Valencia Berry Krause

Valencia dedicated much of her professional life to public service and administration. She worked within the tax department and later alongside Senator Berry, where she assisted in organizing political gatherings, community events, and campaign efforts throughout St. Thomas. She was known for her intelligence, strong presence, and ability to bring people together.

Her greatest joy, however, was found in her family. Valencia was deeply devoted to those she loved and remained closely connected to her St. Thomas roots throughout her life. She shared a beautiful love story with her husband, Art, whom she met in St. Thomas through family gatherings and community events. Their relationship grew into a lasting partnership of approximately 25 years filled with companionship, laughter, and unwavering love. Art often shared that Valencia taught him what it truly meant to be loved.

Valencia later relocated to Florida, while continuing to remain connected to family both in the Virgin Islands and the mainland United States. She was admired for her strength, pride, humor, resilience, and the deep care she showed to those around her.

She is survived by her husband, Art; her son, Steven Laplace (Betsy LaPlace) ; her sisters, Judith Berry-Magras, Priscilla Berry-Quetel and Helen Baker; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and close friends whose lives were touched by her love and guidance.

She was preceded in death by her son, Wayne, her parents, Lionel Pierre Berry and Marie Chrystalia Berry; her brothers, George, Roland, Roy, Roger, and Lee Berry and her sister, Rose Marie Berry.

A small family viewing will be held prior to cremation. A memorial gathering in St. Thomas is expected to take place at a later date, where Valencia will be laid to rest alongside her son Wayne and granddaughter.

Valencia’s legacy is one of love, devotion to family, resilience, and grace. She will be remembered always and missed deeply by all who knew and loved her.