Vallie Mae Vanburen

She was born on April 6, 1933 in Fulton, Mo. to the late Valley Edward Cooper and Dorothy Vernita King. Vallie attended school in Fulton, graduating high school from Lincoln Lab in Jefferson City, Mo. She continued her post high school education at Lincoln University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. While at Lincoln University she was a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.

Vallie married James Henry Van Buren and from this union were born two children: Ronald E. Van Buren and Arletta R. Van Buren. She was later married to Timmons Boyd, who preceded her in death.

Vallie lived and taught school in Caruthersville, Mo. Prior to moving to Augusta and made that her primary residence and “home port”. She taught in several schools there and was involved with several organizations: National Association of University Women and the Richmond County Retired Educators Association.

She was a member of Bethel AME Church, active in the Women’s Missionary Society, Choraliers Club, and sang with the choir. Vallie was also a member of the Red Hat Society. In addition to her community work, Vallie’s love of travel enticed her to join several travel clubs. She racked up many miles across the United States and also did her share of international travel.

Vallie was preceded in death by both her parents, her husband Timmons Boyd, her two sisters, Wanda Faye Cooper Williams and Shirley Ann Lawson Cason and her nephew Walter C. Williams, Jr.

She leaves to Cherish her memory her children, Ronald and Arletta and her nieces and nephews, Le Wanda Jackson, Charles Young, Teralyn Williams, Shernette Mosley and David Young, along with nine great nieces and nephews and a host of great-great nieces and nephews.

She will truly be missed.

A graveside service for Vallie will be held Friday, July 19, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Southside Cemetery, Fulton, MO.

Don’t Cry For Me Today

Don’t cry for me today,

I wouldn’t want it this way.

Be strong and smile,

for you will see me in a while.

I know you miss me,

but now in Heaven I will be.

Do not keep your sad face.

I am in a much better place.

Do not let your tears fall,

for I cannot wipe them all.

Yes, my life wasn’t long,

But I’m begging you to be strong.

Live every moment as if it were your last.

I won’t forget any memories that have passed.

Cherish life and love

as I watch you from above.

As I remember all of the good things,

I come to see I have gotten my wings.

It is time to go and fly.

As your guardian angel I will try.

Don’t cry for me today.

I’m on my way.

Soaring through the sky,

I watch all of you telling me goodbye.