DASHIELL,
Valerie Leigh
(Maiden Name: Smith)
Published by Legacy Funeral Home - Chandler Chapel on Sep. 8, 2022 -
Chandler, Arizona -
Valerie Leigh Dashiell (n e Smith), born October 14, 1949 in Detroit,
Michigan, passed away September 4, 2022, in Chandler, Arizona with her
family by her side. She is survived by her beloved husband, James (Jim);
her son, Branden; her daughter and son-in-law, Courtney and Ray Lorentz;
her grandchildren, Audrey and Whitney; her loving sister, Kimberly (Kim)
Albrecht and Kim s family; as well as her many nieces and nephews.
Valerie graduated from Seaholm High School in Birmingham, Michigan in
1967, and from Central Michigan University in 1971. She and Jim married
on April 1, 1972, and celebrated their 50th anniversary earlier this
year. Before starting their family, Valerie taught second and third
grade in Michigan. She also taught preschool in Illinois for over 30
years, primarily at Trinity Nursery School in Wilmette, Illinois.
Val touched the lives of countless children and families with her gifted
and inspirational teaching style and unconditional love. A talented
flautist, Val would captivate her classroom by playing music from
In addition to her skill as a teacher, dedication as a wife and mother,
and flair as a homemaker, Valerie was an exceptional dancer. She loved
to throw parties, cook delectable meals, have fun, and care for others.
She was captain of the majorettes in high school and served as social
coordinator for her sorority, Delta Zeta. One particularly memorable
soiree she loved to recount involved hayrides at a local farm in Mt.
Pleasant, Michigan.
In 1982, Valerie founded the soup kitchen at Hemenway United Methodist
Church, which still serves the community to this day. Valerie is adored
and cherished by all her friends and family. To know her is to love her.
The world has lost a beautiful soul, but heaven has gained an angel.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to express sympathy may consider
making a donation to Hemenway United Methodist Church in Valerie's name:
https://hemenwayumc.com/giving
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Dashiell, please visit Tribute Store