Valerie Elizabeth Harris

                                                                                       OUR BELOVED 

                                                                            Valerie Elizabeth Wells Harris

                                                                                        1953-2025

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord. " Matthew 25:33

Valerie Elizabeth Wells Harris peacefully departed this life on December 12, 2025 at her home in Hampton, VA . Born on November 17, 1953 to the late Arlena and William A. Wells, Sr.,. Valerie embraced her faith in Christ early in life and carried it through every season.

She was a devoted member of First Gravel Hill Baptist Church in Smithfield, Virginia where she found community, purpose and a deep sense of belonging. In her later years she attended Grove Church in Portsmouth, Virginia continuing to nurture her walk with Christ and served faithfully on their hospitality committee.

A proud graduate of Smithfield High School Class of 1972, Valerie began her career at General Electric before pursuing her passion for beauty at Portsmouth Beauty School. She was truly a people person; talented, creative and full of warmth. Throughout her life she worked in retail, sales, beauty and food service, always offering a welcoming smile and uplifting spirit.

After retirement she continued to share her joy through her work at Kroger and Hampton City Schools. Her heart especially lit up when working with children, a joy magnified during her treasured time with her great- nephew “Mr. Boone,” who lovingly called her his best friend. The greatest joy of her life was her son Dante. Their bond was a powerful example of a mother’s deep and unconditional love. Their playful rivalry: her cheering for Washington and him for the Cowboys was a family tradition that brought laughter to every gathering.

Valerie’s love for family knew no bounds. Her devoted care for her brother Michael was one of the many examples of her unwavering heart. She will be remembered for her radiant smile, sharp wit, and the vibrant spirit she brought wherever she went. Her joy was contagious, leaving an enduring impression on all who knew her,

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arlene and William A Wells, Sr., and her beloved son, Dante. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving siblings: Theresa O. Wells (Alexandria, VA), William A. Wells, Jr., (Hampton, VA), James G. Wells (Cheryl) (Surry, VA), Walter M. Wells (Smithfield, VA), Gail C. Wells (Suwanee, GA) Stevan O. Wells (Hampton, VA), and Rhonda “Susie” Bradby,(Smithfield, VA), her cherished confidant, beloved cousin, and dear friend. She is also survived by her aunt, Brenda J. Jones; her uncle Irving Jones; and her granddaughter Alena Elizabeth Harris.

Valerie’s legacy lives on in her adored nieces and nephews: Jada Pace (Howard0., Ashely Wells, Imani Wells, Whitney Wells, Christian Lewis and Harold Lewis, III (Summer), along with a host of extended family and friends who will forever carry her memory their hearts.

Valerie’s warmth, kindness and exuberant spirit enriched every life she touched. Though her absence leaves a deep and painful void, her legacy of love, joy and compassion will continue to guide and inspire us. May we honor her by living with the same generosity, the same laughter, and the same boundless love that she so beautifully shared.

On Friday, December 19, 2025, viewing will take place from 3-6pm at First Gravel Hill Baptist Church, 5230 Old Stage Highway, Smithfield, VA 23430. At 11am on Saturday, December 20, 2025, a Celebration of Life will also be held at First Gravel Hill Baptist Church. The interment will follow the service in First Gravel Hill Cemetery. Please keep the Wells and Harris family in your thoughts and prayers.