- Date Of Birth: August 26, 1919
- Date Of Death: December 13, 2009
- State: New Mexico
VELMA BLANDFORD, 90, a longtime resident of Deming went home to be with the Lord on Sunday December 13, 2009.
Velma was born in Big Springs, Texas to John and Berta Simmons. She grew up in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico and after High School she attended ENMU where she studied Business. She moved to Deming in January of 1940 to take a job with the Department of Agriculture, Farm Security Office where she was promoted to Administrator to work in 23 counties during WWII.
Velma married Bernice Terrell (Jack) Blandford in March of 1940 and he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. She continued working in the Deming area and in 1945 she drove to New Haven, Connecticut where Jack was Honorably Discharged from the Navy Submarine Service. They returned to Deming to live and raise their children Jane, Judy and John.
Velma enjoyed supporting her husband’s career with Brem Chevrolet, farming, raising children and their school activities, Brownies, 4-H and the many family gatherings. More current interests included volunteering at the Deming Senior Center, Coffee Fellowship at the Methodist Church, Merry Mixers Square Dance, Ballroom dancing, Country Club Gardens Coffee Club as well as operating a successful business.
Velma was preceded in death by her husband, Bernice Terrell (Jack) Blandford, her parents John and Berta Simmons, and two brothers, Granvil and Earl Simmons. She is survived by her daughters, Jane and husband Dr. Dean Peyton, Judy and husband Chris Bailey, and her son John. Her grandchildren include Abby, Jack, Jessica and Becky and nine great grandchildren.
