Valerie Sue Hurd Kelly

December 12, 1953 - July 30, 2012
Valerie Sue Hurd Kelly

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Valerie Sue Hurd Kelly, who resided in Cary NC, died unexpectedly Monday July 30, 2012 in Wilmington NC.

She was born December 12, 1953 in Charles City, Iowa to Eris Carr Hurd and the late Jim Hurd.

In addition to her mother, also surviving are her daughter, Gabriel Kelly Smith and husband Marlian Smith, sister, Emily Munn and husband Mike, and brother, Clayton Hurd and wife Heather.

She will be missed by many friends and family including nephews, Glenn Cavenaugh, wife Cheryl, Paul Cavenaugh, wife Kathy, Larry Munn, Andrew Hurd, fiancé Kady; nieces, Jessica Buskirk, husband Seth, Abby Wilcox, husband Ross, Ella Hurd, and many grand-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sister Melissa Hurd Cavenaugh.

Valerie was a person who brought a smile and joy to everyone she met, especially those who were fortunate enough to be her family or friend. She was a gifted healer, her touch restored and renewed peoples’ bodies and spirits. Her beautiful laugh and positive energy touched us all

A Celebration of life gathering will be held Sunday, August 5, 2012 from 5-7pm at Wilmington Funeral Chapel.

Per request of Valerie please wear bright colors.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral and Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • August 13, 2012
    Vivian Blanchard Hunter says:
    Eris and Gabriel, Please know that I am at a loss to comprehend that Valerie is gone. At least her spirit lives on in my heart. She had an almost mystical beauty and grace about her that was hers alone. Gabriel, Valerie's grandfather and my grandmother were siblings. I remember you as a child. You and I are second cousins once removed. Please know that you are always welcome at my home in Raleigh any time. My phone number is 919-782-8100. I occasionally would "run into" your mother in Raleigh or Cary and we would talk. The first time was when my son was only 6 months old; he will be 34 in October. There's a short story of that memory I could share with you. Eris, what a loss for you; I'm so very sorry. Either of you can contact me if you care to for remembering Valerie and renewing kinship. Vivian

  • August 08, 2012
    Carroll Herndon says:
    I am Valerie's neighbor across the street and we had no idea this had happened until today when my wife went to get our mail a friend of Valerie's was driving by and asked us if we had seen any family lately. I had seen cars but thought it was part of her business we had grown accustomed to. I am so sorry for your loss and we are hurting and grieving with you. I last spoke with her about a month ago while running on the greenway and she was walking Beau-Chi. She always had a kind smile, an uplifiting spirit, and a soft, calming voice. She will be missed in the neighborhood.

  • August 09, 2012
    Jacob Smith says:
    I have lived directly across the street from Valerie for 12 years. It is with great shock and sadness that I have learned of her tragic and untimely death. Valerie was a special person - always pleasant with a very unique laugh. Her smile was unique too - and always quick! I saw her trimming her beloved Eucalyptus tree just before she left for Wilmington last week - she loved that tree and brought it back from certain death more than once! Many times when my dog would escape Valerie would put a leash on her and bring her back to my yard. Things will not be the same around the neighborhood without her - she will be greatly missed by all she came in contact with.

  • August 09, 2012
    Jesse O'Neal says:
    For more than 20 years Valerie was my friend, my healer. Her smile, her laugh, her silliness, her mischevious smile - precious memories. She can never be replaced and she will never be forgotten. My heart breaks for Gabriel and the rest of Val's wonderful family. Thanks Clayton for the hug on Sunday. I'm always here for you. Jesse

  • August 09, 2012
    Della Deal says:
    Valerie was a very sweet and kind friend to me when I really needed someone the most. I will remember her always as a wonderful soul. I am so sorry for your loss. - Della Deal her old friend in the mountains