Lucille "Velma" Sorrows

Lucille "Velma" Sorrows, a beloved matriarch, departed this world on September 2, 2025, at the age of 91, in Sherwood, Arkansas. Born on October 19, 1933, in Monte Vista, Colorado, Velma was a beacon of love and strength, embodying the essence of motherhood with a heart of gold that touched the lives of everyone she met.

Velma dedicated 40 years of her life to the Department of Human Services, where she found joy in serving those around her. She cherished her role in the annual "Ginger Bread Tree," taking immense pride in helping children receive the perfect gifts. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her professional life; she was the family’s guiding light, always fostering connections and traditions.

Among her fondest memories were the annual trips back to Albuquerque with her children when they were young. Velma reveled in the simple joys of life, she loved going to the beach with her daughter, Dawana, where their laughter echoed even as she painstakingly made her way to the shade of the umbrella—an hour’s journey that was always worth it to be with her family. Dining out was another great pleasure for her, especially at Golden Corral and Sweet Papa's BBQ, where she would insist on treating everyone, determined to cover the bill herself.

Velma’s love for her family was evident. She loved spending time doing things her family enjoyed. She showed her support at countless pool games, following her daughter and grandsons to Las Vegas. Easter brought her unique flair for celebration as she filled plastic eggs with money, creating joyful hunts for the grandchildren. She had a passion for television as well, often found watching “The Price is Right,” “Let's Make a Deal,” and “Judge Judy”.

Velma was known not only for her kindness but also for her spirited personality. Though she was petite in stature, she encompassed a love so immense that it resonated deeply with all. Her unwillingness to shy away from honesty earned her a reputation for speaking her mind, complemented by a fierce sense of protectiveness over her loved ones.

Moreover, her home became a sanctuary for family gatherings, as she hosted Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas celebrations with unmatched zeal, often undertaking the cooking herself. Velma’s love extended to thoughtful gestures, including mailing birthday cards with a little money tucked inside to celebrate each special occasion. She made sure that every guest left her home with a warm hug, an “I love you,” and the comforting sight of her waving goodbye from the door.

Velma shared a beautiful, enduring love with her late husband, Abner "Junior" Sorrows, whom she married in August 1952. Together, they represented the ideal of companionship, best friends who weathered both the joys and challenges of life together. A devoted follower of her faith, Velma never missed church, even while traveling. She was proud of her self-sufficiency and loved sharing moments by her backyard pond with her grandchildren, who often came to fish and create everlasting memories.

She is survived by her children, Steve Sorrows, Ricky Sorrows (Bea), Lance Sorrows (Linda), Dawana Sorrows, and Jimmy Sorrows; her grandchildren, Noelle Harper (Matt), Devin Sorrows, Keely Morales (Edgar), Austin Sorrows (Rachel), Stephanie Pinkston (Jason), Kimberly Street (Adam), Charlie Lang (Richard), Ryan Sorrows, Justin Webb (Peter), Jeremy Webb, Blake Rice, and Ethan Rice; and her great-grandchildren Katherine, Hannah Jo, Brayden, Casey, Christian, Parker, Jackson, Emma, Easton, Hunter, Fisher, Raelynn, and three yet to be born; as well as great-great-grandsons Arlo and Roman.

Velma now joins her husband, Abner "Junior" Sorrows, as well as her parents, Marcelino and Amalia Trujillo, 11 siblings, and her son, Abner "Jerry" Sorrows, and daughter, Denise Sorrows Patterson, along with her grand daughter, Abby Sorrows. While her physical presence may no longer grace us, her warm spirit and unwavering love will forever resonate within the hearts of her family and friends.

A Rosary will be held on September 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM, followed by visitation at 6:30 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in North Little Rock. A Mass will be celebrated on September 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, leading to her burial at Rest Hills Cemetery at 12:00 PM.

As we reflect on a life so beautifully lived, let us remember Velma's resilience, laughter, and boundless love. Her spirit remains, forever guiding those she cherished, assuring us, as only she could say, “I’ll be fine.”