Velma Dianne Archie Fields filled any room she entered with her joyous spirit, distinct laugh, and infectious smile. Her heart was one that actively loved her close-knit family, writing poetry, music, her nursing profession, and dutifully serving in the church. Most importantly, her heart loved God and she lived by His promises.  Born on January 10, 1945, as the fourth child of the late Charles & Ella Ruth Archie in Winston- Salem, NC, Velma was one of nine bright and shining stars. Velma traded her earthly presence for eternal life with our Lord and Savior on Friday, May 26, 2023.

She was a member of Paisley High School class of 1963 where she played her beloved clarinet in the band. She was also a proud alumna of Winston-Salem State University, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She was recognized as a Registered Nurse by the North Carolina Board of Nursing in 1968. Much of her career was spent in the operating room at then North Carolina Baptist Hospital.  She also served as a Nursing Instructor at Forsyth Technical Community College; Client Coordinator for Senior Services for Meals on Wheels; and worked in several other capacities.  Velma's hard work was recognized several times for her impact through Who's Who of America.

On July 29, 1972, Velma married the love of her life, Herrell Fields, Sr. They shared a love of creativity and Saturday trips to yard sales and flea markets.  They also shared a commitment to raising their children, Sherri, Herrell, Jr, and LaShonda. Over time, that commitment extended to their grandchildren, Jamari, Justin, Zonnttá, Faith, Kanayiah, Zion, Zulay, and Zoe.  Velma and Herrell Sr. celebrated 50 years of love & devotion to one another in 2022.

As a faithful member, Velma was ordained as a Deacon of Emmanuel Baptist Church under Rev. Dr. John Mendez, where she served as a sign language interpreter for the deaf and the Editor of the "The Informer" newsletter for many years, among other leadership duties. She was a member of the Chi Chi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated. She received a Certificate of Achievement in Medicine in 2001 through Effort Club at New Bethel Baptist Church, Race Progress Promoters Program.  She was a theatre guild member of the NC Black Repertory Company and served multiple years as a volunteer nurse "Nightingale" of the National Black Theatre Festival. Velma was also featured in the book "Crowns: Portraits of Black Women in Church Hats"; it was the perfect example of unshakeable faith in God and her signature style.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents, Charles & Ella Ruth Archie, siblings, Richard Archie and Rev. Conita A. Hunt, and son-in-law, Staphon Debnam.  Her delightful spirit will be deeply missed by her husband, Herrell Sr, children, Sherri Debnam, Herrell Fields Jr. and LaShonda "Dee" Fields Hairston; siblings, Edwin (Reba) Archie, Carolyn Archie, Floyd Bernard (Diane) Archie, Marvis Jean Johnson, Elvita A. (Reverend Dr. James) Hunt, and Charles "Terry" (Yvonne) Archie; grandchildren, Jamari Debnam, Justin (Uriah Cummings) Debnam, Zion Hairston, Zulay Hairston, Zonnttá Manns, Faith Hatton, Kanaiyah Hardy and Zoë Fields; and a multitude of nieces and nephews, extended family, friends, and loved ones.

A Celebration of Life for Velma Fields will be held on Monday, June 5, 2023, at Emmanuel Baptist Church. A family visitation hour will begin at Noon followed by funeral service at 1pm. Interment will follow at Piedmont Memorial Gardens.

Mrs. Fields remains may be viewed Saturday June 3, 2023 from  11am-5pm at the funeral home and also Sunday June 4, 2023 from 10am-6pm at the funeral home.