Valerie Strickland

In Loving Memory of

Valerie Jean Strickland

Valerie Jean (Grant) Strickland, one of three children born to Willa Mae Turner and Smith Grant was born on Friday, December 11, 1936.

Valerie attended Dunbar High School in Chicago Illinois and later went to work for the Naval Ordnance Station in Forest Park, Illinois until she relocated to Washington State.

Valerie relocated to Tracyton, Washington in October 1970 with her soon to be husband and her 3 children. After their move, she began working at the Undersea Warfare Center in Keyport, Washington where she worked as a civilian employee until her retirement. Valerie was also a valued Ombudsman volunteer for the Kitsap County Department of Aging and devoted many years ensuring accountability and advocating for the aging.

Valerie departed this life on Sunday February 1, 2026. She is preceded in death by her parents, one brother and two stepsons. Valerie leaves to cherish her memories her husband of 55 years (Ralph Strickland), a brother (Leroy Grant), three children (Linda Peters, Brian Andrews and Lisa Andrews), two stepdaughters (Darcel Strickland and Rolmene Ward), 16 Grandchildren, 21 Great-Grandchildren, 1 Great-Great Grandchild, a host of relatives and friend.

“Her Smile”

Though her smile is gone forever and her hand we cannot touch,

We still have so many memories of the one we loved so much.

Her memory is now our keepsake, which with we’ll never part.

God has her in His keeping; we have her in our heart.

Sadly missed, but never forgotten.

The family of Valerie Strickland extend our sincerest and heartfelt gratitude to each of you. We truly appreciate the outpouring of love and concern expressed through your comforting calls and messages, visits and prayers. Thank you for the care shown from the depths of our hearts. May God forever bless and keep each of you in His tender loving care.