Velma Arledge Jones

Velma Arledge Jones, 83, departed this life on Sunday, January 18, 2026. She was born on September 9, 1942, and was the heart of her family — the glue that held everyone together and someone who always put her family first. She was the one who brought everyone together, offering wisdom and unconditional love. Her presence created a sense of home wherever she was. In addition to her love for family, Velma had a passion for travel. She delighted in exploring new places, creating memories along the way, and sharing stories from her adventures. Her legacy lives on through the family she so carefully held together, and the many memories made both at home and across the miles. Velma is survived by her children, Allison Thornton and Alton Dale Thornton, Jr. (Kerry). Velma was the proud grandmother of Caleb Thornton (Kaylen), Cole Thornton (Adele), Caroline Bertrand (Alex), Katherine Olinde, James Olinde, and Anna Olinde. She also leaves three great-grandchildren, Sophia and Henry Thornton and Charlotte Bertrand; a sister, Helen Arledge Harris, sister-in-law, Wendy Pariga Arledge, and brother-in-law, William Rader Edwards; and numerous nieces and nephews. Velma was preceded in death by her husband of 24 years, Larry Bruce Jones; parents, Lawrence and Lizzie Arledge; brother, Dudley Arledge; and sister, Mertis Arledge Edwards. Visitation will be at Seale Funeral Home in Denham Springs on Tuesday, January 20, from 10 a.m. until service at 12 p.m. Burial will be at Walker Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers are Caleb Thornton, Cole Thornton, Alex Bertrand, James Olinde, Travis Arledge, and Adrian Kelleher.