Valerie Jean Harper

Valerie J. Harper, age 59 of Cortland, passed away at her home on July 4, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. Valerie was born in Phoenix, AZ on September 29, 1960 to Warren & Lorraine (Bradway) Laney, Sr. She was a graduate of Lakeview High School and longtime resident of Cortland.

A registered nurse, Valerie spent her career working as the Director of Nursing for several area nursing homes, before going to work at Mercy Health where she has worked until her health forced her to retire.

On May 30, 1997, Valerie was united in marriage to Charlie Harper, who survives.

Valerie was always up for an adventure, whether it was coaching Lakeview Little Bulldogs youth cheerleading, riding 4-wheelers or volunteering with the Optimist Club. She loved hiking and camping. Valerie also enjoyed tending to her gardens and canning her large harvests of tomatoes and blueberries.

Most importantly, Valerie was a devoted wife, loving mother and amazing grandma. Her family was her passion, and she leaves behind a legacy of wonderful memories.

Besides her husband of 23 years, Valerie is survived by her children: Amanda (Shaun) Holden, Kelly Harper, Mark (Heidi) Harper, David (Virginia) Harper and Steven (Missy) Harper: her grandchildren: Haiden Shardy, Aurora and Khaleesia Holden as well as 14 additional grandchildren; a great-grandson; her brother Warren Laney, Jr.; her sisters Kathleen Potter and Darleen Thomas as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father and her nephew Warren Laney III.

A Celebration of Life for Valerie will be held on Sunday July 19 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at CandleLite Knolls: 2619 Bazetta Rd NE, Warren, OH 44481