Valerie Irene Cassell (Shergold), age 81, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering positivity.

Valerie was born on January 20, 1945, in Reading, England, to Cecil and Hilda Shergold. She carried her English roots with pride and brought warmth, kindness, and joy wherever she went.

Valerie will be remembered as a loving, giving, and spirited woman who embraced each day with enthusiasm. She was always on the go, full of energy, and rarely content to sit still for long. Known for her bright outlook on life, Valerie had a remarkable ability to find the good in every situation. She was quick with a laugh, cherished time with others, and had a competitive streak that made games, and family gatherings especially memorable. Her positive attitude and zest for life were contagious, and she touched countless lives through her kindness and friendship. Valerie loved all types of music and loved it LOUD !!

Above all, Valerie's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and adoring great-grandmother. She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and took immense pride in watching her family grow. Her love, encouragement, and steady presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Valerie was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Hilda Shergold; her sister, Rita Hines; her brother-in-law, Patrick Hodges; and her brother-in-law, Frank Cassell.

She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Howard Cassell, Jr.; her children, Michael Cassell, Brian (Larissa) Cassell, and Lorraine Cassell; her grandchildren, Valerie (Tavon) Wingfield and Joshua (fiancée, Cristina Ortiz) Cassell; her great-grandchildren, Tavon Jr., Tru, and Román; her sister, Joyce Hodges; her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Tom Hines, Theodore (LaUanah) Cassell, and Jody Cassell; Godson, DeAntoiné Gilmore; and her very dear friend, Mary Smith; and special friends, Leronica Previl and Karen Glaspie.

A funeral service for Valerie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, with Rev. George Davis officiating. Valerie's family will greet friends and relatives one hour prior to the service, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Valerie's laughter, smile, generosity, optimism, and deep love for her family will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her bright spirit will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.