Velma Louise Robbins Smith

Velma Louise Robbins Smith, age 96, of Collinwood, TN, gently departed from this world on Sunday, January 19, 2025. Born on April 16, 1928, in the charming town of Florence, AL, she was the beloved daughter of the late Joe Thomas and Carrie Maybelle Murphy Robbins.

On her special day in 1946, Velma celebrated not only her birthday but also her union with Arthur Wilson Smith. Their love story cherished over the years, sadly, took a turn when he preceded her in death on September 10, 1988. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless treasured memories.

Velma devoted herself to her family and her community. A proud member of the Collinwood Church of God, she embodied faith and kindness in everything she did. Her dedicated work as a seamstress at Angelica Manufacturing Company marked many years of commitment before she retired, showcasing her unwavering spirit and diligent work ethic.

Though her physical presence may be gone, Velma's warmth and loving spirit will be forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

She is survived by sons, Thomas Lewis Smith (Dorothy) of Florence, AL, and Smitty A. Smith (Sheila) of Collinwood, TN; daughter, Ruthy Janet Purser (Paul) of Collinwood, TN; brother, Thomas Glenn Robbins; sisters, Jewelene Holt (Tootie) of Ford City, AL and Emma Jean Moore (Carl) of Florence, AL; grandchildren, Patrick (Lisa) Purser, Penny Mattox (Matt), Brian Smith (Ryan), T.H. Smith, Michelle Holt (Brent), and Eric Smith (Chrystyl); great grandchildren, Ethan Purser (Deanna), Evan Purser, Carter Smith, Corbin Smith, Brilea Pigg, Griffin Pigg, Summer Smith, Gunner Smith, Issac Mattox, Zion Mattox, and Makenzie Smith; and great-great grandchildren, Anakin Purser, and Atticus Purser.

In addition to her husband and parents, Velma was preceded in death by her siblings, CM Robbins, Charlene Davis and Waco Robbins, Selma Newton, and Kathleen Foust.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm and on Thursday, January 23, 2025 from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm service time at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Collinwood, TN.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Collinwood, TN with Nelson Moffett and Brian Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Lutts Cemetery with Shackelford Funeral Directors assisting the family.