Jody Carol Valentine

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jody Carol Valentine, who was taken from us far too soon on November 1st, 2024. Jody was born in Houston, Texas on February 8th, 1958 to Randall and Peggy Culpepper. Jody spent her life working hard and creating memories with family and friends. She was a beloved mother, wife, sister, aunt, and friend to all who were lucky enough to know her. She grew up in Bellaire, Texas, and attended Horn Elementary and Pershing Middle School before moving to Anniston, Alabama. She graduated from Saks High School and completed coursework at Jacksonville State University before returning to Texas. In her early life, she cultivated a strong bond with a group of girls whom she met in Girl Scouts. That bond grew and remained strong even after 50 years. The close-knit group loved spending summers at Peach Creek Girl Scout Camp where they sometimes had to be separated because of their shenanigans. Jody also had a love for the Houston Astros and watched nearly every game for decades.

Jody was dedicated to her work at Gillman Auto, where she built a legacy over 30 years. Her commitment was evident in her incredible work ethic—she strived to be great in all that she did. She worked her way up from the payroll department to becoming the Director of Human Resources. During her time at Gillman, she created meaningful friendships with many people who had a major impact on her life. The same vigor Jody maintained in her career translated to how she approached her cancer treatment. She worked every day to overcome the obstacles that were imposed on her due to her sickness and never gave up. She was courageous, brave, unrelenting, and approached her situation with optimism and faith in God.

Jody will be remembered for her compassion, kindness, and the love she extended to everyone around her. She was a true follower of Matthew 7:12 - “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you”. Her kindness radiated and impacted everyone who knew her as she strived to keep those around her happy.

Her spirit, generosity, and love of life will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and coworkers. She leaves behind daughters Tonya Grubbs, Ashley Grubbs (Orlando), Sydney Valentine (Austin), step son Corwin Valentine, sister Amy Harrott, niece Wendi Fabre (Brandon), nephew Todd Burnett, great nephew Rudy Fabre, cousin Tracy McKernan (Joe) and their daughter Bailey, in-laws Ray Valentine (Barbara), Kevin Valentine, Cissy McCaleb (David), Sean Valentine (David) and their families. She was preceded in death by husband Paul Valentine, whom she is now reunited with for eternity. Those who knew her will carry on her legacy with love and gratitude. Services will be held at Forest Park Lawndale 6900 Lawndale St on November 8, 2024. Visitation begins at 10 am with Services at 11 am.