Velma Audreen Johnson Woods

1936 -

May 29, 2020

Velma Woods, 84, passed away suddenly on May 29, 2020. She was born to Esther and Ivel Johnson in Nebraska, the fourth of six children. She grew up in Tucson, Ariz. and was a proud alumna of Amphitheater High and ASU. Velma moved to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1962 and made it her home.

Velma was a nurturer of children and grandchildren, puppies, trees and flowers. She found great delight in simple joys and loved gardening - especially roses and lilacs - classical music and learning. She was a great cook and loved to sit at the table and visit over a cup of coffee. Most of all, she loved family: frequent gatherings, cooking together and family photos were highly prized.

Over her lifetime, Velma was a teacher, homemaker and community volunteer. She was an amazingly kind person. She believed deeply in people's potential and capacity for good. With boundless compassion, gentleness and quiet grace, she made people feel welcome and worthy. She will be remembered for her warm smile, joyful laughter and generous spirit.

She is survived by the love of her life, Roger, who made her laugh daily throughout their 62 years of marriage; beloved children, Susan, Helen (Richard), David and Catherine (Hans), all of Anchorage; beloved grandchildren, Ruby (Kendall) and Finn; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Velma will be interred in the Palmer Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date as circumstances allow.

Velma planted many seeds of kindness in her lifetime, and they grew and bloomed all around her. In her memory, please plant something beautiful in the world or donate an act of kindness in your community.