Valerie Ann Smith-Godwin

Valerie Ann Smith-Godwin, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on April 25, 1951, in Flint, Michigan, Valerie was the cherished daughter of Bessie May Strozier and Charlie Lee Strozier. She was a beacon of love, strength, and joy to all who knew her. Valerie's journey through life was filled with vibrant experiences and profound connections. She began her education at Sacred Heart Catholic School and continued at Flint Northwestern High School. Her quest for knowledge and passion for learning led her to Eastern Michigan University, where she graduated with a bachelor's degree. This foundation of education and curiosity was something she held dear throughout her life. In her early years, Valerie lived in Ypsilanti before moving to Chicago, Illinois. It was in Chicago that her life took a beautiful turn when she married her loving husband, James H. Godwin. Together, they shared 33 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Their partnership was a testament to a love that grew stronger with each passing day. Valerie had a zest for life that was truly infectious. She dabbled in theater, gracing the stage with her presence and bringing characters to life with her natural talent. Offstage, she enjoyed dancing, playing games like Uno and Phase 10, and staying active with aerobics, Zumba classes, and hula-hooping. Her backyard was a sanctuary where she found solace in gardening, grilling, and listening to music under the open sky. Her professional life was marked by her dedication to serving others. Valerie worked for many years with the state of Illinois at Dickens Children's Shelter and later in the licensing department for daycare centers. Her career was a reflection of her nurturing spirit and commitment to the well-being of children. Valerie was a proud and active member of P.L.I.M (Power Latent In Man) since 1979, under the leadership of Dean Warren Lee. She was one of the original members and remained actively involved until her passing, contributing her time and energy to the community she held dear. Beyond her accomplishments and passions, Valerie's warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her smile, illuminated by her deep, beautiful dimples, could light up any room, bringing joy and comfort to those around her. Valerie is lovingly remembered by her surviving family: her devoted husband, James H. Godwin; her daughters, Valerie Nicole Smith "Niki" (Michael) and Nickole E. Reed; her brother, Gary Wood, and sister, Karen Strozier. She was the adored grandmother of Javonte LaVelle Smith, James D. Godwin, Kendall Isaiah Smith, Diamond B. Reed, and Miakia Nicole Murray. Her legacy of love continues through her great-grandchildren: Kayden Lee Smith, Adrian J. Godwin, Nalej A. McCauley, Dionne Tobias Lamont Jones, Kyra Noelle-Lee Smith, and Mckenzie Godwin. She also leaves behind her cherished "fur" granddaughter, Roxy L. Reed, and a host of other relatives and friends who will forever hold her memory close. Predeceased by her parents, Charlie and Bessie Strozier; her grandson, Christopher Anderson Cole; her grandmother, Beulah Hunt; her mother-in-law, Rutera Godwin; and her son-in-law, Dabon Reed, Valerie now joins them in eternal rest, surrounded by love. Valerie Ann Smith-Godwin's life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and a profound sense of purpose. She touched the lives of many with her compassion, wisdom, and unwavering spirit. As her family, friends, and community gather to celebrate her life, they remember her as a guiding light and a source of inspiration, whose presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished.