna, and Kera Hayden; great-grandchildren: Kaley and Cecelia.

She is also survived by her siblings: Thelma and husband JD, Reuben and wife Margaret, and sister Opal Curtis.

She is remembered fondly by her extended family through marriage: brother-in-law and sister-in-law Jerry and Nell Elzey; sister-in-law Sharon Elzey; brother-in-law Bruce Elzey; sister-in-law Renate Martin; along with many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Cumming Second Baptist Church, with Rev. Sam Rickett and Rev. Allen Swaffert officiating. The family will receive friends at Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory on Saturday, July 12, from 4:00–8:00 p.m., and again prior to the service on Sunday, July 13, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Sawnee View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Velma’s memory to:

Cumming Second Baptist Church

217 Veterans Memorial Blvd

Cumming, GA 30040