of Marion, AR
April 1, 1928 - January 21, 2024
Velma Virginia Baratti Fratesi, 95, of Marion, AR passed away peacefully on January 21, 2024 at Baptist Hospital Memphis following a brief illness.
Velma was born on April 1, 1928 to Fermina and M.C. Baratti, first generation Delta Italians. She graduated from Marion High School, where she would meet the love of her life and husband of 64 years, Joe Fratesi.
Velma and Joe farmed and raised their daughters in Marion, AR and lived there all of their lives. Velma loved to garden, was a talented seamstress and was a wonderful cook. She would mercilessly and unapologetically beat anyone at a game of cards. She was a woman of strong opinions and strong faith. She was a lifelong member of First Assembly of God Church, West Memphis, AR.
Velma was predeceased by her husband, Joe; her parents, Fermina and M.C. Baratti and her five sisters, Josephine Herr, Elizabeth Bosi, Vera Simonetti, Marie MacAskill and Patricia Seaton. She is survived by her daughters and sons in law, Leslie and David Peeples and Terre and Jim Greer; as well as her grandchildren, Channing Peeples and Collins Peeples (Leslie); as well as many dear nieces; nephews and cousins.
Visitation will be held at Roller Citizens Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 10am followed by a graveside service at Elmwood Cemetery in Memphis.
Velma's favorite charities, should friends or loved ones choose to make a donation in lieu of flowers, are St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Poor Clares of the Franciscan Monastery of Saint Clare.
Sign Guestbook
13 Condolence(s)
Gina
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Ive known Mrs. Fratesi for many many years of seeing her at the Pharmacy. She was by far my most favorite person and I am truly sorry to hear of her passing. My condolences to her lovely family. May she rest in peace.
Coree Maldonado
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
I had the pleasure of meeting this beautiful lady through my job as a server at Crossroads Cafe. From the moment she walked in her vibrant personality demanded the room. I was instantly drawn to her! Felt like I had known her my whole life. She told me about her wonderful husband & I got to meet many of her beautiful family members over the years. We really became friends. I genuinely look forward to seeing her in Heaven one day, where we can serve together. With Love- Coree
Becky Stephens
Sunday, January 28, 2024
I am so very sorry to learn of Ms Velma’s passing. We became fast friends through our Farm Bureau relationship. She always brightened my day. When I found out she was born on April Fool’s Day, I never failed to tease her about it. I can just hear her saying “You’re never going to let me forget that. Are you” My answer was always “Absolutely not!” She was a strong, strong person who although it might take a little while to strip away the many layers that she possessed, was a very caring and loving individual. I know she never got over missing Mr. Joe, who was also a gem, and she rejoiced when she got to reunite with her beloved husband. My deepest sympathy and heartfelt thanks for sharing her with me goes out to each of her cherished family members.
Cookie Baioni Anderson
Sunday, January 28, 2024
Dear Leslie and Terry: I’m so sorry to hear of your sweet momma’s passing. It has been many years since I had seen her, but not someone you forget. I remember our piano days fondly, and how sweet your mom was always to me. Always a smile and so friendly. What a long beautiful life and I send prayers for peace and comfort during this time. So hard losing our parents.
Deborah Duncan Thomas
Saturday, January 27, 2024
Velma and I would catch up on each other's families when we would see each other early morning at Kroger or Wal-Mart where I believe each and every employee knew her. She was a joy to me. My prayers are with you!
Demetria Banks
Friday, January 26, 2024
Terre, May God comfort and strengthen you and your family during this time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. DD
Carlyn Addison
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
May her memory forever be a blessing. Prayers to her family and all that knew and loved her.
jeanie hale martz
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Velma was a good friend of mine . The Hale family loved her. . You will be missed by all. Prayers for your family' love, Jeanie
Linda Thomas
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
So sorry to hear about Velma's passing. I really enjoyed our times together eating at Taco Bell. She was so interesting to talk to. She had a great sense of humor. She will be missed by those who really got to know her.
Sue Lott
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
My heartfelt sympathy to Terre and your family for the loss of your Mother. Prayers for Holy Spirit's comfort and peace through this sad time.
In His love,
Sue Lott
"Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted."
(Matthew 5:4)
Karen Lumpkin
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
My condolences to the family. Mrs Fratesi was a special one of a kind person.she was such a wonderful friend to me. We had some really good times and some great talks. I will miss her terribly. Prayers for all of the family.
Clancy Lancaster
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Mrs. Fratesi will be missed. I always enjoyed our conversations about our families and other subjects when she came by our office to take care of her business.
James Bond
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
So sorry to see her passing. She will be missed and be remembered for her outgoing personality and big smile. Hoping the family can find comfort with all of those great memories.