Valerie Ann Harmon was born in Sheffield, England, to Elsie May Shutt and Arthur Hudson. An accomplished student, she earned an academic scholarship to attend Sheffield Girls’ School. After graduation, Valerie moved to Paris, where she worked for the French Embassy and met Francis “Frank” Harmon, a U.S. Army Military Police soldier stationed there. They married in Paris on May 9, 1964, and welcomed their first child, Stewart James, while living there. In 1967, they moved to the United States, where their daughter, Nicole Teresa, was born in 1968. Valerie proudly became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1970.

Valerie built a successful career in finance, including serving as Financial Controller for Bachman Industries, one of her proudest professional accomplishments. She also served as president of NAWIC, the National Association of Women in Construction. In that role, she was passionate about supporting women, helping them reach their goals, and encouraging them to succeed in their careers.

Valerie believed in the importance of lifelong learning and continued her education throughout her life by taking college classes and expanding her knowledge and skills. Her curiosity, determination, and love of learning were qualities she carried with her always.

Outside of work, Valerie found joy in gardening, crafting, knitting thoughtful gifts for loved ones, and baking. She expressed her love through the things she created and through the kindness and generosity she shared with others.

Valerie was predeceased by her beloved husband of 49 years, Frank, and her daughter, Nicole. She is survived by her brother, Stephen Hudson, and his wife, Harriet; her son, Stewart Harmon, and his wife, Shana; her grandchildren, Justin Harmon and his wife, Jami; Kyle Whitten and his wife, Desiree; Sam Harmon Crow and her wife, Abigail; along with many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and brothers-in-law.

Valerie will be remembered for her intelligence, strength, creativity, lifelong commitment to learning, and generous spirit. Her journey from England to France and ultimately to America reflected a life of courage, determination, and accomplishment. Her family, professional achievements, commitment to empowering women, dedication to education, and the many lives she touched are lasting parts of her legacy. The love she shared will continue to be cherished by all who knew her.

A celebration of life will take place at Murphy’s Taproom Carriage House, located at 393 State Route 101 in Bedford, New Hampshire, on Saturday, November 21, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All are welcome to join in celebrating Valerie’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Valerie’s memory to Tree of Hope Haiti’s Trade School Building Project at treeofhopehaiti.org/give. In honor of Valerie’s lifelong love of learning and her belief in the importance of education, we have chosen to support this project, which will help provide educational opportunities and vocational training to students in Haiti.

Services have been entrusted to Holt-Woodbury Funeral Home. www.holtwoodburyfh.com.