Velma Lee Houston ("Cookie") was born July 18th, 1943 to Arlean Taylor and Riley Edwards in Hollandale, Mississippi. She received and accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at a young age in Hollandale, Mississippi.

She was more than happy to be a central figure in the lives of many children, friends, and strangers.
Velma deeply cared for her family, friends, and neighbors, not out of obligation but because of who
she was. She ensured everyone who crossed her path was healthy, happy, and loved.

On December 29th, 2023 at 7:05am Velma Houston was called to glory surrounded by her family.

Proceeding her in death: Willie Houston, her Mother and Father, her daughter Demetrious Houston, her two sons Andre Houston and Anthony Edwards, her two brothers Larry Taylor and Uncle AB, and her cousin Claudette Carter.

Her life, legacy, and love will continue to be celebrated by her sister Jeanette Taylor, her daughters Sophia Edwards and Gloria Houston, her grandchildren Oriana Houston (Alondro Morgan), Woody Houston, Domonique Houston, Brandon Barkstall,Serenity Cole, Mariah Houston, Shamus French, Wryan Cole, and her great grandkids Erika (Chris Neal), Kato, Martel, Angelo, Barkstall, Lil Andre, Christopher Luke Jr. Phoenix Morgan, Kayson Neal, Sophie Houston, Kyrie Houston, and Treasure Houston and a host of other relatives and friends.