A life devoted to helping others

WARM tributes have been paid to a local woman who devoted much of her life to tireless public service.

Valerie Adams passed away peacefully on December 23 at hospital surrounded by her loving family.

The Steeple woman was wife of Tony, mum of Rory and wife Joanne, Naiobh and husband Philip, granny of Tomas, Finlay, Annie, Freddie and Louis and aunt of Neil, Michael, Luke and Hannah.

A service of celebration for Valerie’s life is due to be held at Antrim and Newtownabbey Crematorium today (Tuesday) at 11am.

The family has asked that donations in lieu of flowers, if desired, be made to Antrim Food Bank care of Wrays Funeral Directors, 41 Church Street, or online at wraysfuneraldirectors.co.uk

That simple thought for others was something Valerie strived to do during her remarkable life.

She helped young people reach their potential as a teacher for many years - and then shifted her focus to supporting adults and their families when she took over the reins of Antrim’s busy Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

The local woman also served as a very engaged independent member of the Police and Community Safety Partnership.

In recent years she became Chairperson of the Antrim and Newtownabbey Loneliness Network, and was instrumental in the creation of ‘chatty benches’ and connected cafes across the Borough - all designed to draw people together.

Former Mayor Drew Ritchie said her passing was ‘sad news’.

“I enjoyed working with her on Antrim CAB,” he said.

“Deepest sympathy to her husband and loving family. She will be sadly missed. God bless.”

Former councillor Noreen McClelland said Valerie was ‘a good friend and colleague’.

“My pleasure to have worked with her. Such a wealth of knowledge and wisdom. My thoughts are with Tony and the family at this very sad and difficult time,” she said.

Other locals have shared their memories too.

“Valerie was a great champion for the community. She gave me so much help and support over the years and I’ll be eternally grateful for that,” said one local woman.