VALERIE CLAIRE CAMERON

Condolences & Memories (3 entries)

• Words of Remembrance for the Life of Valerie Claire Cameron My name is Betty Maddocks and I have been a close friend to Val for over 35 years. Val and I met when both our daughters were in Junior High and were attending the same school. Our friendship did not take long to grow and, in fact, deepened after each passing year of togetherness. Without a doubt, I was in shock when Val, during a phone call days before her death, revealed to me that she was ill. I was deeply saddened at the news of her death and words alone cannot begin to describe how heavy my heart feels as I write these sentiments. You see, Val and I had a different kind of friendship; one that was akin to sisterhood. Throughout the years, we made memories that included family and friends. We laughed and cried together, engaged in numerous activities including walks and bike rides; and easily spent hours upon hours on telephone calls at any time of the day we felt the need to converse. Most importantly, however, is that we mutually supported each other through the various ups and downs of life. Even when difficult times tested our friendship, Val was always respectful and never made me feel like less of a person. I was valuable in her eyes and remember this keenly when one day we were both bike riding in the park and Val said something unforgettable to me, following a bitter encounter I had with another cyclist. This cyclist, irritated at my riding skills, which he thought were less than favorable, commented negatively on my medical condition which causes my body to shake uncontrollably. Following this stranger’s departure, Val turned to me and said gently “Betty, I have never seen you shake”. Little did Val know that she had just expressed the deepest, kindest words of love that meant the world to me. Though my condition is obvious to anyone who interacts with me – what meant the world to me was that Val looked beyond my outward flaw and focused solely on who I was as a friend and a person. As the days draw closer to my birthday in just a few days, I will miss Val’s phone call at 6 a.m. in the morning, where she would sing me a Happy Birthday song. Val, my dearest of friend, while I can no longer hear your voice, know that you will remain in a special place in my heart forever. Recently, I read an article that said that the Irish believe that a little rain at the funeral of a loved one is a good thing as it means tears are flowing from heaven – thereafter when the rainbow appears it signifies peace. So, in the coming weeks, as the Spring rains fall and a rainbow or two appears – I will be thinking of you. With love, your best friend – Betty. - Posted by: Betty Maddocks (Friend) on: Mar 29, 2022

• Val, was a good friend and we worked together at Marks and Spencers for many years. We would all get together twice a year and reminisce about the good old days working at M and S. We both had a love of Coronation St. My mom always referred to Val as the onion lady as we always bought Vidalia onions from her. We had not been able to get together because of covid but I was looking forward to a lunch with the gang soon. My thoughts and prayers are with Val's family. Sara - Posted by: Sara Sakowski (co worker and friend) on: Mar 05, 2022

• A dear friend and co-worker, always up and ready for a laugh. Haven’t seen her through the Covid, and was very saddened to hear of her passing. My deepest condolences to your family. Hugs to all. - Posted by: Diane Borsboom (Co-worker at Marks & Spencer) on: Feb 26, 2022