Valerie Arlene (Smith) Rodeheaver

Valerie Arlene (Smith) Rodeheaver, age 72, went home to be with the Lord on June 16, 2026, at Christiana Hospital in Newark, DE, following health complications. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Valerie lived a life marked by quiet strength and devotion to her family, particularly her husband, David Rodeheaver, and sons, Daniel and Patrick. She carried herself with kindness and humility, and those who knew her were blessed by her gentle spirit and the warmth she shared so freely. She managed Type 1 diabetes (T1D) throughout her life with strength and courage, and enjoyed helping others and volunteering in her local community. 

She was born on October 25, 1953, in Norristown, PA, to the late William H. Smith and Jean C. Smith, the first of six children that included Carol Wiegand, Nancy Bryant, William R. Smith, Steven Smith, and Christopher Smith. 

Valerie was a natural teacher and moved to Newark, DE to pursue her graduate degree at the University of Delaware after earning her undergraduate degree from Rosemont College. It was there that she met David and began a family, sharing 48 years of marriage with him. She enjoyed a long career as a teacher, instructing students in Spanish at St. Mark’s High School, Caravel Academy, and The Independence School. 

Faith was central to Valerie’s life. She was a devout Catholic and a parishioner at Holy Family Church for many years. She also found joy in the simple and meaningful things of life. Valerie enjoyed playing the piano and had a wide collection of music. She loved vacationing with family in Wildwood, NJ, tending to her flower garden, and found pleasure in crafting and cooking. Valerie saw beauty in the world and added beauty to it in return. 

She is survived by her devoted husband, David, who lovingly cared for her throughout their marriage. Her two sons, Daniel and Patrick, were a source of deep pride and joy to her. Valerie welcomed her daughter-in-law, Kelly, into the family and cherished her grandchildren, Owen, Nora, and Elliot. Her family was the center of her heart, and she gave them unwavering support, encouragement, and affection throughout her life. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to comfort those who were closest to her.

Family and friends are invited to offer condolences on the evening of Tuesday, June 23rd from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Rd, Wilmington, DE, 19808. A subsequent viewing will be held on Wednesday, June 24th from 10:00 – 10:45 AM followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at St. Paul R.C. Church, 2007 New Hope St., Norristown, PA 19401. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in West Conshohocken, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Valerie’s memory may be made to Breakthrough T1D.

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