Velma Spray, of Sherman, Texas, was called to her heavenly home on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, at the age of 86. She was born, May 12, 1936, to Annie Laura and James Ezra Carpenter in Pittsburg, Texas, and moved to Dallas after graduating high school.

Velma raised her family in Dallas and Mesquite while working for Balfour for 20+ years. She loved all children and found great happiness in their company.  She loved animals and pets of all kinds, but she doted on her cats. She took in every stray she found and cared for them tirelessly. Her love of flowers and plants shined through. She could grow anything and made beautiful areas around her home filled with pottery and colorful flowers.

Her adventurous side came out from time to time, which was apparent when she retired from Balfour to be a long-haul truck driver with her husband, Butch. She got to see the nation, and those were exciting years for her.

She is survived by her children, Gina Busbice (Dale), James Stuart, Cindi Henry (James) and John Stuart; brother, Leon Carpenter; 15 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Velma was preceded in death by her husband, Ottist (Butch) Spray; sisters, Tommie Craft, Ruth Fisher, and Jean Lyles; brothers, J. Bruce Carpenter, Lloyd Carpenter, and Charles Carpenter; her mother and father.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2pm on Thursday, February 9, at Waldo Funeral Home Chapel in Sherman.

Memorial Gifts may be made to donor's local SPCA.

Online condolences may be made at www.waldofuneralhome.com .