Obituary of Valerie Smith

Valerie (Burns) Smith, age 80, peacefully passed away on February 21^st, 2026.

Born in Douglas on the Isle of Man, Valerie spent her early life in England, living in London and Oxford before later moving to the United States. She earned both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in English, a discipline that shaped her lifelong devotion to words, learning, and thoughtful expression. She was particularly fond of Shakespeare.

Valerie began her career working for the Oxford English Dictionary and held various positions in publishing, pursuits well suited to her deep and resounding love for the English language. She later dedicated over 20 years to the Karafin School in Mount Kisco, where she impacted countless non-traditional students by helping them find their voice through written expression. She took particular pride in her work with the student council and the school’s literary magazine, guiding students with rigor, encouragement, and care.

Known for her sharp wit, ability to excel at trivia games, and the uncanny skill of having an appropriate quote for any and all occasions, Valerie delighted in knowledge and conversation. She loved football, Shakespeare, Hemingway and her family. She was fiercely protective of her family, and her greatest moments of joy came from being surrounded by those she loved.

Valerie is survived by her three children, Rosalind, Howard, and Patrick; her son-in-law, Matthew, and her daughter-in-law, Kelly; and her five grandchildren, Jonathan, Alex, Isabella, Erin, and Oliver, who were a constant source of pride and happiness.

Valerie will be remembered for her intellect, her generosity of spirit, and the lasting influence she had on her family and the many students whose lives she helped shape.

Her family will receive friends on February 27th from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Clark Associates Funeral Home, 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Doctors Without Borders or the World Wildlife Fund.