Hello,  Child Care Resource Network is honoring Dr Val Cooley's work at our Springtime in the City Awards Banquet.  Could someone from the family reach out to me at ksuminski@wnychildren.org so I can share the details.  
Dr. Val meant the world to us and the early childhood community.  She will be greatly missed.
Kim Suminski
CEO
Child Care Resource Network

Sending love and peace to all who loved Val, especially Sarah, Patrick, Morgen, and Anna.

I am so thankful for Val Cooley.  When our family was new to Buffalo in 1978, I was introduced to her.  She invited my three sons to join her and her three children at her home for a play date.  She offered me my first job, teaching Suzuki violin,  at The Park School, where she was in charge of the Music Program and taught piano.  At Westminster Presbyterian Church, she and I worked with youngsters including my two grandchildren in the Sunday School music program.  One Sunday the kids made pies:  singing was better than ever that day!  Val was gifted dealing with all people; her area of choice and expertise was children.  I was not able to gift her with enough flowers and notes to thank her for help with my grands.  Her blessing is ever-
lasting.   Love, Gretchen Meister Brand

To Val’s Family ~ I am deeply sorry for your loss. Val was an original, true to herself and all she believed in! Our paths crossed here in Buffalo around service to children, families, and educational nonprofits such as Every Person Influences Children,  Childcare Resource & Referral Network, Read to Succeed Buffalo, Buffalo Toronto Public Media, and others. Val was bright, passionate, brimming with good humor, and knew how to make things happen. My heart is hurting, as back in November, we were sitting side~by~side, each receiving a special award from our friends at EPIC. Val was shining brightly, beautifully feted, and in great spirits as she talked  w~all who gathered to salute her. “Dr Val” was incredibly special and I count myself fortunate to know her and be in her orbit all these years.  Much peace and caring to your family.

Dear Cooley family:

I met Val at Canterbury Woods Gates Circle over 3 years ago.  She was such a feisty and warm woman.  Apparently, she was my teacher at Westminster Preschool when I was three years old.  I loved talking to her and her laughter was contagious.  I am thinking of all of you during this difficult time.  She will always be in my heart.

Love, Molly

I did not know know Val very well, but she was delightful.  For years she came to the farm share where I worked, and it wasn't long before she was able to greet the workers by name.  She always came in with a big smile, even as she was moving more slowly, and we all looked forward to seeing her.  Sitting in the Westminster congregation on Christmas Eve, I'd get a squeeze on the shoulder as she came down the aisle with the choir.  It was obvious she spread joy and caring wherever she went, even in the small things.  May her memory be a blessing.

Val Cooley was a one of a kind lady. So many lives are better as a result of her life long work as an advocate for children. I was blessed to work for Val very early in my career and her passion for our work inspired me then. And continues to inspire me today.  Without question the most important thing to Val was her family.  The love and pride she felt for her children and grandchildren was immeasurable.  My prayers and love are with you all.

Val you were a wonderful person and a great boss with a beautiful personality. I loved your smiling humor. Sending my condolences to the family for all peace, comfort and strength. Val you now rest in the peace of God's grace. Much love! 🕊❤️🙏🏽

OBITUARIO

Valerie C. Cooley

27 marzo, 1943 – 15 enero, 2026

Dengler, Roberts, Perna Funeral Home

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