Velma Kay Farley
Velma Kay Farley (nee Ray), aka Crazy Cousin Kay, 69, of Euclid, OH, formally of Mentor, OH, transitioned peacefully on June 11, 2020 at the VA Medical Center in Cleveland, OH. She was wrapped in the arms of her daughters as she departed this life for a new destination where pain and illness does not exist.
Kay was born on March 27, 1951 in Old Hickory, TN. Many people were shocked to discover she had a twin sister. We should all be thankful they were fraternal because the world was not equipped to handle an identical version of this one! Kay always wondered what “good medication” her mother was given when she named them. It is still up for debate which twin was blessed with the most cringeworthy name. Decide for yourself: Velma Kay Ray or Melba Faye Ray. It is understandable why these two were known simply by their middle names. It was not until the last 10 years or so she embraced being called Velma. Before then she would have threatened to shove her size 4 foot up your ass (her words).
In 1974, she graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a B.S. in Education. She became the first woman enrolled in the advanced ROTC program at MTSU. One of her favorite experiences to share was standing guard twice for Elvis Presley when he performed at her university.
Following in the footsteps of brothers she admired, Kay chose to enlist in the U.S. Army to proudly serve our country. She was a clinical specialist stationed at Fort Knox, KY. Her dedication to Flag and Country remained true. During the early 1990’s, she was an active member of the AMVETS Post 109 Color Guard.
Kay valued quality time with family and friends. She was always “glad that you got to see her”. Being a kid at heart, Kay had a natural ability to connect with children and was passionate about teaching them. Neighborhood kids loved sitting outside to talk with “Miss Kay” after school.
She loved ice-cold Pepsi in her Bubba mug, chocolate milkshakes, baked potatoes, making people laugh, embarrassing her children, pulling weeds, and playing in the dirt. Due to her iron deficiency, her doctors and daughters were relieved she did not eat it! Judge Judy and Paternity Court were among her favorite daytime programs and The Game Show Network was a staple during her bedtime routine.
She leaves behind an impressive library of unread books, a ridiculous amount of marbles and jingle bells, a variety of brightly colored “crocs”, an absurd assortment of rocks, enough cans of pork ‘n beans for a family of 4 to survive another quarantine, and plenitude of unforgettable memories with every person she encountered during her life.
Survived by daughters Bobbie (Michael) Shelton and Lillia Farley, grand dogs Smokey and Gracie, brothers Roy (Judy) Ray of Goodlettsville, TN, Charles (Geri) Ray of Hermitage, TN, Ronnie (Sandy) Ray of Louisville, KY, sister-in-law Linda Ray of Hartsville, TN, nieces / nephews, and her “outlaws” in Dunlap, TN.
Preceded in death by the father of her children Norman A. Farley, father Hesson Ray, mother Bobbie Smith, brothers Jerry Ray and Donnie Ray, twin sister Faye Jeffers, and sister-in-law Joan Ray.
A Memorial Service will take place on August 22, 2020 at Putnam-Standefer Funeral Home in Dunlap, TN, with interment at Hixson Cemetery.
A Celebration of Life is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2020 at the Lakefront Lodge in Willowick, OH. Shout out to COVID-19 for the delayed festivities!
Whether you attend one or both services, keep in mind Kay was not a fan of dressing up and would prefer you to be comfortable. Casual clothing (jeans, shorts, t-shirts, or even sweats) is encouraged. Bright colors or patriotic designs were her favorites! The fancier your outfit, the more out of place you will feel.
Since her daughters have a tough time keeping flowers and plants alive, please consider donating to the Cleveland VA Medical Center (cleveland.va.gov) or the Scleroderma Foundation (scleroderma.org)