Obituary of Velma Ruth McGee

On September 15, 2013, Retired Major Velma R. McGee, 90, passed on to her glory. Major McGee was born in Wingham, Ontario, Canada on October 3, 1922, to the late James and Udora Weir McGee. Her family moved to the United States in 1926, settling in Cortland, NY.Major McGee entered her service with the Salvation Army in 1942 and became commissioned in 1943, retiring in 1980. During her years of service she was stationed in the Western New York area. Her last appointment was in Buffalo, where she served as the Financial Officer for the Seniors, going on many trips with the Golden Agers, both here and abroad. In retirement, she always enjoyed visiting with family and friends, and was known to play a mean game, or two, of Parcheesi.Major McGee is survived by her niece, Sharon (Rev. Edward) Bean, Bethlehem, PA; nephews, Stephen (Mary) Bump, Cortland; James (Norma), Clemons, NC; Robert, Cincinnatus; John (Diana), Tully; her foster daughter, Joanne (Robert) Wilson, Cortland and her niece Mary McGee. Also surviving are several great and great great nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Major McGee was predeceased by her brothers, Robert and James, her niece, Sue Mann, great nephew, Michael McGee and great great nephew joseph McGee.Services will be held on Tuesday, with calling hours 11 am €“ 12 pm, and the funeral following, at Wright Beard Funeral Home, 9 Lincoln Ave., Cortland. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, 138 S. Main St., PO Box 781, Cortland, NY 13045, or a charity of ones choice.The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at Cortland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their endearing care of Aunt Velma during her stay there. I met Major McGee when I was commissioned as an officer in 1966. Being appointed as assistant officer at the Buffalo Citadel Corps, I met Velma, who worked at the Golden Age Center as part of Divisional Headquarters. I remember assisting Major McGee with the Junior Soldier class. Her love for the children and faithful preparation for each class made a lasting positive impact on me. William Groff How I wish I could have been present to honor the ministry and life of Velma. Over the years she has had a very important place in my life and heart. Words are most inadequate for me. Please know of my prayers for all her family. God bless. Al Van Cleef