Valarie Rowe Wilkerson

Mrs. Valarie Rowe Wilkerson, 66 passed away Wednesday, September 25, 2024, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Valarie was born in Gladwin, Michigan on January 11, 1958, to the late O.B. Rowe and Barbara Martin.

Valarie graduated with her bachelor’s degree from Troy University and enhanced her qualifications by obtaining a master’s degree plus 30 credits from Auburn University. These academic accomplishments laid the foundation for her influential career in education, where she touched countless lives. Valarie dedicated 43 years of her career to teaching, with the latter spent at Spartanburg School District #7 as a special education teacher at Carver Middle School. Her passion for education was evident in her commitment to her students and her relentless pursuit to improve their lives through learning.

Beyond her professional life, her family was her pride and joy, and she took great delight in her role as an excellent Mimi, always finding joy in sharing moments with her grandsons. Valarie was married to her late spouse, Mr. Sammy E. Wilkerson, for 27 years before his passing. Their marriage was a testament to companionship and love, and she held dear the memories they built together.

Valarie is survived by her daughter; Jan Shook (Luther), and her grandsons, Wyatt and Trey Shook, and her mother; Barbara Martin. She was predeceased by her husband; Sammy E. Wilkerson and her father; O.B. Rowe.

In remembrance of Valarie, visitation will be held on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Floyd's Greenlawn Chapel, located at 2075 E Main St, Spartanburg, SC. Following this, a graveside service will take place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens located at 1300 Fernwood Glendale Rd, Spartanburg, SC.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in her honor to St. Jude’s Children’s hospital; ALSAC/ St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 ST. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

The JF Floyd Mortuary- Greenlawn Chapel