Velma Speagle, age 70, of Olney, Illinois, and formerly of Clay County, passed away Saturday morning, March 3, 2018, at Carle Richland Memorial Hospital in Olney.

     She was born February 1, 1948, in Clay County, the daughter of Jesse and Hazel L. (O’Brien) Miller. She was married to Ernest Michael Speagle Sr. for over 44 years.

     Velma was a nurse’s aide and was employed at several healthcare facilities in Flora. She enjoyed the outdoors and going camping and fishing, picking blackberries, and also watching westerns and John Wayne movies. Her grandkids were very special to her and she loved seeing them. Velma attended Xenia Community Church in the past.

     She is survived by 7 children: Randy Miller (Sharon) of Dallas, Georgia, Martha Dulaney (Jim) of Leoma, Tennessee, Robert Berning (Corrina) of Xenia, Ernest Michael Speagle Jr. of Xenia, Gracie Speagle (Jon Majors) of Mt. Carmel, James Speagle of Xenia, and Ronald Speagle (Krystal) of Xenia; 13 grandchildren: Stephanie Harmon, Navin Harmon, Kristen Dulaney, Cheyenne Speagle, Amelia Speagle, Kya Speagle, Tucker Speagle, Clayton Speagle, Jesse Speagle, Sherra Miller, Shanda Elliott, Melissa Nicholas, and Trenton Janney; a number of great-grandchildren; 2 sisters: Faye Hatcher of Cisne and Lois Eastin of Flora; 1 brother: Bill Miller of LaClede; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son: Jesse Berning; 2 sisters: Kay Regino and Sue Tillman; and 2 grandchildren: Leo and Layla Speagle.

     A family memorial gathering is planned for the spring. No services will be held at this time. Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora assisted the family with arrangements. To share a memory or condolence with the family, visit www.frankandbright.com.