Philpotts, Valerie Ann

Valerie Ann Philpotts passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, surrounded by family at Hospice Waterloo, following a long and courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. She was 87 years old.

Valerie was a devoted wife, mom, grandma, and great-grandma whose life was marked by love, faith, and quiet generosity towards her family and many friends. She was the loving mom of Valmarie (William) Hart and April Philpotts (David Wang), and a cherished grandma to Melyndi, Michael, Kathryn, Michaela (Gabriel Lindor), Daniel, Jacinta, Joseph, and Matthew Hart. She was grateful to have the opportunity to meet her precious great-grandchildren, Augustina and Gabriel Lindor, before she passed.

Valerie was predeceased by her beloved husband, George, with whom she shared 45 years of marriage; her parents, Gordon and Elsie Rinneard; and her brothers Alan, Larry, Michael, and Gordon. She is lovingly remembered by her brother Ron Rinneard and sister Lisa (Andy) Jostiak.

Valerie took great care in creating a beautiful and welcoming home, thoughtfully decorating it with warmth and intention. Her youthful, playful spirit, lively humour, and ever-present smile lifted those around her and brought out the best in everyone she met.

Valerie faced illness with remarkable resilience, refusing to be defined by hardship and always finding the strength to rise again. Her Catholic faith was central to her life and sustained her through suffering, guiding her to persevere with hope and joy. Her children and grandchildren remember a home filled with her cheerful singing, her fun and quirky sayings, and the steady presence of her love.

Valerie will be remembered for her steadfast faith, gentle strength, and the love she poured into her family and friends. Her legacy of warmth, courage, and devotion will continue to live on in all who knew her.

Valerie’s family will receive relatives and friends for a Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 173 Lourdes Street, Waterloo, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., with a reception to follow in the church hall. All are welcome.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many professionals who provided compassionate and dedicated care over the years, including but not limited to Drs. Fikry, Cox, and Yew; ProResp; Central Pharmsave; Ontario Health @ Home; and Hospice Waterloo Region.