Velma Lakey Rackley, 81, of Brevard, NC passed away Sunday August 30, 2009 at Transylvania Regional Hospital. She was a loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. A joy to all. "She gave me love, as well as life; so whatever goodness may bring to Earth began with the gift of my mother's heart." She was born August 19, 1928 in Graham County, Stecoah Township, NC to the late James and Ola Carver Lakey. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by an infant son Joseph Charles Rackley. Mrs. Rackley was of the Baptist Faith. She was a charter member of Calvary Baptist Church of Brevard, NC. She was employed by Ecusta for over ten years. Survivors include, husband of 61 years, J. Franklin Rackley, daughter Deborah R. Schlunz and husband James of Winston Salem, NC. Sister Faye Lakey Cole and husband Max of Knoxville, TN. One granddaughter Kate Meredith Schlunz and one grandson Samuel James Schlunz, both of Winston Salem, NC. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 2, 2009, at 3:00 PM at Moody-Connolly Funeral Home with Rev. Steven Moore and Ted Burnette officiating. Burial will follow in Pisgah Gardens. The family will receive friends from 1:00 till 2:45 PM prior to the services. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 120 Executive Park # 1, Asheville, NC 28801.