Mrs. Velma Boykin

Her Life Journey Velma Massenburg Boykin was born on May 8, 1930, in Henderson, North Carolina, to the union of James Early Massenburg and Carrie Foster Massenburg. On Tuesday, November 29, 2016, our Heavenly Father called her to rest. She was the youngest of ten children of whom eight siblings preceded her in death: five sisters including Annie Mae, Ethel, Mabel, Mollie and Nannie; three brothers, Archie, Acie and Percy. Velma accepted Christ at an early age and joined Dickie’s Grove Baptist Church in Henderson, North Carolina. She completed her formal education at Henderson Institute. She went on to attend North Carolina A&T University where she joined Sigma Gamma Rho sorority and earned a Bachelor’s degree of Education. On December 24, 1953, she married the love of her life, James Garfield Boykin. Later, while teaching and raising four children, she earned a Master’s of Arts degree in education from Wayne State University. As a military officer’s wife, Velma journeyed to many places with her husband and took residency in Georgia, New Jersey, Ansbach, Germany, Westland Michigan, New York, and finally in 1970, Detroit, Michigan as her final destination. Velma united with Mount Calvary AME in 1972 where she served faithfully for more than 44 years. She served on the senior Usher Board, Steward Board, as a class leader and in other roles supporting church ministries. When her health failed and prevented her active involvement, she continued to attend service almost to the end of her life. Also, on the arm of her devoted husband, she regularly attended weekly Bible study and Sunday school. Velma devoted her entire career to educating children, and taught in several school systems including Borden Town New Jersey Board of Education, Romulus and Detroit Boards of Education. Teaching was her passion. She loved instructing and guiding young people. She received several awards during her career, but the most valuable acknowledgment was from former students who would greet her and say, “You were my favorite teacher.” Velma had a known sense of humor and elegant style. She was a very giving person and had a gentle spirit. She had an infectious laugh. If you ever had the opportunity to sit next to her at a family gathering, you would have enjoyed her exceptional wit. After a long and fulfilled life, her journey ended when God picked one of His roses, Velma, and called her home to rest. She made her transition in her home surrounded by her loving family.

Mrs. Velma Boykin

May 8, 1930 - November 29, 2016