Velma Jean Moddison

Velma Jean Moddison, 88, died on May 8, 2012, at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center in Palmer, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

A celebration of life is at 2 p.m., May 15 at The Salvation Army Mat-Su Valley Corps in Palmer. An additional celebration is at 2 p.m., May 21 at Primrose Retirement Community in Wasilla. All are invited to attend and share their memories of Velma.

Velma was born Jan. 23, 1924, in Minok, Ill. to Clarence and Olive Akridge. The second of five children, Velma was educated in Peoria, lll., and graduated nurses training in Chicago, Ill. She made Alaska her home in 1953, initially working as a nurse at the old Providence Hospital on 9th Avenue in Anchorage.

She met her husband, C.L. (Tiny) Moddison, while working with his sister at the Bureau of Land Management as a photo developer. They were married Sept. 1, 1958, in a small ceremony in Cordova and went moose hunting for their honeymoon.

For more than 25 years, Velma and Tiny ran the largest ceramic shop in the state, The Alaska Mud Puddle/Stoneware Kitchen. She was an accomplished ceramic artist, winning numerous awards in state competitions. She also taught many classes on ceramics. She helped organize and run the ceramic show for the Fur Rondevous for many years.

Velma became active in The Salvation Army in 1964 and became a Senior Soldier in 1975. She held such leadership positions as Home League Secretary and Home League Advisor, as well as other leadership positions. Velma enjoyed crafting and made countless beautiful quilts.

Surviving by her daughters, Tanna Moddison of Wasilla, Ila Farley of Sterling Ill., and Carolyn Grafton of Oklahoma; and her son, Dale Oldham of Oklahoma. She is also survived by eight grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; her caring friends at Primrose Retirement Community; those who cared for her at The Salvation Army; and “adopted son” Michael Stanelle.

Preceding her in death was her loving husband of 48 years, Tiny Moddison; parents, Clarence and Olive Akridge; her daughter, Idonna; her sister, Edith Tornow; and brothers, Clifford, Vernon and Larry Akridge.

Her smile, loving heart and generous ways will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, send donations to The Salvation Army Mat-Su Valley Corps, P.O. Box 1106 Palmer, AK 99645.