Valerie A. Montgomery

Obituary: Valerie A. Montgomery (1958–2025)

Valerie A. Montgomery (Reed), 66, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, returned to the Lord on September 25, 2025.

Born December 9, 1958, in Ann Arbor at UM Hospital, Valerie spent most of her life in Ypsilanti, with chapters in Southern Florida and Upstate New York. Wherever she was, she carried herself with quiet strength, deep faith, and a presence that lit up every room she entered.

Valerie was a remarkable student; brilliant, athletic, and driven. She graduated summa cum laude from Willow Run High School in 1977, lettering in three sports. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Management from Oakland University in 1981, setting the tone for a life defined by excellence and perseverance.

Her professional journey was wide and varied, with standout roles including her time as a Senior Account Executive at PHP in Baldwinsville, NY, and later as a receptionist at M-CARE (University of Michigan). She brought warmth, intelligence, and poise to every position she held.

Even when life presented her with profound challenges; including a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, and later breast cancer, Valerie never once complained. Not once. She met every trial with unshakable courage, steady grace, and unwavering faith, always giving thanks to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her favorite verse was Proverbs 3:5-6, and she lived it daily: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path."

Valerie was a woman of deep intentionality. She poured her love into those around her, especially into her greatest joy and legacy – her son, Brandan. In every season of life, she showed up as the best mother she could be, modeling kindness, discipline, faith, and a deep love of learning. She was as proud of him as he was of her.

She had music in her bones! Valerie knew the lyrics to every song and always sang along. Whether it was a hymn, soul classic, or gospel chorus, she lifted her voice until the very end, offering her praise through melody and memory.

Valerie is survived by her loving parents Raymond and Shirley Reed; her devoted son, Brandan Montgomery and daughter-in-law Alesha; her cherished granddaughter, Nuriyah; two beloved brothers, Gary (Debra) and Michael (Lisa) Reed; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will carry her light forward. She was a daughter, a mother, a grandmother, a sister, and a friend; but above all, she was a servant of God.

Her life was a testament to faith, beauty, brilliance, and intentional love. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

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