Valarie "Val" Payne-Willden's Obituary
Valarie "Val" Ann Willden (Payne) was born in Denver, Colorado on October 18, 1952. She was just a couple months shy of her 69th birthday when she suddenly passed away on August 10, 2021.
Valarie grew up in Bountiful, Utah, but spent most of her adult life raising her family around the Puget Sound region. She resided in Tacoma, Wa at the time of her death. The Pacific Northwest held a special place in her heart; you could often find her “walking” at the park, camping with her children, or playing with grandkids on the beach. She just loved being in the trees or near the water with the sun on her face.
Val raised 6 kids, and was loving the role as a doting "Grandma Val." Whenever possible, she visited her parents, siblings, and relatives in Utah and Colorado. She loved talking about her life. Val loved her long phone calls catching up with family and friends. Valarie would always send special text messages on holidays if she couldn't talk to you, and if you were lucky enough, she would even sing happy birthday to you on your special day.
Towards the end of her life, Valarie endured a lot of struggles with her health and physical well being. Even though sometimes it meant using a cane or a walker, it didn't slow her down. She hated being stuck at home, and before COVID was always out and about. Among Val's favorite activities was being a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and going to the church dances for single adults, and spending time with her friends.
A real collector, Valarie enjoyed the rush of a bargain. She took pride in finding jewelry and clothing that made her feel beautiful. Val had an eye for those special things that others might overlook; she found beauty in all things. Valarie was a thoughtful giver, and if she saw something that she thought someone else would enjoy, she would surprise them with it. These things made her very happy. Valarie was also a collector of stories. She loved talking about planning trips, and all the incredible things that happened in her lifetime. One day, she had planned to turn these stories into a children's book.
Valarie was preceded in death by her son Tyler Payne; her parents Dorothy and Lewis LaVal Willden; her siblings Linda Goff, David Willden, Scott Willden, Edward Willden, LaVaughna Welch, and Val's partner Henry Thiel. She is survived by sisters: Kay Freeman (Karl) and Bonnie Lewis (Bill). Brothers: Buzzy Willden, Jarrid Willden (Julie), and Shawn Willden (Brett). Children: Kim Peterson (Matt), Tracy Del Toro, Jason Payne (Aymee), Matthew Payne (Cheri), Ashley Hatley (Will). Grandchildren and Step-Grandchildren: Tyler, Anisa, Kaleigh, Jasmine, Isabella, Bayleigh, Taylor, Ava, Kobe, Jason, Amelya, Sean, Corey, D’Angelo, Damon, and Kaylee.
Valarie will be laid to rest with her son Tyler during a graveside service on Friday, September 3rd at Mountainview Cemetery in Tacoma, Wa. Reception to follow.
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