Velda Joyce Hunter

Velda Joyce (Raper) Hunter passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Christian Care Center in Mesquite, where she resided for the last 16 months. Family was by her side. She was born in Celeste, Texas on April 21, 1933 to the late Teddie Raper and Sarah Bernice (Compton) Raper. Velda married the love of her life, Claude Hunter, Jr. on November 4, 1950. They were married for almost 55 years when Claude lost his battle with cancer.

Together they raised four children – Deliah Ann and husband David Holt of Mesquite; Anthony Wayne (Tony) and wife Bonnie of Commerce; Carol Donnese Hunter and Shelly Floyd of Irving; and Brian Ray and wife Diane of Red Oak. They shared eight grandchildren, Darien Holt and wife Lori; Daylan Holt and wife Jennifer; Ryan Hunter and wife Rebecca; Shanon Floyd; Chad Hunter and wife Kristen; Bradley Hunter and wife Katy; Wesley Hunter and wife Sarah; Jaclyn Johnson and husband Eric; and Lauren Hunter. Her family continues to grow today with seventeen great-grandchildren.

Velda is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, one sister, Betty Hunt of Houston, nephews Ronnie and Jay Hunt of Houston, and many great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Teddie and Bernice Raper; brother Teddie Raper, Jr.; husband Claude Hunter, Jr.; sister-in-law Deliah Mae; and brother-in-law J.R. Hunt.

Born in Celeste, Texas, her family shortly moved to west Texas where they resided until the passing of her father when she was only ten. With support of family, her mother brought the girls back home to Celeste. During high school, Velda was voted Halloween Queen and played the snare drum in the “one-man-band!” Her beautiful smile captured the eye of Claude Hunter, and the rest created a history of treasured memories. After graduation, she moved to Dallas and worked for a pharmaceutical company, and with Claude also working in Dallas, he would offer her rides back to Celeste on the weekends. They married in 1950 and eventually made their home in Mesquite.

After a 27-year career with TXU, she retired in 1992, just in time to become quite the travelers with their little RV. From the east coast to the west coast, and touching Canada on both ends, they saw everything in between. As time allowed, they spent time on the road supporting their grandchildren throughout their activities. She adored her family, and family gatherings were extremely important. Her family called her “Granny,” and loved flowed in all directions.

Velda was a member of the Park Christian Community Church, and before her stroke in 2014, was very active in the Christian’s Women’s Fellowship group, the Double-Nickel Club and the Joy Sunday School Class. She loved her church and her church family. Velda had a strong faith in her Lord and Savior. She will be forever loved and missed by all.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Velda's name to Calvary Kidz c/o Park Christian Community Church, 2701 North Town East Boulevard Mesquite, TX 75150