Valerie Lynn Philpot

My mom was one of the strongest people I’ve ever known. She was loud, unapologetic and laughed/cackled with her whole soul. Also, when she set her mind to something, she did it. But her strength didn’t just show in what she accomplished; it showed in how much she gave. She would do anything for anybody, often putting others before herself, always with love and without hesitation.

Mom had so many talents and passions. She was an amazing cook — not just because she was a chef, but because she put her heart into every meal. Whether it was a big holiday family dinner or a simple dish she whipped up at home, you could taste the love in every bite. She had a gift for making things beautiful — from the way she decorated a room to the way she painted or arranged the lobby and the family home for the holidays. Everything she touched carried her warmth and creativity.

Some of my favorite memories are of her down at our beach house in Birch Bay. The beach was her happy place — peaceful, free, and full of life, just like she was. I can still picture her standing by the water, taking it all in with that calm, content smile she had.

My mom taught me so many things, but the greatest lessons she gave me were to be strong, to be independent, and to always look for the good in people though asking for help was so hard for her. I see her strength and her love in everything I do, and I know she’ll always be with me — in my heart, in my courage, and in the way I see the world.

Valerie wasn’t just my mom — she was my guide, my biggest supporter, and my inspiration and just my sounding board when I had an exceptionally rough day. Her love and her spirit live on in everyone she touched. And while we’ll miss her more than words can say, I know she’d want us to remember her with smiles, with laughter, a glass of white wine with ice cubes in hand and with love — just the way she lived her life.