Velma Rosetta Sims Hardwick, 75, passed away Nov. 1, 2017, at Merit Health Central in Jackson with family at her bedside.

Velma Rosetta Sims Hardwick was born March 25, 1942, to Martha Slaughter Sims and David Sims in Vicksburg.

From the union of Martha and David Sims, Velma has two surviving sisters and a brother, Thelma Sims Dukes, her twin, Gladys Mae Sims Cross and Henry Price.

Velma married Anderson “Andy” Hardwick and this year they celebrated 53 years of marriage.

Together, she and Andy raised three children, Kevin Hardwick (Carol-Jean Parke Hardwick), Rene’ Hardwick, and June Hardwick. Grandchildren are Janah Hardwick Hemphill (Lemarcus Hemphill), Joi Hardwick and Jenae Hardwick (twins), Justin Hefner, Jaela Hefner and Raha Maxwell. Great-grandchildren include Ayden McCoy Hardwick, Levi and Kiro Hemphill (twins), Jera Hemphill and Cali Samuels.

Velma is survived by many beloved nieces and nephews; numerous friends; as well as countless students over the years through her vocation in public and private education.

Velma will be remembered by close family and friends as “Dee Dee.” Her many friends and students will remember her as a teacher, mentor, and champion for change.

Velma was a member at Farish Street Baptist Church in Jackson.

A Celebration of Life service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, at the City Auditorium, 901 Monroe St. The Rev. Hickman Johnson will officiate and the Rev. Kevin Hardwick will provide the eulogy.

Visitation is Friday, Nov. 10, 2017, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lakeview Memorial Funeral Home, 2102 Clay St., 601-629- 3500.

Burial will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Vicksburg.

Lakeview Memorial Funeral Home in Vicksburg has charge of the arrangements.