Valerie Ann Keller

Valerie A. Keller, 83, of Vienna, Virginia, passed away in her home with family at her side on Christmas Day, December 25, 2024. She was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. 

Valerie was born and raised in Rochester, NY, as the only child of George E. Stevens and Eleanor Stevens, née DeCarlis. Her father was a master baker and the proprietor of the Valerie Ann Bakery as well as an amateur photographer. As a young child, her mother emigrated from Italy to the United States with her family. Valerie regretted not being able to attend college after high school and later pursued and obtained an undergraduate degree in sociology from Nazareth University, which was an impactful model for her teenaged daughter at the time. 

Valerie was a strong and stoic woman whose fortitude carried her through life circumstances and decisions. She was the consummate hostess, enjoyed a good laugh and spending time with a tight circle of friends in Rochester, adored dogs, and was eternally devoted to her dearest and truest love, her husband Jack. 

Valerie is survived by her daughters, Janine M. Lawton, née Cooper, and Chandra Keller; her son Paul E. Cooper; her grandchildren Audrey B. Lawton, Marshall G. S. Lawton, W. Jackson Allen, and Xavier B. Allen; and her sons-in-law Kirke B. Lawton and Warren T. Allen II. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack L. Keller, and after her difficult battle with pancreatic cancer she wanted nothing more than to join him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree or donating to the Humane Society of Fairfax County in Valerie's honor.