Valerie Joyce Wright, 57, was born January 25, 1962 in St. Louis, Missouri. Valerie was an only child of Lawrence Kendall and Mary (Ritchie) Kendall. She was preceded in death by both parents.

Valerie completed her early education at Beaumont High School in the public school district of St. Louis, Missouri. She later attended Washington University in St. Louis to study nursing.

Valerie married Ricky Harding and to this union four children were born, Alicia, Ricky Jr., Michael and Tyrone. She later married Michael W. Wright on July 28, 2012 in Reno, Nevada. She and Michael shared their life together with her and his children.

Valerie was an avid animal lover and owner of a beautiful black velvet cat named Timba. Valerie had a love for old TV shows particularly Gun Smoke. Although Valerie could cook, she enjoyed watching Bizarre Foods America with Andrew Zimmern, Anthony Bourdain, and Adam Richman. She enjoyed entertaining with her husband Mike and close friends hosting outside barbeques with lots of food, music and joking around.

Valerie remained strong although her health had her incapacitated at times. She entered rehabilitation with the will and strength on plans to return home. She will now share a heavenly home with her parents whom she loss at a very young age.

Valerie transitioned from this life on June 30, 2019 at Redwood of Blue River Rehabilitation Center after a long illness. She will be truly missed by family and friends that knew her well.

Valerie leaves to cherish her memory: her husband, Michael W. Wright; daughter, Alicia Harding of Columbia, MO; sons, Michael Harding and Tyrone Harding of Columbia, MO and Ricky Harding, Jr. of Jefferson City, MO; mother-in-law, Vivienne Smith; brother-in-law, Alec Templeton of Phoenix, AZ; sisters in-law, Kathie Moss, Dr. Johnett LaBrie Phillips, and Dee Evans, all of Kansas City; nine grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

Memorial services Saturday, July 20, 1:00 p.m. at The View Community Center, Grandview, MO. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.