Velva Mathis Perry

Velva Rayna Mathis Perry was born on August 30, 1952, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the first child of Eugene and Bernetta Mathis and the first grandchild on both sides of her family.

From an early age, Velva was cherished by her loved ones-including her paternal grandparents, and specifically her grandmother, Alyce "Granny" Mathis-who open her eyes to the beauty and vastness of the world. Whether traveling to New York during the summer or taking the bus downtown, Granny nurtured Velva's spirit of curiosity and exploration. 

A shy child and an avid reader, Velva found peace and adventure in books. Through stories of faraway places and imaginative worlds, she learned that her mind could take her anywhere. Often preferring the comfort of her room in her Homewood neighborhood, she developed a deep appreciation for reflection and creativity that stayed with her throughout her life.

Velva attended Pittsburgh Public Schools, where she first met friends who would later become family (Guy and Angel Brown). While attending Taylor Allderdice High School, she met who would become the longstanding love of her life, Tyrone Perry. Their affection blossomed in those hallways, and the once-shy Velva was even named runner-up for Homecoming Queen her senior year.

After graduating, Velv attended Fisk University in Tennessee before returning home to Pittsburgh, where she reunited with Tyrone. Their story continued, and together they began a family. 

In 1972, Tyrone joined the army, and in 1973, the two welcomed their first child, Tyrone Curtis Perry II, and were soon married. Tyrone's stint in the army took him away from Pittsburgh, and Velva traveled with him and their growing family, giving birth to their second child, Erin, at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Leaving the army in 1976 and spending time in California with extended family, they returned to Pittsburgh. In 1980, their family was complete with the birth of their third child, Angel.

Velva's calm and gentle love became the foundation for her family. Her greatest joy was having her children together, sharing meals, laughter, and love.

As her children grew, Velva extended her care and compassion to her work. She began as a receptionist at Phillip Pelusi, later became a coordinator with the Department of Federal Programs, and eventually found a calling in funeral services and spent several years working with the House of Law- offering kindness and comfort to countless families in their times of grief.

Her final professional years were spent with the Legacy Arts Project, where she proudly worked with Patricia Ford, Naomi Ilochi, Shelley Fisher, Fode Camara and her daughters, Angel and Erin, serving as Administrative Specialist, Volunteer Coordinator, and Learn and Earn Manager. She found great joy in supporting the youth- helping them with fundraisers, rides, and college tours. Known affectionately as the grandmother of Legacy, she was loved deeply by the youth and their families for her generosity, encouragement, and unwavering support. 

Velva was a proud and devoted grandmother to seven grandchildren: Tyler, a Howard University graduate; Tyerin and Kyelin, forging their own unique paths; Marley, preparing for a career in nursing; Zosha, a blossoming musician; Ziah, strong-willed and determined; and Zahara, whose curiosity and intelligence reflect Velva's own. Each grandchild was her pride and joy, and she celebrated every milestone, big and small.

Velva departed this lifetime after a hard and bravely fought 7-year battle with cencer and is survived by her devoted husband, Tyrone PErry; loving children, Tyrone "Ty" (Tanay), Erin (Charles), and Angel; her beloved grandchildren; sister Eugenia; brother, Eugene; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

She was deeply loved, will be greatly missed, and will remain forever present in the hearts, minds, and spirits of all who know her.

Velva's gentle spirit, radiant smile, and quiet strength touched everyone she encountered. She lived with compassion, grace, and love-and her light continues to shine brightly through her family, friends, and the many lives she uplifted. 

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