Valerie Ann Marion Ridley

Valerie Ann Marion Ridley, age 58 of Warren, died Sunday, July 25, 2010 at home. She was born on August 14, 1951 in Huntington, West Virginia, the daughter of the late William K. and the late Marion E. (nee: Siegel) Porter. At the age of 21, after attaining her Bachelor's degree, Valerie set out to begin a new life and exercize the credentials she worked so hard to obtain. She decided to relocate and chose the "Big Easy" for her new residence. For 20 years, she called New Orleans home and worked as an Elementary School Librarian. It is also where she met Andrew, the British musician who stole her heart, then promised his to her on the altar when the two became husband & wife. Following her father's death in 1992, Valerie returned to her childhood home in Warren to live with and care for her dear mother. Now back in Michigan, she decided to seek different employment and went to work with Tringali's Bakery in Warren where she extended over 14 years of dedicated service. She truly enjoyed the company, and the many friendships she built over the years with her fellow co-workers and the many special customers she interacted with on a regular basis. Valerie was also a woman with strong christian values and devout in her faith. Along with being a member of St. Edmund Catholic Church in Warren and a 3rd Order Franciscan, she was a devoted and learned scholar of the Catholic faith. With her background in schooling and years of knowledge, she was a lifelong teacher of Catholicism to many of the youth and community who were hungry to learn about the church. Her ministry was of a unique and special nature, and her willingness to serve helped to mold and nurture a multitude of lives. Valerie's legacy will be one of eternal remembrance and lasting memories. Valerie was the loving sister of Beth (Paul) Porter and David (Arestea) Porter. She was the devoted aunt of Alexander, Dimitrios, and Penelope. Also surviving is Valerie's close, loving and "furry" companion, Megan, her devoted therapy dog and pet. She was preceded in death by son, Joseph; brother, Jeffrey; sister, Patricia; and husband, Andrew. Visitation for Valerie will be held on Wednesday, July 28 from 3-9pm, with a 7pm Rosary Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 1/2 Mile Rd) in Warren. She will lie in state on Thursday from 10:00am until the time of Mass at 10:30am at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Warren. Officiating the Mass will be Rev. Fr. Robert Witkowski. Interment will follow at St. Clement Cemetery in Center Line, Michigan. Please share memories of Valerie at her guest book.