Velvamine Adams Parham

Velvamine Adams Parham, a cherished wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026, at Wayne Memorial Hospital in Goldsboro, North Carolina. She was 72 years old. Born on August 11, 1953, in the historic town of Petersburg, Virginia, Velvamine was a beacon of love and kindness to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Velvamine was the beloved daughter of the late Elmyra Brown and George Adams, Jr. She was also preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, John A. Brown and Annie B. Hill Brown, her sister Jacqueline B. Edwards, nephew Shawn A. Brown, beloved maternal aunts Rose Gilliam, Mary E. Brown, Margaret Taylor, Beatrice Pettiway, Theresa Brown, Lettie Threatt, uncles Raymond Brown, Sr. and James Brown, as well as several cherished cousins. Each of these family members played a significant role in shaping the compassionate and resilient woman she became. A proud graduate of Prince George County Public Schools, Velvamine carried a lifelong passion for learning and community engagement. Her heart was as vast as her knowledge, and she dedicated her life to nurturing the relationships she held dear. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion through her surviving family members: her loving husband, Roger Parham Sr., who stood by her side through life's joys and challenges; her treasured daughters, Jewell Massenburg (Ryan) of South Chesterfield, Virginia, Jakael Lee of Petersburg, Virginia, and her devoted daughter, Juaneika T. Shands of Chester, Virginia, who all carry forward her warmth and values. She was also a caring stepmother to Latoya Shand (and husband) of Stony Creek, Virginia, and Roger Parham Jr. and Lindsey Parham. Velvamine's brother, Danny Adams (Myra) of Durham, North Carolina, survives her, carrying forward the family spirit that Velvamine cherished so deeply. Her family was her pride and joy, and she poured her heart into ensuring each member knew how deeply they were loved. To honor Velvamine's remarkable life, a celebration of her memory will be held on July 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church, located at 20800 Templeton Rd., Carson, Virginia. Family and friends are invited to join in commemorating her life, reflecting on the beautiful moments she shared, and supporting one another in this time of remembrance. Velvamine Adams Parham's life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and community. Her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. As we gather to celebrate her life, we carry with us the lessons she taught and the love she spread, ensuring her memory will forever be a guiding light.