Velma Ann Labrum Tew happily returned to her Heavenly parents, relatives and friends after completing her assignments in this earthly sphere on April 12, 2010. She was the daughter of Alva L. and Neta Brown Labrum, born Oct. 26, 1924 in Cedarview, UT. After several moves throughout Oregon, Washington, and Utah, where Velma graduated from Richfield UT High School, the family moved to Seattle, WA. She met and married Elmo Arthur Tew, Jan 26, 1943, in the Salt Lake Temple. They spent most of their married life in the West Seattle area. They were blessed with seven beautiful children. Velma's life work and greatest accomplishment was her beloved family. She treasured each one. She once wrote, "As I sit and reflect on the life I've had, my heart rejoices. I count the blessings - like coins in my hand - what rich treasures. And as I polish each little thought, I put it in a pile, giving thanks for joy it's brought ." recounting each beloved child. Velma had a great love for her Savior, Jesus Christ, for His gospel and her membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She spent many years in giving Church service as a temple worker, Relief Society and Primary for Ward and Stake officer and teacher, visiting teacher, organist and other callings. She completed two missions; to North Carolina, Raleigh and Ohio, Columbus mission. Velma liked to walk, garden, camp, and be out in this beautiful world. She became an accomplished artist with a desire to portray and help others see and enjoy this glorious world. She was a thoughtful and loving friend, helping anyone at need. She loved to work - to be busy. She preferred to wear out rather than to rust out - and she was blessed to be able to work each day of her life until very shortly before her death. She worked to build a business that would benefit others with needed funds for missions or school, or daily living. Velma loved beautiful music. It had an impact in her life. The songs in this service were special to her. "I Know that My Redeemer Lives" was the one she sang as a solo for Seminary graduation; "Love One Another" was first introduced at a conference she attended; and "The Lord's Prayer" closed her day. She enjoyed singing in many groups and playing the organ. She appreciated the people who shared their talents in concerts at the Tabernacle and elsewhere. If there was anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, she sought after these things. Velma had a great desire to be more Christ-like in her dealings with others. She tried each day to live this great principle. She wanted very much to live by the Spirit - to follow the Savior. She was very thankful for her testimony of Him and His gospel. She felt a great bond of gratefulness and love for her pioneer ancestors who sacrificed so much in joining the Church and made it possible for her to also know and love it, to know and love her Heavenly Father and His Son. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and its message of hope and love were very dear to her. Her great desire was to endure to the end in righteousness for herself and all her descendants.
Velma has gone to meet her parents and four siblings, her husband, Art Tew, 3 children: David Tew, Dianne Rodgers, and Ricky Tew; son-in-law Barry Nielsen, daughter-in-law Sandy Tew, grandson Daniel Brewer, grandson-in-law Kyle Brown, and great-granddaughter Christianna Scott, and other relatives and friends.
Survived by 4 children: Donna Nielsen of Dinosaur, CO; Allan (Diane) Tew of Santa Clara, UT; Marilyn Brewer of Wichita Falls, TX; and Steve (Peggy) Tew of Houston, TX; son-in-law Richard Rodgers of Phoenix, AZ, sister-in-law Helen Labrum, 27 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, various cousins, nieces and nephews, and many wonderful friends.
Velma made many quilts and other items to donate to the LDS Church Humanitarian program. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to LDS Humanitarian Fund.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Main Street LDS 13th Ward Chapel, 166 S. Main St., St. George, Utah. Visitations will be held Monday, April 19th from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd. and on Tuesday from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. at the chapel, prior to services. Interment will be at held Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. the Washington Memorial Park in SeaTac, Washington. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221.