Velma Savannah Bogard was born November 24, 1929 in Ashland, Mississippi to Pearl Bogard & Willa (Beck) Bogard. Velma was one of two girls and was always a caregiver in the family. From an early age she learned how to cook and clean to assist her younger sibling while her parents were out at work. In her teen years, Velma gave birth to her first child, Willie Mae Bogard, in Ashland Mississippi. Years later she welcomed a son, Herman Bogard, in St. Louis, Mo. Velma worked as a Nanny and Housekeeper before transitioning as an employee of Barnes Jewish Hospital. Velma had fond memories of working at BJC in Housekeeping for the nursing students. She often said the girls were a lot of fun and she enjoyed seeing them celebrate as they completed their journeys. Velma retired at the age of 62 in 1991. During retirement she worked as a foster grandparent at Vashon High School and Child Garden Care Center. Velma loved those babies and the babies, as well as their families, loved her. She also spent time working with political campaigns and celebrated as her candidate, Mike McMillan, won the title of license collector. In 2014 she continued with her passion of childcare by taking care of her great-great grandson, Jesiah for a year and a half until he transitioned to early head start. Afterwards they enjoyed frequent visits together on the weekends and built an unbreakable bond. In 2017 Velma moved to Delmar Gardens where she spent her remaining years. The staff adored Velma, saying she was a joy to care for and always “so sweet”. August 22, 2024 Velma transitioned to be with her Lord & Savior after spending her last moments at Mercy hospital. She was with her granddaughter Caroline and great granddaughter Kanay when she passed from complications of a stroke. Velma will be fondly remembered by everyone who knew her as she was a shining light, never dimmed, always bright. Velma was the last of her living siblings and leaves behind a daughter in law (Mary Bogard), three grandchildren (Lavell Bogard, Ladonna Bogard, and Caroline Bogard) and a host of great grandchildren (Surron Shelby, Lavell Bogard Jr, Kanay Coleman, Lamont Bogard, Lamar Bogard, LaKeisha Bogard, Destiny Bogard, LaTrey Bogard, & LaShawn Bogard). She was also blessed to have great-great grandchildren whom she spoke with daily and considered her pride and joy (Jesiah Coleman, Micah Coleman, and Uriah Coleman). Velma was preceded in death by her parents as well as her children Willie Mae & Herman, and her siblings Lucille (Peggy), Hartman (Bo), Eugene, Theola, and Henry (Noot) Bogard.