Velda Mae Deal
Velda Mae Williams Deal, formerly of Anna, died peacefully in her home in San Antonio, Texas on Feb. 26, 2026, at the age of 91 with her family around her.
She was a cherished mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Born on Aug. 29, 1934, in Anna to Carl and Edna Hileman Williams. She lived her first 23 years in Anna, graduated from Anna-Jonesboro High School.
She was a risk taker and adventurer, being a part of the first girls basketball team at school.
In 1958 she married Charles E. Deal in Fort Sill, Okla. in a small ceremony at the military base chapel, taking on her new role as an Army Officer’s wife. They enjoyed over 20 plus years in the Army stationed across the United States and Europe.
They had three children from this union, Linda, Stephan and Christopher. Velda and Charles were married for 40 years until their divorce in 1998.
Velda was a devout southern Baptist and member of Trinity Baptist Church. She sang in the Living Christmas Tree for many years. She was also a member of the Northeast Baptist Church. She taught bible study, sang in the choir and assisted with vacation bible school.
Even in difficult times she kept her faith and loved the verse Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me”.
She loved working as a bookkeeper, bowling, square dancing, and travel. Velda spent her life devoted to family, friends, and community.
She will be remembered for her warmth, kindness and unwavering generosity. Velda's legacy is one of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to share in her journey.
She cherished her time with her grandchildren and had an active role in their lives, attending many football and baseball games, and school activities. She was always ready to take them on an adventure to discover new things or learn about history.
Velda is survived by her children, Linda Gonzales (Robert) and Christopher Deal (Stephanie), sister Vernetta Langston of Centralia, Ill., grandchildren Jason Owens, Kevin Owens (Nora), Hunter Deal (Holley), Brayden Deal, Chandler Deal, Robert J. Gonzales (Courtney), great grandchildren Mariella Owens (Conner), Amy Owens, Michael Hicks (Zellie), Christophe Chauret, Valkyrie Gonzales, Oden Gonzales, Cara Lee Gonzales and Henry Deal, great great grandchildren Lainey Chauret and Jeremiah Owens, nieces, nephew and cousins.
Velda was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Edna Williams; sisters, Leatrice Landis and Kathaleen Williams; son, Stephan Deal and husband Charles Deal.
A service to honor and celebrate Velda’s life was held on March 14, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice in her honor.