Velma L. Cudgel, a radiant soul who graced this world for 95 years, peacefully passed away on December 28, 2023. Born on February 11, 1928, in Union Springs, AL, to the proud parents Booker and Mayme Walker, Velma’s journey through life was a tapestry woven with love, dedication, and the beauty of simplicity.

At an early age, Velma moved to Akron, where she was educated at Akron Public Schools and proudly graduated from old West High School. The beginning of a remarkable 40-year career unfolded at BF Goodrich, where she left an indelible mark on both her colleagues and the company.

It was during this chapter of her life that she met and married Charles Cudgel. United in marriage, their union flourished, giving rise to the joyous presence of three beautiful children—Trent, Valerie, and Zenobia Cudgel. Velma’s commitment to family and the unwavering love she showered upon her children defined her essence.
A devoted member of Antioch Baptist Church, Velma found solace and strength in her faith. Her connection to the divine echoed in the love and kindness she shared with those around her, creating a ripple effect of warmth that touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Velma’s life was a testament to the beauty found in simplicity. She reveled in the simple pleasures of life, finding fulfillment in nurturing her garden and maintaining a home that radiated warmth and love.

As we bid farewell to this remarkable soul, let us celebrate the legacy of Velma L. Cudgel—a woman who lived a life adorned with love, blunt honesty and opinion, devotion, and a profound appreciation for the beauty that exists in the everyday. May her memory continue to bloom in our hearts, much like the flowers she lovingly tended to in her cherished garden. Velma’s spirit will forever dance in the gentle rustle of leaves and the vibrant hues of a sunlit sky, reminding us, that love, in its purest form, is eternal.

She is preceded death by her parents, Booker and Mayme Cudgel; daughter Zenobia Cudgel; brothers, Booker Walker II and Robert Walker; sisters, Thelma Bowen, Annie White, Mary Thompson, Zenobia Bower, and Mayme Stephens.

She leaves to mourn her passing; son, Trent Cudgel, daughter, Valerie Dorsey; four grandchildren, Rodney Sherman (Cudgel), Nikol Cudgel- White, Bronson Cudgel of Arizona; six great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and special friend, Carl Love.