Velma J Phenis

Velma J. Phenis, 75, of Walkerton, passed away peacefully in her home on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, following an illness. Born on May 21, 1951, in LaPorte, Indiana, Velma was the daughter of the late Ivan Singleton and Valda (Hendricks) Tener. She spent most of her life in the Walkerton area, where she became known for her kind heart, caring spirit, and just the right amount of sass that brought smiles to those who knew and loved her. On September 18, 1971, in Walkerton, she married the love of her life, Pete Phenis. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family until his passing. Velma was a former library clerk at the Walkerton Public Library, where she enjoyed serving her community. She was also a past member of Walkerton Bible Baptist Church. She found great joy tending to her beautiful flowers, listening to the peaceful melodies of her beloved wind chimes, and spending time at home. While she appreciated the simple pleasures in life, nothing brought her greater happiness than being surrounded by her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of her world, and she loved each of them with all her heart. Her nurturing nature, unwavering devotion, quick wit, and sassy personality will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Velma is survived by her three daughters, Dawn (Jim McCool), Crystal (Jason Yoder) Singleton, and Kim (Terry) Gainer; eight grandchildren, Allen (Nicole) McCool, Kurtis (Lacy) Singleton, Cassie (Darrius) Breveard, Sammy (Jessica) Singleton, Desirea (Alex) Gainer, Nick (Kayla) Singleton, Kelly (Jacksyn) McCool, and Hanna Gainer; and sixteen cherished great-grandchildren: Ca’Leigha, Caspian, a great-grandson expected in October, Kiaria, Axel, Mia, Aspen, Amara, Branson, Layla, Alalah, Anthony, Ashlynn, EvaLee, Kingstyn, Navy, and Emerie. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Pete Phenis; three precious great-grandchildren, Amity and Killian McCool and Jack Gainer; three brothers, George, Jim, and Larry Singleton; five sisters, Phyllis, Doris, Ramona, Ida, and Glenna; and her stepfather, Ralph Tener. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. EDT on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Rannells Funeral Home, Koontz Lake Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. EDT on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the funeral home, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Walkerton. Though her family grieves her loss, they find comfort in the countless memories she created through her unconditional love, gentle care, spirited personality, and the lasting legacy of family she leaves behind. will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Walkerton.

Velma J Phenis

May 21, 1951 - July 1, 2026