Velma Victoria Barber

Velma Victoria (Altergott) Barber, 77, passed away peacefully at home on November 27th, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 3, 1947, in Bay City, Michigan, to the late David and Arlene Altergott. On July 1, 1965, Velma married the love of her life, Lynn Barber, with whom she shared 58 wonderful years until his passing in 2024.

Velma worked at Golden Horizons Assisted Living until her retirement in 2012. She was cherished by her coworkers, who affectionately called her “Betty Boop.” Known for her vibrant spirit, Velma brought energy and joy wherever she went. To know her was to love her. Endlessly competitive, she never turned down a hula hoop contest or an arm-wrestling match. Family time was everything to her. She loved camping up north, riding dirt bikes, and making lifelong memories with her loved ones. An accomplished bowler, she earned numerous trophies and medals throughout the years. Velma could shop for hours, made friends everywhere she went, and was famous for baking birthday cakes, Christmas cookies, and her beloved rock candy, which she graciously shared with friends and family. Music was her heartbeat. Velma adored Motown and was always the first one on the dance floor. Her motto, “Shake Your Booty,” perfectly captured her fun-loving, vivacious personality. Above all, Velma cherished her family, She was a devoted mother and a very proud Nana. Her warm, energetic, life-of-the-party presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Velma is survived by her children Michelle (Mick) Goik, Jennifer (Jon) Charters, and Randy (fiancé Tiffiny) Barber; her grandchildren Conner and Callie VanMullekom, Gavin and Sophie Goik, Claudia and Amelia Barber, and Sawyer Eager; and her sisters-in-law Debbie Altergott and Marilyn Charbonneau. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Lynn Barber; her brothers Wesley and David Altergott; her sister Valerie Barber; her grandson Taylor L. Goik; and her loyal companion dog, Diego.

Velma’s memory will live on in the laughter she inspired, the love she shared, and the music she never stopped dancing to. She faced Alzheimer’s with courage and fought until her final breath.

The family extends a heartfelt thank-you to her caregiver Amanda LaCross and the entire Optimal Hospice Team for their compassionate care and loving support.

A Funeral Service will take place at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at Gephart Funeral Home Friends may visit with the family on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. A private inurnment will take place at a later date at Heavenly Rest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be considered to The Alzheimer’s Association.