Velva Wiley Hildebrand, 84, of Peach St., Ellwood City went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, September 1, 2013 surrounded by her loving family.
Born June 16, 1929 in Ellwood City, she was the daughter of the late Hobert H. and Clara Vogler Miller. She was married to the late F. Jay Wiley Sr. and then to the late J.C. “Jack” Hildebrand.
Velva was an extremely active member of the First United Methodist Church in Ellwood City. She proclaimed her love for the Lord through music, having sang in the choir for over 70 years. She was the former adult, children’s, and bell choir director. Velva also taught and was the music director for Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. She was a member of the Methodist Women having held numerous positions through the years. She was a member of the church’s quilting club, the soup kitchen and the leader of the prayer chain. Velva retired from J.C. Penney’s in Ellwood City.
Survivors include two sons, F. Jay (Florence) Wiley Jr, Jeffrey J. (Debra) Wiley, both of Ellwood City; two daughters, Joan A. Ritzert of Ellwood City, Jeanne L. (Mark) Snyder of New Castle; sister, Carolyn Sarver of Ellwood City, brothers, Ray (Carolyn) Miller of Kingsport, TN, Tom (Becky) Miller of Clarion; sister in law, Thelma Miller of Ellwood City; 18 grandchildren; and 30 great grandchildren.
In addition to her husbands, she was preceded in death by daughter, Linda Lou Wiley, son, Gerald R. “Jerry” Wiley, brother Hobert J.C. Miller and a sister, Marion Martin.
Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday September 3 from 4:30 until the time of the funeral service at 6:30 pm at the First United Methodist Church in Ellwood City. Her pastor, Rev. Jim Cannistraci will officiate. Interment will follow in the Locust Grove Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Marshall Funeral Home, Ellwood City. Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com.
Velva was a vital part in our Annual Senior citizen’s retreat.at Olmsted Manor. Her music was her love and it was a gifts so freely given to all of us. We will miss her and send our love and prayers to all the family.
She lived her life as a testament of God’s love. Her faith was unshakable and we were so blessed to have her as our Grandma. She will be missed every day, but we will cherish the memories and know she is watching over us. Love you Gram.
Jeanne and family, so sorry to hear about your mom. You have my deepest sympathy and my prayers are with you.
I was very proud to know Velva. She was a great lady, and a true woman of God. I am so sorry for your loss, Wiley Family. Know that we are with you in our hearts.
Jay, Joan, Jeanne & Jeff,
I am so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She was like a second mother to me as I was growing up. I have many fond memories from childhood of things our families did together. Things like “family week” at Jumonville, cottages on Lake Erie and family barbeques in the back yard.
I wish you the peace of God as you go through your grieving of this lovely lady.
I am sorry to hear of your loss. Velva was an important part of my growing up at the First United Methodist Church.