TOPSHAM — Valerie P. McAleenan of the Highlands, died peacefully Thursday, May 20, at the age of 84 surrounded by her family. Family and friends knew her as a gracious, genuine and caring individual, who always went out of her way to help another in need.

She was born in Maryland, the daughter of Marion and Edith. Her parents raised her in Montevideo, Uruguay. At the age of sixteen she returned to Virginia to complete her high school education. She graduated from Wheaton College located in Norton, MA.

She met her husband while attending Wheaton College and upon graduation moved to Mere Point, Brunswick ME. Later the family moved to Norwich, VT where she worked as an insurance agent. Upon retirement she moved back to Orrs Island, ME.

She was a communicant and volunteer at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. She also volunteered at The Gathering Place in Brunswick and Orrs Island library. Her happiest times were spent with family and friends. She enjoyed the ocean, whether it was boating, kayaking or swimming. Her hobbies included Theosophy, love of the outdoors and porch surfing looking over the many bays, coves and rivers that make up the Maine coast.

Valerie was predeceased by her parents Marion and Edith; and nephew Kevin. Survivors include her brother Gardner and his wife Barbara of Isle of Palms, SC.; a daughter, Kerry M. Williams and her husband Robert of Bristol, NH; a son Michael G. McAleenan and his wife Patricia of Georgetown, ME; twin sons Patrick M. McAleenan Jr., of Virginia Beach, VA., and James M. McAleenan and his wife Maria of Reading, MA.; five grandchildren and two nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm., Saturday, June 3, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 27 Pleasant St, Brunswick, ME. The Reverend Carolyn H. Eklund, rector of St. Paul’s will officiate and preach.

Arrangements by Brackett Funeral Home, 29 Federal St., Brunswick.

The McAleenan family are very grateful and would like to thank the Highlands staff for their wonderful care and attention given to our mother during her last years.


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