Veda Renshaw

Veda F. Smith Patterson Renshaw was born on April 24, 1930 and transitioned into eternal life on March 27, 2023 in Dayton, Ohio. Veda was a Springfield, Ohio native who was a retiree of the State of Ohio and Montgomery County. She was an ICONIC WOMAN to her family, community, and her friends. The best mother to her children and for many more who called her "mom/momma", a wife, a grandma, a sister, an auntie, a friend, a mentor to more people than we may ever know, a leader in the community, a protector, a provider, a singer, an educator involving current events and history, a motivator, and a caregiver.

We all know Veda loved her family, her friends, and  her politics. Every year she would campaign and wanted to make sure that everyone she came in contact with exercised their right to vote. During the 1960's Veda organized and launched the first chapter of the Republic of New Africa (RNA) In Springfield Ohio. She was a member of the Black Panther's in the 1960's and she was honoree and member of the New Black Panther's of 2000. Also in the 1960's Veda was a civil rights leader, and a member of the Freedom Riders who focused on the betterment of change for Then and Now. 

Again, I want to mention VEDA was an ICONIC BLACK WOMAN she organized and launched the first chapter of the Republic of New Africa (RNA) In Springfield, Ohio, and today an exhibit that recognizes and honors her accomplishments at the Sarah Gammon house, in Springfield, OH which is a part of the historical underground railroad.

Veda was one of 7 children born to Ernest and Dorothy Smith. She was preceded in death by her parents; her son John A. Patterson, two brothers Kenny Smith, Trent Smith, brother-in-law Howard Hurst, and sister-in-law Carole Smith. 

Veda leaves behind to mourn and cherish her memories; her daughter, Josunde (Joseph) Collins, her four sisters, Carole Hurst, Shirley Smith, Janice  Thompson, and Sara Tucker. Five grandchildren; Erin Patterson, Juacinta Kavanaugh, Aida Patterson, Juanisha Collins, and Juanelle Collins. Great grandchildren; Juamayne Kavanaugh, Juacinta Dewberry, and Great - great Grandchildren; Londyn White, and Shai Carson. Special sister/friends Nozipo Glenn and Faye Johnson. A host of nieces, nephews, and cousins that she loved so dearly.

Veda's LEGACY will never be forgotten!

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