In Memoriam: Vera Lee English

Vera Lee English was born on September 24, 1935 in Dallas, Texas to Gladys and Eddie Ray Taylor. She was the eldest of nine children born to this union.

As a young girl, Vera was introduced to and accepted her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and embodied the best qualities of a God fearing woman.

She received her education in the Dallas Independent School District before pursuing her interest in cosmetology. She went on to receive her cosmetology license from Velma B’s Cosmetology School and opened Pink Palace Beauty Salon, in Dallas, TX.

Vera was a Godly woman who loved to serve her Lord and Savior fearfully. She exemplified a faith and strength that was unparalleled.

She furthered her education at Dallas Baptist College in Theological and Biblical Studies. She became a member at Progressive Baptist Church where she served for years under the leadership of the late Reverend Spears and remained a dedicated member under the new leadership of Pastor Wyatt.

Vera was part of numerous organizations at the church including Mission 1, The Golden Girls Choir, Co-Chair person of the Church Anniversary Program, Chairperson of President of Pastors Aide, Chairperson of the hospitality committee, the Outreach Ministries, and Chair- person of the student scholarship program that included awards such as the John Wiley Price Scholarship, The Regina Taylor Scholarship, and the late Shirley Medlock Scholarship.

She met and married Donall English Sr. on May 27, 1953 and lovingly served him as his wife, fulfilling their vows until his passing. Together they raised two children, Donall English, Jr and then, Ms. Sandra English, whom she deeply adored. She especially loved to travel with Sandra and proudly doted on Donall Jr.

She was the owner of the Pink Palace Beauty Salon in Dallas, TX where she loved to make her clients feel welcomed and beautiful. She was known for carrying herself with grace and poise.

Vera had an exquisite style that she would accent with bold accessories and flattering hairstyles. She was affectionately known as the “Diva Auntie.”

Vera participated and won numerous hair shows and pageants and decorated her home with the trophies and certificates recognizing her talents throughout the years.

She loved to spend time with her family and would always be present at all the family events.

She was the second mother to all of her nieces and nephews.

Vera had a heart of gold, her smile and soft spoken voice would light up any room she walked in. To know “Mrs. Vera” was to understand her love for her faith, family and salon was everything to her. Words could not express the anguish and sadness left in the hearts of her family and friends.