It is with a heavy yet peaceful heart that we announce the passing of Valerie Leah Cecilia O’Shea, at the London Victoria Hospital, London, ON, Monday July 28, 2025, at the age of 58. Born in Miramichi, NB, she was the daughter of the late Gerald and Ann (Kingston) O’Shea.

She is survived by her son: Jordon Matchett of Vancouver Island, BC; daughter: Lindsay Small (Erik) of Fredericton, NB; grandsons: Westin, Desmond; brothers: Vincent (Marg), Francis, Lawrence (Sandra), Greg (Caroline), Cletus (June), Pat (Kelli); sisters: Ann Marie Hubbard (Billy), Mary Genevieve Jardine (Randy), Colleen Mullin (Frankie), Linda O'Shea (Marc), Christa (Michael).

Besides her parents she is predeceased by her brother: Donnie (Londie); infant sister: Geraldine; infant daughter: Nicole.

Valerie loved music, bingo and hosting meals for friends, she was a woman of faith.

Valerie’s life was marked by many challenges, but also by strength, persistence, and moments of light. She faced more than her share of hardship over the years, and though the path was not always easy, she continued forward the best way she knew how.

She was a mother, a daughter, a sister, and a woman with a complex and deeply human story. Those who knew her will remember her for her fire, and heart. 

She deserves to be remembered. Not for her struggles, but for surviving as long as she did in a world that rarely gave her rest.

Valerie, I hope wherever you are now, you’ve finally found peace. I hope your mind is quiet. I hope your body is whole. And I hope you know that even when I had to carry you from a distance, I still carried you in my heart.

You’re free now.

At request of the family, there will be no visitation. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 11 o’clock with Fr. Peter Igwe officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. 

In memory of Valerie, donations can be made out to the Heart in Stroke Foundation or a memorial of one’s choice. Messages of condolence can be sent through the funeral home website: www.miramichifunerals.ca