Obituary of Valerie Mae Walling

Valerie Mae Walling, 71, passed away on March 24, 2024, in Lexington, KY.

Valerie was born to the late Walter Barton and Carilyn Barton on February 3, 1953, in El Paso, Texas. She experienced many cities and states while her father transitioned through Air Force bases, ultimately settling in Creston, Iowa. Valerie met Jeffrey Walling while managing a Happy Chef, and they married on April 27, 1981. More than anything, she wanted to be a mother, and they were blessed with three children: Joshua, Jessica, and Jeremiah.

She received a diploma in Computer Operations from Southwestern Community College in Creston, IA, in June 1999. She worked as a Table Games Dealer for Lakeside Casino and Resort from its opening in 1999 to her retirement.

Eager to be a Nana, Valerie moved to Lexington, KY, in 2019, before the birth of her first grandchild. She lived for her grandchildren, showering them with love and attention and always a popsicle or two. To Valerie, her grandchildren and dog, Tigger, could do no wrong; they brought her so much joy. She was fond of plants, particularly the carnivorous variety, animals, reading, and a select group of people. If you knew Valerie, you knew she was opinionated, stubborn, and had an extensive vocabulary.

Valerie is survived by her children Joshua Walling of Minneapolis, MN, Jessica (Jeremiah) Terry of Lexington, KY, Jeremiah (Mariam Alabdali) Walling of Albuquerque, NM; her cherished grandchildren Remi and Azriel Terry; her soulmate Jeffrey Walling; her siblings Jackie (Dennis) Dayman, Mark (Pam Jones) Barton, and Jim (Nina) Barton; many nieces and nephews; and her furry best friend, Tigger.

Her father, Walter Barton, and mother, Carilyn Barton, preceded her death.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date.