Velle Reece Strain Garrison, 79, of Pendleton, SC peacefully passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025, at AnMed Medical Center.

She was born March 10, 1946, in Gaffney, SC and was a daughter of the late Hood Strain and the late Catherine Moore Strain. She was also predeceased by her brother, Eddie Strain.

Velle was a graduate of T.L. Hanna High School and received an associate's degree from Anderson College. She was the perfect loving mother to her three children, Cathy, Art, and Amy, and a devoted wife of 58 years, to her husband, Don. Being dedicated to her family, she did not pursue a career outside of the home until her children were well capable to care for themselves. She then began a twenty-year career as a teaching assistant at LaFrance Elementary. Velle not only forged everlasting friendships with her co-workers, but she also greatly impacted the lives of many children.

Soft-spoken and beautiful inside and out, Velle was always quick to help others and definitely exhibited a servant's heart in all she undertook. Always coiffed perfectly, never raising her voice, and genuinely caring more for others than herself, she was the epitome of a southern gentle lady. She loved shopping, designing and decorating her home. The mountain house was her favorite destination and her happy place. She loved the "girls" trips with her friends; the laughter, good food and wonderful fellowships. Those of us that had the fortune of being in her life, whether as wife, mama, nana, friend or neighbor, have experienced unselfish, and totally unconditional love. She will be greatly missed.

Velle is survived by her husband, Don Garrison; children, Cathy Campbell (Chad), Art Garrison (Leslie) and Amy Martin (Justin); grandchildren Chase Campbell (Adrianna), Cole Campbell, Trey Garrison, Maycee Garrison, Blake Martin (Bradleigh), and Kinlee Martin; great grandchildren, Cade and Reed Campbell and Copelyn Martin: sister, Joyce Poole; and many dear friends.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 11:00 am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. Rev. David Kay will officiate. The family will gather to speak with friends and family immediately following the service.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to the Anderson Cancer Association, 215 E. Calhoun St., Anderson, SC 29621, St. Jude's Children Research Hospital, www.stjude.org/donate or a charity of one's choice.

The family will be at the home.