Judith L. "Judy" Valente, age 79 of Monroe, passed away Friday, March 28, 2025 in her home with her daughters at her side.

Born April 14, 1945 in Monroe, Judy was the daughter of the late Harold F. and Margarett (Townsend) Sodt. She graduated from Jefferson High School in 1963, earned a Bachelor's degree in Education from Michigan State University in 1967, and finished her Master's in Education in 1971, also at Michigan State. On June 22, 1968, she married Richard L. Valente at St. Paul's United Methodist Church.

An educator at heart, Judy was employed primarily as a first-grade teacher specializing in reading. She taught in Las Vegas, NV Chicago IL and primarily in Michigan. Much of her teaching career was for Jefferson Schools at Sodt Elementary, which was named in honor of her father who was a past Superintendent. Judy was a lifelong student and often taught the children in her classrooms to be the same. Judy's curiosity about life and its precious details was one of her most endearing qualities to others, as it was an infectious way to approach life and the world around her. Her daughters both inherited this quality and continue to cherish this about their mother. She retired from Jefferson Schools in 2007.

Judy was a multifaceted individual, possessing a wide range of talents, skills and interests. She found joy in the simple beauty of nature, often hiking through Sterling State Park, marveling at the unique ecosystem of Monroe. Her appreciation for the world around her led her to explore places like Zuni, New Mexico, where she immersed herself in Native American history and breathtaking scenic views.

Judy was truly a world traveler, having gone to Fiji, London, Copenhagen, Italy, Seattle, Niagara Falls, Toronto, Mexico, New York, California and many more places. One of Judy's most recent treasured memories was her trip to New Orleans with her dearly loved best friend and fellow teacher, Lyn Harmon. Together, they reveled in the rich culture and vibrant life of the city, creating unforgettable moments by going "off the tour guides path" to find unique places, along the way sharing lots of fun and laughter.

Bird watching was a daily delight for Judy. She surrounded her home with birdfeeders and eagerly attended the annual bird watching festival at Indiana Dunes State Park with her daughter Angie. She joyously shared the intricate details of nature she captured in her photographs with her family and friends.

Judy's green thumb was evident in her beautiful Fairie garden and her active participation in the Lotus Garden Club, where she formed lasting friendships.

An avid reader, Judy found solace in the works of Louis L'Amour. She cheered for her favorite Detroit Lions player, Aiden Hutchinson, and admired WNBA star, Caitlin Clark. She was adamant in her belief that "her" Detroit Lions would soon win a Super Bowl.

Judy had a love for horses and shared the thrill of watching the Kentucky Derby, The Belmont and The Preakness with her daughters Angie and Alisha, something that became a treasured tradition. She also owned a racing horse business with her father, R & J Quarter Horses, on Williams Road in Newport Michigan.

Judy cherished family outings to the theater in Chicago, where they enjoyed Broadway shows together. She had a flair for dressing up in unique vintage headwear and jewelry, adding a touch of elegance and fun to every occasion. She also enjoyed the Walnut Room visits she took yearly with her friends Marci and George during her Christmas visits to Chicago.

Judy and her daughter Alisha shared a special bond over their love for the midnight sky. They often exchanged photographs of the moon and stars, connecting their homes in Tennessee and Michigan through their shared wonder.

Antiquing was more than a hobby for Judy; it was her passion and business. As a antique dealer, she met wonderful people and shared her treasures, bringing joy to many others with her knowledge of each item she sold, and a bit of history about her wares.

Generosity defined Judy's life. She frequently helped others by providing school supplies for classrooms and donating to wildlife foundations.

Judy's involvement in many clubs and areas of interests included cheerleading at Jefferson High School, Chi Omega at Michigan State University, Campfire Group Leader, Girl Scout Leader, Rabbit Rangers 4-H Club Leader, Miata Club, Lake Erie Metro Park Hiking Club, Lotus Garden Club of Monroe, and Monroe Archeology Club. She received many awards for her dedication to these things that were important to her, and enjoyed the many people she met, as many of them also became her chosen family.

Judy is survived by her daughters, Angelina Valente of Valparaiso, IN and Alisha (Courtney Roberts) Valente of Niota, TN; sister, Linda (David) Regelin of Monroe, MI; four nieces: Jennifer (Jeff) West and their children, Dakota, Logan, Nolan and Grant, of Monroe, MI; Amanda (Andrew) Osborne and their children, Addison, Drew and Abigail of Howell, MI; Amy (Wayne) Bitto and their child, Oliver of Toledo, OH; and Kimberly (Todd) Russell and their children, Jacob and Kasey of Saint Joseph, MI; two nephews, Joseph (Tamara Anderson) Valente of Kenosha, WI and Robert (Rebecca) Maxwell and their children, Ronen and Noah of Chicago, IL; And special beloved family and friends: Richard Valente of Chicago, IL, Lyn and David Harmon of Newport, MI, Patricia Witzke (sister-in-law) of Anacortes, WA, Sophia Valente (sister-in-law) of Twin Lakes, WI, David Sodt (cousin) of Jackson, MI, Shirley Bruce (cousin) of Jackson, MI, Eugene Huber (cousin) of Milan, MI, Mary Jo Ernst (cousin) of Benton Harbor, MI, Darlis (Hugh) Townsend (cousin) and her children Heidi, Scott and Kevin of Rockford, MI, Jannet and George Low of Monroe, MI, and Lori Crays of Carleton, MI.

Our beloved Judy, a cherished mother, friend, and adventurer, has left us with a legacy of love and memories that will forever warm our hearts. Her spirit, generosity, and love for life and fun will forever be remembered by her daughters and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a tapestry of memories woven with love, laughter, and the beauty of the world she so deeply cherished.

Bacarella Funeral Home assisted the family with cremation and funeral arrangements. All are invited to join the family on Saturday, May 3rd at St. Paul's United Methodist Church (201 S. Monroe St., Monroe, MI 48161). Visitors may begin to arrive at 10 a.m. with her celebration of life beginning at 11 a.m. The church pastor, Rev. Rey Mondragon will officiate.

Donations in honor of Judy may be made to Howell Nature Center ( www.howellnaturecenter.org ).

Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .