Valerie Magdalene Durand, of Carbondale, passed away April 12, 2008, with three of her four children and her loving daughter-in-law by her side.

She was born March 2, 1938.

Valerie worked for Bill Rinaldi’s Aspen Floorcovering of Basalt since she moved to Carbondale from Texas 17 years ago.

Valerie is survived by sons James (Connie Overton) Gilliam of Carbondale, and Alan (Kathy Varney) Gilliam of Crowley, Texas; daughters Valerie Eudora (Jim Githens) Gilliam, and Julie Anna Faktor, all of Carbondale; sister Dolores Damrel of Houston; niece Laurin Martinez of Houston; brother Gilbert Durand of Woodward, Okla.; nine grandchildren; and 16 nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Wilderness Workshop of Carbondale.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. April 27 at the home of Valerie Gilliam and Jim Githens in Missouri Heights. A casual potluck dinner will be served after the service. Everyone who knew Valerie is encouraged to attend to share stories and celebrate Valerie’s life. Please call 963-9311 for directions.