Verma Lea (Strait) Welsh, of Ash Grove, departed this life on Saturday, January 13, 2018, at the age of 84.

Verma Lea was born on January 23, 1933 to Ernest Marvin and Mary Marie (Woods) Strait, in Lawrence County, MO.  Verma Lea and Jesse Lee Welsh were united in marriage on June 15, 1957 and shared over 60 years together.

Verma Lea was a lifelong area resident.  She graduated from Ash Grove High School in 1950 and then went on to Draughons Business College.  During her life she had several jobs, but one of her favorites was being a Vandea Beauty Counselor for over 50 years, but the job she was most known for was working in the Ash Grove School cafeteria.  Verma Lea was famous for her cinnamon rolls and hot rolls that she enjoyed sharing with church, community and school.  She was also known to always have special treasures in her purse for all the kids.  Verma Lea loved going to Branson to watch the music shows, especially the southern gospel groups.  She was a member of Ash Grove First Baptist for over 70 years.  Verma Lea was fiercely loyal to her church, community, school and family. She particularly loved the school song.  For many years she was part of the Ash Grove Health Care Facility Auxiliary and active in the PTA.  Above all, Verma Lea adored her family and loved spending time with them, especially her grandchildren.  She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all those that knew and loved her.

Verma Lea is survived by her loving family: husband, Jesse Lee Welsh of the home; two sons, Mark Welsh and wife Denise of Ash Grove, Marty Welsh and wife Melanie of Aldrich; 5 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; one brother, Roy Strait and wife Norma of Springfield; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Verma Lea was preceded in death by her parents; infant son, Myron Doyle Welsh; and sister-in-law, Karen Strait.

Visitation will be Friday, January 19, 2018 from 5:00PM-7:00PM at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove, MO.  Funeral services will be Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 2:00PM, in the funeral home chapel, with burial to follow in Ash Grove Cemetery, Ash Grove, MO.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ash Grove Care to Learn and may be left at the funeral home.

The family would like to thank Ash Grove Health Care Facility and CMH Hospice for the loving care that was provided to their mother.