Velva Irene Spence, 96, second child of Leo and Alice (Ryersee)Gish, was born in West Plains, MO on January 30,1914, at the home of her paternal grandparents. She attended Alexander grade school and graduated from Alexander High School in 1931 and then attended Hays State College for one year before she began teaching school in a one-room country school.

In 1941 she moved to California. During World War II she worked as a dispatcher at Lockeed Aircraft Co. where she met her husband Robert Lewis Spence. He preceded her in death. In 1950 Velva and her family moved to Bazine where she taught school
at Bazine Elementary. In 1993 she moved to New Orleans, to live with her son until her death on June 16, 2010. She was the last survivor of the Leo Gish family.

Survivors include her son, Jim; daughter, Janet; five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Intement will be in the Bazine Cemetery on September 17, 2:00 p.m. A memorial dinner (Celebration of Life) will be held at the American Legion, Ness City, immediately following the interment. All friends, family, and former students are cordially invited.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Cedar Village Activity Fund, Ness City, Kansas.