Velma June (Simmons) Lantz, age 86, of Franklin, WV, passed away on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Pendleton Manor. She was born on October 31st, 1939, in Zigler, WV, the daughter of the late Virgie Mae (Hartman) and Joseph Arvil Simmons. Velma married Arthur Guy Mitchell on October 19, 1962, who preceded her in death, and she later married Ned Lantz, who also preceded her in death.

Velma was a loving, hardworking woman. She stopped attending school after the 8th grade to work and help her parents and siblings, bringing in extra income to support their large family of 12. Velma began employment as a homemaker at the Mitchell Homestead in Upper Tract, WV. This is where she met her future husband and father of her children, Arthur Guy Mitchell.

After she was married, Velma was employed by various households and businesses in the town of Franklin as a housekeeper over the years. In her downtime, Velma enjoyed sewing, bird-watching, cooking, baking, puzzles, and spoiling her granddaughters as they were growing up. She loved classic country music, the Andy-Griffith show, and listening to the radio each morning as she enjoyed her coffee.

Velma leaves behind to cherish her memory: 2 daughters, Diana Mitchell of Franklin, WV, and Tina Mitchell (Jose Pomales) of Franklin, WV; a son, Arthur Guy Mitchell Jr. of Franklin, WV; two granddaughters, Maria Pomales (Theo Young) of Virginia Beach, VA, and Sara Dyche (Cody) of New Creek, WV; 2 sisters, Sally George of Riverton, WV, and Bonnie Simmons of Franklin, WV; 3 brothers, Perry Simmons (Linda) of Franklin, WV, George Simmons (Edna Lou) of Franklin, WV, and Lacy Simmons of Franklin, WV; 2 sister-in-laws, Annalee Mitchell of Franklin, WV and Lorella Mitchell of Circleville, WV; 2 great-grandsons, Garrett Dyche and Eli Dyche, both of New Creek, WV; and many nieces and nephews who were dear to her heart.

In addition to Arthur, Ned, and her parents, Velma was preceded in death by: a son, Robert Jackson Mitchell; 3 sisters, Shirley Alexander, Gilda Meadows, and Judy Simmons; and a brother, Reford Simmons.

Velma's family will receive friends on Saturday, October 10, 2026, 12-2 PM at the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin, WV. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM in the funeral home chapel, with Eddie Hammer officiating. Interment will be in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Franklin, WV. Memorials may be made to: Pendleton Manor or Grant County Hospice. Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com or on Facebook at Basagic Funeral Home.