Valorie Smith

“We are given memories, so we may have roses in December.” James Barrie

Valorie Smith was born a welcomed daughter to Lauren and Janice Strassburg, on Nov. 20, 1959 in Boulder, CO. From that moment on, she brought joy and comfort to everyone and everything she encountered. Valorie grew up on a gentleman’s farm in Colorado, where she learned how to love animals, the earth, and family.

She spent her formative years on the back of a horse; it was from that height, she learned the joy of partnerships and how to love…be it piglets, farm dogs or family. It was on those back dirt roads, she developed a strong will, a strong arm and the tenaciousness that would stay with her until the end. She was an active member of 4-H clubs and spent many happy years at county fairs and being a Rodeo Queen.

After college, she moved to Alaska with the love of her life and husband of 38 years, Kevin Smith. Together they raised two beautiful children, Tyler and Kelsey in Enid, OK where they spent many, many happy years enjoying pleasures both small and vast.

Valorie was an award-winning Master hand quilter, who named each quilt, lovingly, and shared them with family, friends, Habitat for Humanity homeowners, and patients undergoing cancer treatments. We will all be wrapped in the warmth of her quilted love forever, as we pass her quilts on from generation to generation.

Those of us left behind, know she and her father, Lauren, are reunited and watching over us. She is survived by her devoted husband, Kevin, her beautiful children, Kelsey (Joshua) and Tyler (Saxon), her mother, Janice, her sisters Gina and Colette and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

The family’s gratitude goes out to Hospice Circle of Love, and Grace Care in Enid, and to all those contributing to cancer research, which is so desperately needed. A private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Condolences at Ladusauevans.com.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice this Christmas.