With heavy hearts, we announce the transition of Vernice Artis to be with her Heavenly Father on November 6, 2024. Born on April 29, 1951, Vernice was the cherished daughter of the late Robert Earl Eley, Sr. and Minnie Copeland Eley.

Vernice was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charlie Artis, her cherished daughter, Tina Monea Eley, as well as her sister Anne E. Lewis, brother George C. Eley, and sisters-in-law Lee Ester Eley and Betty Jean Harden-Eley, and brothers-in-law Herbert Carr and Wilbert Carr.

She leaves behind a loving family who will carry her memory in their hearts: her three sons, Michael Eley (Sylvia) of Suffolk, Mark Eley (Gwen) of Portsmouth, and Charles Artis of Suffolk; stepchildren Charlie Artis, Jr., Tammy Steele, and Angela Williams; and three sisters, Agnes Copeland (Elmore), Minnie M. Carr, and Caffee Carr, all of Suffolk, VA. Vernice is also survived by three brothers, Robert E. Eley, Jr. (Mary), Raymond Eley, and Bobby Eley (Debra), all of Suffolk, VA.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Denzel Norman, Shamika Owens, Alexis Hill, Octavia Beale, Thorja Jennings, and Rayven Clark, along with her great-grandchildren: Nevaeh Brown, Jervell Blick, Dezyre Perry, Azyia Perry, Mariah McKoy, and Antwan McKoy, and a host of neices, nephews, cousins and friends.

Vernice had a passion for gardening and decorating, finding joy in the beauty of nature and the warmth of family gatherings. Known for her quiet, laid-back demeanor, she possessed a unique way of demonstrating her care for others. Her gentle spirit and loving nature will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

As we celebrate her life, we take comfort in the memories she created and the love she shared. Vernice Artis’s legacy will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.