Valerie Walsh

She was born on April 18, 1952, in Brooklyn, New York to Steve and Bessie Vlahakis. She graduated from Freeport High School in 1970 and later moved to St. James City, Florida to continue her family’s passion for cuisine where she started her business, “Our Place. Greek-Italian Deli”. There she met life-long friends who became family. A move to Punta Gorda, Florida, couldn’t change the desire for serving others as she found herself flourishing in a career as a Publix Deli manager. For the next 25 years she not only provided exceptional customer service, but also mentored, guided, loved, supported, and always made sure to throw in some fun with her coworkers. Many of which became family to her too.

Valerie was an amazing, dedicated, generous, hardworking, tenacious, caring, and committed woman. She triumphed through any and every obstacle thrown her way. Valerie thoroughly enjoyed running her delis, cooking, vacationing, cruising, and above all, she loved her family and friends with all of her being. Her home was always open for a good meal, advice, a warm hug, and a lot of fun. Her presence exuded silliness and laughter, which only grew with the arrival of her grandchildren. Her love, generosity, and goofiness knew no bounds.

Valerie is survived by her mother, Bessie Vlahakis; her daughters, Lisa Roughton and Jennifer Erickson; her grandchildren, Kristen (Kyle) Vulgamore, Jordan Roughton, Alexa Roughton, Derrick Erickson, Logan Roughton, Olivia Roughton, and Carson Roughton; her great-granddaughter, Shea Vulgamore; and her brother James (Theresa) Vlahakis. She is preceded in death by her father, Steve Vlahakis.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, April 7, 2024, Holy Trinity banquet hall; 24411 Rampart Blvd Port Charlotte, FL 33980 (behind the Greek Orthodox Church) at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Bobby Holloway Jr. Memorial Fund. https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=6M2Z2GC7AD24A