Valerie Gilmore Obituary

Valerie J. Gilmore, 76, of Peoria, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and unwavering love that will be cherished by all who knew her.

She was born on July 7, 1949, in Peoria, Il to Raymond and Bernice (Stockwell) Burnette. Valerie attended Richwoods High School graduating in 1967 and went on to earn her Bachelor's of Arts in Education from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. During her college years, she was a proud member of Alpha Gamma Delta, where she formed meaningful bonds and embraced the values of sisterhood.

Valerie dedicated many years of her life to teaching, bringing compassion, patience, and a genuine love of learning to every classroom she entered. Most recently teaching at Kiefer School in Peoria, after dedicating many years to St. Thomas School, also of Peoria. She was treasured by colleagues and families and remembered by generations of students for the kindness and encouragement she shared so freely.

Known for her compassion, infectious smile, humor, and creative spirit, Valerie filled her life with the things she loved most. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, gardening, scrapbooking, reading, journaling, and creating a warm and welcoming home. Above all, she cherished raising her four beautiful children and found her greatest joy in her family.

Valerie was a devoted mother, grandmother, friend, teacher, daughter, and sister. She is survived by her children: Timothy (Mandy) Gilmore, Kathleen (John) Darling, Michael Gilmore, and James (Christine) Gilmore. She is also lovingly survived by her grandchildren-Caden Gilmore; Brady and John Henry Darling; Wren and Isla Gilmore; Jenna Aeschliman; and Jackson, Danielle, and Madison Gilmore-who brought her endless pride, laughter, and joy.

Valerie's legacy of love, creativity, and kindness will live on in all those whose lives she touched.

A visitation will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 12:30 p.m. at St. Philomena Church in Peoria, Illinois. Fr. Luke Spannagel officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to help offset medical and funeral expenses.

Tributes and condolences may be left at www.wrightandsalmon.com