Obituary of Valerie Jean McClain

Valerie Jean McClain was born on August 19th, 1953 to the late Eugene W. McClain, Sr. and Mary "Chris" (Williamson) McClain. She attended the parochial school system in West Philadelphia, Pa and graduated from Our Lady of Victory Elementary School and West Catholic for Girls High School in 1971. She attended Temple University and Community College of Philadelphia where she earned her Associates Degree in Science. Valerie dedicated her life to teaching and helping people and earned many certificates for CNA and Childhood Education in both Philadelphia and Delaware. She opened VJM Child Care at the home where she spent her entire childhood. This move was done to not only aid in the care of her father, but she wanted a place where her own grandchildren would be able to thrive. She moved to Claymont, De and became a Senior Extended Care Teacher at St. David's Episcopal Day School in Wilmington, De for 5 years. Continuing her love of teaching children, she helped the Neighborhood House School develop a program which made her the Arts and Crafts Specialist. Here she shined again developing class plans and teaching others her expertise. She being a very avid reader of books and loving to crochet and knit made two programs, one for the Claymont Library and one at Michael's Arts and Crafts. The group of ladies called themselves, The Happy Hookers." Valerie made the move again to go back to her nursing and worked for Heartland Hospice until she became ill. Valerie or Nan-Nan which all of her grand and great grandchildren called her, always valued family.

She is survived by her two daughters, Chrystal (Troy) Kelly and Ayana McClain-White. Her son-in-law Eric White, Sr with whom she considered her son. Eleven grandchildren, Mikeyia McClain Avery (Malik), Anasia McClain, Tiyrif McClain who preceded her in death, Rysheem Green, Kristofer McClain, Asia Green, Jahleil Gilmore, Sharyon Green, Marckwel McClain, Raihzeim McClain and Eric White, Jr. She has six great grandchildren, Zair'e, Emahj, Kaylaih, Miley, and Malik Jr. (Deuce) and Jonnah. Her sister Saundra McClain and brother Eugene McClain Jr. and one nephew Sean Ellis. Her childhood best friend Helene Ross-Williams. Ronald Green was her special partner for 24 years and a great part of her life.

A funeral service will be held at 11AM on Friday, November 16, 2018 at Collingdale First Church of the Nazarene, 212 MacDade Blvd, Collingdale, PA 19023.

Visitation will be from 9-11AM on Friday at the church.

Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations car be made to the American Cancer Society 1626 Locust St., Philadelphia, PA 19103.