Valle Lee Stein

A visitation will be held Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home in Marlin, Texas. Funeral services, officiated by the Reverend George Lumpkin, will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at First Methodist Church in Marlin, Texas.

Valle was born on April 30, 1932, in Marlin, Texas, to William Lafayette Crites and Eva Mae Henley Crites. The middle of seven children, she grew up during the Depression in a home filled with love and warmth before graduating from Marlin High School in 1950.

In 1953, Valle married her devoted husband, Gus Albert Stein, Jr., who preceded her in death in 1970. Together, they built a loving home, shared 17 wonderful years of marriage, and created a life filled with faith, joy, and countless cherished moments. Valle was a proud and devoted mother to Deborah, Al, and Donnie, instilling in them her values of strength, hard work, and family devotion. She loved her family above all else, and each of them knew they were so loved and she was so proud. Known affectionately as “Granny” to the true joys of her life, her grandchildren remember her as a witty, selfless granny who would be happy to sit and chat while sneaking chocolates.

A lifelong follower of Christ, Valle was a dedicated member of First Methodist Church in Marlin. She served faithfully as Worthy Matron of The Order of the Eastern Star, sang in the church choir, taught Sunday school, and was active in the Methodist Women’s Association. Her faith remained a cornerstone throughout her life.

Valle’s professional career began as a switchboard operator, and through hard work and determination, she rose to become the Chief of Medical Administration Services at the VA Hospital. Outside of work, she enjoyed camping and lake days, cooking for her family, and hosting gatherings. No matter the season of life, she was always the life of the party.

Valle’s fierce love, spunky personality, and unmatched wit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Valle was preceded in death by her husband, Gus Albert Stein Jr.; son, Gus Albert Stein III; parents, William and Eva Mae Crites; and siblings, William Lafayette Jr., Robert Lincoln Sr., Velma Beth, John Thomas, and James Edward.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Deborah Neuman and husband Gary; son, Donnie Stein and wife Missy; five grandchildren, Krystal and husband Jason, Jacob and wife Catherine, DJ, Roxy and husband Aaron, and Carleigh; four great-grandchildren; and her brother, Michael Houston Crites.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing Valle’s love, laughter, and light will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was truly one of a kind, and the world is a better place because she was in it.

Pallbearers honoring Valle’s life will be her grandchildren. Honorary Pallbearers include Jack Williams, Jack Patterson, Jeff Watkins, Milton Albright, Jimmy Mitchell and Jim Jones.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to First Methodist Church in Marlin.