Velva Lee Hicks: 1934 – 2024
Velva Lee Hicks age 90, of Gillette passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center.
Velva Lee Schmidt-Hicks was born April 20, 1934 to Levi and Thurra Schmidt in Blackwell, Oklahoma. Her life spanned 90 years, three months, and nine days. For all those that said it would never work, the last fifty-three years and twenty-eight days of her life, Velva was married to Bob Hicks. They were married on July 2, 1971 in the home of Alice and John McGuire in Gillette by Minister Ronald Wood.
Being the excellent seamstress that she was, over the years, Velva must have sewn at least some every day of her life. Her mother began teaching her to sew by making doll clothes when she was seven years old. In the fifty-three years that she and Bob were together, she wore out seven sewing machines and two Sergers by making clothes for family and close friends. Her more than excellent abilities were recognized by many. She spent several years teaching sewing classes in a local fabric shop.
Velva was a loving and devoted wife, caring and compassionate mother, homemaker, and faithful and devoted Christian. She was a shining example for her family and all those who knew her. Proverbs 31:10-31 is a perfect description of Velva’s life.
Velva was preceded in death by her mother and father; her sister, Doris Johnson; her daughter, Shelley Hayden; and Bob’s son, James Glen Hicks.
Velva is survived by her husband, Bob Hicks of Gillette; son, Alan Handrick and his wife Mary of Rock Springs, Wyoming; son-in-law, Randy Hayden; and daughter Tami Beckham and her husband Jeff of Gillette, Wyoming.
Velva is also survived by Bob’s children: Marcus Hicks of Belton, MOontana and Renee Snyder and her husband Tom of Edmond, Oklahoma. Velva loved and enjoyed numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was affectionately called “Sugar Granny.” She was loved deeply and will be greatly missed.
Public visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, August 4 at Gillette Memorial Chapel (210 W. 5th St.). Memorial Service and Fellowship to be held on Monday, August 5, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Gillette Church of Christ (1204 T-7 Lane). Private graveside service will be held at Mount Pisgah Cemetery.
James “Jim” Edward McElwain: 1969 – 2024
James Edward “Jim” McElwain, 54, of Gillette, Wyoming, passed away on July 28, 2024. Born on September 25, 1969, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Jim was a beacon of light in the lives of those who knew him. Known for his boundless kindness, honesty, and humor, Jim was always ready to offer guidance and comfort. His unconditional love was a privilege to all who were loved and known by him.
Jim proudly served in the military from November 4, 1986, till December 20, 1987, dedicating over a year of service that further exemplified his commitment to duty and country. After his military service, Jim dedicated over 36 years to BNSF Railway, where he was admired for his hard work and loyalty. His career on the railroad was not just a job but a lifelong passion that he pursued with dedication.
An avid car enthusiast, Jim’s love for his porsche and his unique square body Chrysler 300 was well-known among his friends and family. His hobbies extended beyond cars to the joyous times spent with his children and grandchildren, who were the center of his world.
Jim is survived by his mother, Jerri McElwain; father, Len McElwain; children: Ben McElwain, Trenton McElwain, Amanda McElwain, and step-daughter, Demetria Lyons; daughter-in-law, Tianna Swartz; grandchildren: Tissaia McElwain, TJ McElwain, Lillian Lyons, Dominic Lyons, and Leonora Lyons; sister, Pamela Pearson; and brother, Tony McElwain.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 17, at the veteran’s shelter at the Dalbey Memorial Park. The celebration of life will be at 11:00 a.m. The family has set up a GoFundMe account and a bank account through Campco for contributions in Jim’s memory.
The arrangements are being handled in Gillette, Wyoming, ensuring that Jim’s final farewell is as memorable as the life he led.
