Velva "Penny" Jane Gordon

Velva (Penny) Jane Gordon, a woman of grace and timeless elegance, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on November 9, 2025, at the age of 87.  Known for her impeccable style and deep love for the color purple, she brought beauty and friendship to every life she touched.

She was born on July 10, 1938, to Fisher and Daisy Norwood in Rodessa, Louisiana.  Fisher’s job moved the family to Alice when she was 5 and the town became the place she would call home for the rest of her life.  She grew up participating in dance, 4-H and home economics, and continued to use those skills throughout her life.  She graduated from William Adams High School in 1956 and married Monte Schumacher soon after in 1957.  They welcomed John Scott in 1959 and Pamela Jane in 1964. 

A woman of many interests, Velva lived life to the fullest. She attended modeling and business school, held jobs as a secretary, and sold real estate.  She spent many Saturday nights out dancing and could two-step, waltz and polka with the best.  Never one to pass up a trip she traveled to many places including Atlanta, Washington and more than a few cruises with dear friends.  She loved a good social and charitable organization and was active in, Beta Sigma Phi for 60 years, served as the Queen Mother of the Prissy Chicks Red Hat Club, Eastern Star and was always involved in her church.  After the loss of her first love, she met and married Red Gordon in 1999 and cared for him until his passing in 2021.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Monte,  second husband, Red Gordon, son, Scott, and granddaughter, Jacy Swann.  She is survived by daughter, Pam Johnson (Larry), granddaughter, Kelsey Wright (Tyler), and great grandchildren, Leighton Wright and Jase Swann and her beloved cat Missy.

The family would like to thank the exceptional caregivers who loved their Ms. Penny and took great care of her:  Anna, Amy, Angela, Anita, Olga, Misty, Kate, Kali, Jessica and all the staff at Good Tree. 

A Visitation will be held Friday, November 14, 2025  at Holmgreen Mortuary, 2061 E. Mail St. Alice, Texas from 1:00 PM- 2:00 PM with a Chapel Service at 2:00 PM followed by a Christian Burial at Sons of Hermann Cemetery. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Holmgreen Mortuary, 2061 E, Main St. Alice, Texas.

Condolences for the family may be offered at www.holmgreenmortuaryinc.com and shared via Holmgreen Facebook.

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