Valerie Takvorian

Valerie Ann Takvorian passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a life devoted to learning, creativity, and kindness.
She was born on May 23, 1940, in Paterson, New Jersey, to the late George Takvorian and Agnes Tajarian.

Valerie spent the majority of her life in Clifton, New Jersey, where she built a career dedicated to education before later making her permanent home in East Arlington, Vermont, where she embraced the beauty and tranquility of the Green Mountains.

She was predeceased by her beloved parents, George and Agnes Takvorian; her sister, Violet Skenderian; her brother George Takvorian and her sister-in-law Christine Takvorian.

A proud graduate of Clifton High School, Valerie continued her education at New York University and Montclair State, earning a Master’s degree in Art and becoming certified as a Teacher of English as a Second Language. She devoted her professional life to the Paterson School District, where she touched the lives of countless students through her passion for teaching. Valerie especially treasured her years teaching English as a Second Language in the adult education program, helping newcomers gain confidence and opportunity through language. She also inspired young artists by sharing her love of creativity through teaching art. After a distinguished career spanning many years, she retired in 2012.

Teaching was more than Valerie’s profession-it was her calling. She believed in the potential of every student and approached each classroom with patience, compassion, and encouragement. Her quiet dedication and genuine care left a lasting impact on colleagues, students and their families.

In retirement, Valerie fulfilled her dream of living full-time in Vermont, where she found joy in nature and the close friendships she developed within her community. She had a remarkable artistic spirit and expressed it through painting, sculpting, and creating beautiful gardens filled with colorful flowers. She found happiness attending plays, displaying her art in exhibits, musical performances, and spending peaceful afternoons tending her flower gardens, and sharing laughter and meaningful conversations with dear friends.

Valerie is lovingly survived by her niece, Laura DeGrassie, her husband, Paris DeGrassie; their children, Paris Degrassie and Jade Degrassie; and her cherished great-nieces, Olive, Gemma, and Maisy. She is also survived by her niece, June Ann Sina, her husband, Anthony Sina; and their children, Gianna, Christian, and Gabriella; her nephew Gregory Takvorian; as well as many treasured friends in Vermont and New Jersey whose lives were enriched by her kindness, generosity, and friendship.

Valerie’s wishes were to be cremated. A private cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, when family and friends can gather to honor her life, share memories, and celebrate the love, kindness, creativity, and joy she brought to so many. Details regarding the Celebration of Life will be announced by the family.

Valerie will be remembered for her gentle heart, artistic soul, generous spirit, and unwavering belief in the power of education. She lived a life rich in creativity, compassion, and service to others. Her warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Though she is no longer with us, the beauty she created, the knowledge she shared, and the lives she touched will continue to bloom for generations to come.
May her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Valerie’s memory to plant a flower, create a work of art, or support an educational program that helps others learn and grow-reflecting the passions that defined her life.