Valerie Anne Tee White

Valerie Anne Tee White, age 87, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away peacefully at her home on August 9, 2024. Born on May 9, 1937, in her grandmother's home in Portsmouth, England, Valerie was the beloved only child of Flt. Lt. Arthur William Tee (RAF) and Daisie Yvonne Gwendoline May Tee. Her early years were deeply influenced by the events of World War II, as she spent her childhood between Portsmouth and London, experiencing the resilience and challenges of the time.

During her formative years, Valerie attended Ewelme Primary School while her father was stationed at RAF Benson. The bonds she formed with her classmates during those years were strong, and she cherished these relationships throughout her life. She was passionate about sports, particularly tennis and field hockey, and her love for these activities extended into her teenage years. After completing her education, Valerie attended secretarial school, which led her to a position as a secretary for the base commander at RAF Sculthorpe. It was there that she met the love of her life, Herbert V. White, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years of marriage.

Valerie and Herb were married on December 13, 1958. After spending some time in England, Herb’s military service brought them back to the United States, where they made homes in Louisiana, California, Virginia, and ultimately, San Antonio, Texas, where they retired. Valerie dedicated herself to raising their family as a stay-at-home mother, later finding fulfillment in her work as a teacher’s aide and library assistant within the North East Independent School District. Her kind spirit and dedication to the elementary school community led to lifelong friendships that she treasured until her final days.

In their retirement years, Valerie and Herb enjoyed traveling, with trips to Europe and Canada among their favorite adventures. Throughout her life, Valerie was known for her knitting—a skill she began at the tender age of 4. Her knitting needles were a constant companion, and she lovingly crafted countless baby blankets for friends, family, and local charities. Even now, an unfinished pink blanket remains in her knitting bag, a testament to her lifelong passion.

Valerie was preceded in death by her husband, Lt. Col. Herbert V. White. She is survived by her children, Andrew White (Susanne) of Brueggen, Germany, and Claire White Thomas (Michael) of Van Alstyne, Texas. Valerie’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Kristen Travo of San Antonio, Texas; Courtney Ballou of Virginia Beach, Virginia; Charlotte Thomas of Austin, Texas; and Colin Thomas of Golden, Colorado. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Noah Ballou, Grace Ballou, and Annabelle Travo.

Valerie will be remembered for her warmth, her love of family, and her unwavering commitment to the people and passions that filled her life. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life to honor Valerie's life will be held on September 21, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Shearer Hills Baptist Church in San Antonio, Texas. A reception will follow the service, where friends and family can gather to celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Valerie's name to the ASPCA or local charity of choice.