Valerie Anne Smythe
A life that touched so many hearts will be forever remembered.
Obituary
Valerie Anne Smythe, was a cherished resident of Farnborough, Hampshire. She passed away peacefully on April 6, 2025, at the age of 83.
Born in Knowle, West Midlands on June 7, 1942, to Kathleen Brambleby and Reginald Brambleby, and sibling to her dear brother John Brambleby, Valerie was a beacon of love and compassion, traits that endeared her to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Valerie's life was a testament to love, resilience, fun and generosity.
With over four decades of marriage with her beloved husband, Kenneth Robert Smythe, their partnership was a source of inspiration to all of their extended family and friends, as they navigated life's journey hand in hand, marked by a deep mutual respect and unwavering support.
As a devoted mother, Valerie leaves behind her two children, Lee and Faye and Step children Andrew and Carol, her 9 Grandchildren, Rudy, Charlie, Oliver, Georgia, Maggie, Ruth, Bradley, Connor and Kieran as well as her much loved daughters in law Jenny and Katarina.
Many were deeply enriched by her unconditional love and friendship. She was a nurturing, positive influence to so many, a constant source of strength and comfort, always pushing them to pursue their dreams and face challenges with courage and grace.
Although Valerie's world revolved around her family, her warmth extended far beyond, touching the lives of so many in her community and her beloved friends whom she loved and cherished.
Valerie was well known for her active participation in many local Amateur dramatics such as Pals, Playmakers and Savoysingers.
Her passion for amateur dramatics showcased her creativity and zest for life, illuminating community stages with her performances and infusing them with a sense of fun and camaraderie. Valerie's commitment to the arts brought together members of the community, fostering lasting connections and friendships
One of Valerie’s passions was her garden where she cultivated not only a vibrant array of flowers but also a sanctuary of tranquility for family and friends. Her love for nature was reflected in her artistry— her garden a testament to her creativity, and patient, loving care.
Valerie's fun-loving nature and positivity left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Valerie’s legacy of kindness and countless acts of love and generosity as she selflessly dedicated her time to helping those around her, will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. She will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched.
If you would like to donate to a charity close to Mums heart, here are the following links. 💖
https://roycastle.org/ways-to-give
www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/will-you-help-our-nurses-be-there-more-people-sd2?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid_social&utm_campaign=faf_services_sd2&utm_id=&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAA9VmYOV24th68KekzXlLYm8MLyYW-&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhciRsejNjAMVgZRQBh2oVTz2EAAYASAAEgLVevD_BwE
https://donate.cancerresearchuk.org/donate?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw--K_BhB5EiwAuwYoypeZ2-N-xZYDozKqDKFT-Uf3B32J3oHJi7fEL2Eyd2pT6_MExY5FtRoCPbgQAvD_BwE
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May 19, 2025
To Mom,
I’ll hear you in the quivering leaves,
Feel you on the breeze,
where the birds are sweetly singing,
Beneath a canopy of trees,
and though life without you,
makes my heart so sad,
I know that you’ll have found me,
and life won’t seem so bad.
With every little bumble bee, which always hold such bliss,
(little messengers from Nan) will now direct my thoughts to this;
The moment that you turned to me,
when I was sitting by your bed,
you squeezed my hand so tightly,
and eye to eye you said:
“Remember that I love you, I really really do”
I held your gaze and whispered back how much I love you too.
That moment shared between us Mom,
from the universe, a sign,
Of hope, and love eternal,
From your heart, straight to mine.
Rudy and I love you and miss you 💜
I’ll hear you in the quivering leaves,
Feel you on the breeze,
where the birds are sweetly singing,
Beneath a canopy of trees,
and though life without you,
makes my heart so sad,
I know that you’ll have found me,
and life won’t seem so bad.
With every little bumble bee, which always hold such bliss,
(little messengers from Nan) will now direct my thoughts to this;
The moment that you turned to me,
when I was sitting by your bed,
you squeezed my hand so tightly,
and eye to eye you said:
“Remember that I love you, I really really do”
I held your gaze and whispered back how much I love you too.
That moment shared between us Mom,
from the universe, a sign,
Of hope, and love eternal,
From your heart, straight to mine.
Rudy and I love you and miss you 💜
May 11, 2025
1
Val was a dear and caring friend to my mum, Iris, for nearly 40 years after we became neighbours in the house across the road. They had many holidays together and Val was an enormous support as mum became more frail, eventually supporting her in the last few hours of her life, for which we were so grateful.
I remember well how much mum and dad enjoyed Val and Ken’s company and hospitality over the years.
We know how much mum valued Val’s friendship and support and how important she was in mum’s life. We remember Val as a kind, happy and thoughtful person who put her family and friends before herself and was always doing something to help others. She will be greatly missed.
I remember well how much mum and dad enjoyed Val and Ken’s company and hospitality over the years.
We know how much mum valued Val’s friendship and support and how important she was in mum’s life. We remember Val as a kind, happy and thoughtful person who put her family and friends before herself and was always doing something to help others. She will be greatly missed.
May 2, 2025
2
Who could wish for a better friend.
Beautiful inside and out. Always thoughtful towards everyone and generous and kind
With whom am I going to talk 'History' now Val?
Love you for ever, Reet x
Beautiful inside and out. Always thoughtful towards everyone and generous and kind
With whom am I going to talk 'History' now Val?
Love you for ever, Reet x
April 29, 2025
Dear Val always full of fun and joie de vivre. Her great loves were her family, friends and garden. We had many good times together in the Am Dram world we shared, I remember us wheeling an old bicycle round Buxton when there for the G&S festival, we laughed all the way. She will be sorely missed by all the Societies she helped with hair and make up and the occasional stage appearance.
I was very envious of her lovely garden, very calm & welcoming.
I saw her in hospital 2 days before she died, though frail she still had her hair done and nails painted and we chatted for nearly and hour. She was more concerned with me as my husband had only died the week before typical caring Val.
I was very envious of her lovely garden, very calm & welcoming.
I saw her in hospital 2 days before she died, though frail she still had her hair done and nails painted and we chatted for nearly and hour. She was more concerned with me as my husband had only died the week before typical caring Val.
April 27, 2025
Val was very kind, extremely caring and so full of energy & enthusiasm.
She will be greatly missed by me & all her many friends.
She will be greatly missed by me & all her many friends.
April 24, 2025
4
Valerie was such a vibrant and special person, she always brought me so much happiness every time I saw her. She just knew how to make everyone laugh constantly and how to bring the joy out of whoever she was with. I’ll never forget dancing with her in the kitchen at the house in Deal and just drinking wine and being silly on the balcony. I’ll never forget Valerie, she was a very special lady and I’m going to miss her always
April 23, 2025
4
I have so many lovely happy memories of Valerie. She was such a positive and vibrant person who lived life to the full and was always good fun to be around. She was such great company and always had an interesting tale to tell. I will forever treasure the memories of times spent together, whether that be her many visits to Deal or our trips to the Isle of Wight and Dorset and many many happy family gatherings. They won't be the same without her.
One of her passions was her beautiful garden and I remember several times when on trips out, she would be sneakily taking cuttings of plants she spotted and liked!
Above all, Val was a kind, loving and generous person, for whom family and friends meant everything. She always made people feel welcome and would go out of her way to help. I will miss her so much. Rest in peace, Valerie.
One of her passions was her beautiful garden and I remember several times when on trips out, she would be sneakily taking cuttings of plants she spotted and liked!
Above all, Val was a kind, loving and generous person, for whom family and friends meant everything. She always made people feel welcome and would go out of her way to help. I will miss her so much. Rest in peace, Valerie.
April 22, 2025
It came as a great shock to know of Valerie's passing as I had no idea she was poorly.
Val was a huge bundle of fun, with boundless levels of energy. Her impersonations were legendary, in particular, the take-off of clucking chickens as they scratched the earth with their heads bobbing!
With her hairdressing and artistic skills, Val was a much admired member of the Am Dram world, where she would regularly do hair, make up and props for many local society shows. She also had a beautiful well tended garden, which was the envy of many.
Above all, Valerie was extremely kind, thoughtful and generous, always going the extra mile for her family and friends. It is just disappointing that her numerous friends will be unable to collectively pay their last respects.
Valerie, we salute you and thank you for your long friendship.
Val was a huge bundle of fun, with boundless levels of energy. Her impersonations were legendary, in particular, the take-off of clucking chickens as they scratched the earth with their heads bobbing!
With her hairdressing and artistic skills, Val was a much admired member of the Am Dram world, where she would regularly do hair, make up and props for many local society shows. She also had a beautiful well tended garden, which was the envy of many.
Above all, Valerie was extremely kind, thoughtful and generous, always going the extra mile for her family and friends. It is just disappointing that her numerous friends will be unable to collectively pay their last respects.
Valerie, we salute you and thank you for your long friendship.
April 18, 2025
5
Nanny, I have tried to write this message a few different times now but nothing I write feels like enough.
You brightened the life of every person who ever got the pleasure of knowing you. You were the most loving and caring woman I have ever known. You were always the calm in the chaos. I will be forever grateful for the time I had with you and the lessons I learnt. You would always call us your treasures and now you will be forever treasured by us. I miss you every day. Rest peacefully Nanny, I love you.
You brightened the life of every person who ever got the pleasure of knowing you. You were the most loving and caring woman I have ever known. You were always the calm in the chaos. I will be forever grateful for the time I had with you and the lessons I learnt. You would always call us your treasures and now you will be forever treasured by us. I miss you every day. Rest peacefully Nanny, I love you.
April 17, 2025
2
Dearest Val lit up the room when she walked in. We will miss her smile, her sense of fun and most of all, hearing her beautiful laugh. We count ourselves lucky to have spent time with such a lovely lady and will miss her hugely. Love to her family. Xx
April 17, 2025
3
My dearest friend Valerie. Was only 16 when I first met you at Patricia’s hairdresser. You took me under your wing and helped me through my apprenticeship. One of most fondest and funny memories are when you used to go and get something for your lunch and Mr Coxon had the hots for you. He used to go all of a do da and his bald head used to go bright red! Normally was a miserable old devil, but you used to cheer him up. I’m sorry we lost touch but thank goodness found each other in the last few years. I was over The moon when you asked me to be Faye’s Godmother and I will always be there for her. God bless my dear Valerie with a very sad heart.❤️
April 17, 2025
3
Oh Val, I’ve been wondering how to write my message on this wall since last week.
You’ve known me since I was 11, and I spent so many happy times in your house as a teenager. When I think of your home, I remember cups of tea, curled up in your comfy chairs - and laughing with Ken and his guitar at Christmas time. When I opened the airing cupboard last week, I saw the hair towels that all of us sat in after you’d permed our hair, and it took me right back to those days.
You were at my wedding, you watched my children grow up, and always took an interest in what they were doing.
You were a constant in my life - you knew me as a girl, as a woman, as a mother and a wife. We saw each other at high points and low points. Births, deaths and marriages and everything in between.
I’m not sure how everyone will be able to grieve your loss, but I’m going to remember you whenever I drink hot tea, when I see a beautiful garden, when I listen to Dionne Warwick or Burt Bacharach, and when I look at your beautiful Grandson.
Sleep peacefully Val. Rest now ♥️
You’ve known me since I was 11, and I spent so many happy times in your house as a teenager. When I think of your home, I remember cups of tea, curled up in your comfy chairs - and laughing with Ken and his guitar at Christmas time. When I opened the airing cupboard last week, I saw the hair towels that all of us sat in after you’d permed our hair, and it took me right back to those days.
You were at my wedding, you watched my children grow up, and always took an interest in what they were doing.
You were a constant in my life - you knew me as a girl, as a woman, as a mother and a wife. We saw each other at high points and low points. Births, deaths and marriages and everything in between.
I’m not sure how everyone will be able to grieve your loss, but I’m going to remember you whenever I drink hot tea, when I see a beautiful garden, when I listen to Dionne Warwick or Burt Bacharach, and when I look at your beautiful Grandson.
Sleep peacefully Val. Rest now ♥️
April 16, 2025
1
My lovely neighbour, friend and fellow thespian. For 27 years, I have lived next door to this amazing, funny and inspirational woman. My children (now grown) loved her too. She organised Easter Egg hunts, let my daughter play in her garden (without prior knowledge) she did, however, draw the line when my daughter wanted Ken to make a little hatch between the party wall so she could get into bed with Auntie Valerie in the morning instead of mummy.
Val did the make up for all my productions and December 2023, played a hilarious pirate and stole the show.
She was there for me when my husband died young, she was there for me when I had cancer and I was there for her when she needed me.
I am proud of her and will miss her so much - it feels empty under this roof we shared.
Rest well and rest in love.
Val did the make up for all my productions and December 2023, played a hilarious pirate and stole the show.
She was there for me when my husband died young, she was there for me when I had cancer and I was there for her when she needed me.
I am proud of her and will miss her so much - it feels empty under this roof we shared.
Rest well and rest in love.
April 16, 2025
2
Dear Mum,
We miss you more than words can ever say.
Life without you feels quieter, a little dimmer, because you were the one who brought so much colour, warmth, and joy to our world. You had this incredible ability to light up a room just by walking into it. Your energy was infectious, your laughter unforgettable, and your love for life something we all admired deeply.
You truly lived life to the full.
You never sat still for long — always out and about, surrounded by people who adored you. Your social life was something else! You were the heartbeat of every gathering, the one everyone gravitated toward, the one who always knew how to make someone smile, feel seen, and feel special. It’s no wonder you were so loved — not just by us, but by so many others too.
One memory we keep so close to our hearts is the time we spent with you in Abu Dhabi. Especially when we 'camped out' in the desert, with the warm sand underfoot, the sun dipping low behind the dunes, and laughter echoing through the stillness, that was truly magical. You said afterwards that the memory became your bubble, a place you could return to in your mind when life felt heavy. Knowing that it brought you peace means the world to us. It's become our bubble too now — a safe, beautiful memory we can slip into whenever we miss you most.
We think of you every day.
Kat misses your chats, your warmth, and your kindness. Charlie and Oliver miss their lovely Nan, the one who made everything more fun, who gave the best cuddles and always made them feel so loved.
There’s a space in our lives now, but in that space lives all the memories, all the love, and everything you meant to us. And somehow, that keeps us going. Your spirit is everywhere, in the stories we tell, in the way we laugh, and in the way we try to live with the same openness and joy that you showed us.
Thank you for being our everything.
We’ll carry you with us, always.
With all our love,
Lee, Kat, Charlie & Oliver xx
We miss you more than words can ever say.
Life without you feels quieter, a little dimmer, because you were the one who brought so much colour, warmth, and joy to our world. You had this incredible ability to light up a room just by walking into it. Your energy was infectious, your laughter unforgettable, and your love for life something we all admired deeply.
You truly lived life to the full.
You never sat still for long — always out and about, surrounded by people who adored you. Your social life was something else! You were the heartbeat of every gathering, the one everyone gravitated toward, the one who always knew how to make someone smile, feel seen, and feel special. It’s no wonder you were so loved — not just by us, but by so many others too.
One memory we keep so close to our hearts is the time we spent with you in Abu Dhabi. Especially when we 'camped out' in the desert, with the warm sand underfoot, the sun dipping low behind the dunes, and laughter echoing through the stillness, that was truly magical. You said afterwards that the memory became your bubble, a place you could return to in your mind when life felt heavy. Knowing that it brought you peace means the world to us. It's become our bubble too now — a safe, beautiful memory we can slip into whenever we miss you most.
We think of you every day.
Kat misses your chats, your warmth, and your kindness. Charlie and Oliver miss their lovely Nan, the one who made everything more fun, who gave the best cuddles and always made them feel so loved.
There’s a space in our lives now, but in that space lives all the memories, all the love, and everything you meant to us. And somehow, that keeps us going. Your spirit is everywhere, in the stories we tell, in the way we laugh, and in the way we try to live with the same openness and joy that you showed us.
Thank you for being our everything.
We’ll carry you with us, always.
With all our love,
Lee, Kat, Charlie & Oliver xx
April 14, 2025
5
Our dear Aunty Val was such a genuine, fun, vibrant and warm personality and she will be so sorely missed by all of our heartbroken family. She touched many lives with her unique and instantly lovable character, I just wish we only got to enjoy her presence for longer. All of the Christmases, birthdays and family gatherings we had the pleasure of spending with her will
not feel the same from here on. I hope she is at peace now and she will never be forgotten. We love you Val xxx
not feel the same from here on. I hope she is at peace now and she will never be forgotten. We love you Val xxx
April 14, 2025
2
I'm heartbroken that our dear Aunt Val is no longer with us. She brought a special warmth and sparkle to every room—and to every garden too.
One of my favourite memories of her is from her 80th birthday party. She hosted it in her stunning garden, and I remember stepping into it and feeling completely enchanted.
It looked like something out of a storybook —roses and peonies in full bloom, colours bursting in every direction: a true wonderland. I remember thinking, “Surely she must have a gardener?" But no. It was all her. A true labour of love and a perfect reflection of who she was—elegant, vibrant, full of life.
That day, I also realised just how loved she was. The garden was packed with people who adored her. There was a barbershop quartet singing in the sunshine, a gorgeous cake and a photo frame passed around so she could capture a moment with each of her guests. She looked radiant—so happy, so proud, so thoroughly in her element, surrounded by flowers and family. Her heaven, I’m sure.
That’s the memory I’ll carry with me: Val, beaming with joy in her magical garden, surrounded by people who loved her as much as she deserved to be.
One of my favourite memories of her is from her 80th birthday party. She hosted it in her stunning garden, and I remember stepping into it and feeling completely enchanted.
It looked like something out of a storybook —roses and peonies in full bloom, colours bursting in every direction: a true wonderland. I remember thinking, “Surely she must have a gardener?" But no. It was all her. A true labour of love and a perfect reflection of who she was—elegant, vibrant, full of life.
That day, I also realised just how loved she was. The garden was packed with people who adored her. There was a barbershop quartet singing in the sunshine, a gorgeous cake and a photo frame passed around so she could capture a moment with each of her guests. She looked radiant—so happy, so proud, so thoroughly in her element, surrounded by flowers and family. Her heaven, I’m sure.
That’s the memory I’ll carry with me: Val, beaming with joy in her magical garden, surrounded by people who loved her as much as she deserved to be.
April 13, 2025
2
Our dear Aunty Bum Bum. We've only ever known you as such, and to us, you were, and always will be, family. We have so many photos of you from over the years that we couldn't decide which to share. It made us realise how big a part you played in our lives, looking back at all the memories. We are utterly lost without you but will promise to love, laugh, and dance through life as you always have. Until we meet again, dear Aunty Val. Love you forever, Corinne, Graham, Isaac, and Elijah. XXXXX
April 13, 2025
4
Val was my aunt but more crucially she was my friend. She bridged all age gaps with my kids and now their kids loving her kind company. Her visits to
The Isle of Wight each summer were always fun and they were always sunny! Just like her. I’m so sorry you’re gone - we will miss you so much x x x
The Isle of Wight each summer were always fun and they were always sunny! Just like her. I’m so sorry you’re gone - we will miss you so much x x x
April 12, 2025
5
Auntie Val, you are loved dearly and missed already
Sat with my mom talking about about your witty sense of humour and constant warm energy every time you were around anybody
Selfless, radiant, funny, caring
We will always remember you in the most positive and comforting way
Sat with my mom talking about about your witty sense of humour and constant warm energy every time you were around anybody
Selfless, radiant, funny, caring
We will always remember you in the most positive and comforting way
April 12, 2025
4
Dearest Valerie wherever you went you brought joy and laughter into so many people's lives, and you were also such a good listening ear when needed. I will never forget your kindness to Edna, my mother-in-law, and all you did for her. We had such fun over the years with our BBQs and other events not forgetting our annual trips to the Albert Hall to hear the carols. Rest easy dear friend, sending lots of love xxx
April 12, 2025
3
Val you were always a good friend to me when we lived in Elmsleigh Road.
Always member the times we spent in your lovely garden and with you doing the "Not too tight!" Perms.
You and Ken were always good friends to me.
Thank you for that.
Good journey in the spirit world hun. X
Always member the times we spent in your lovely garden and with you doing the "Not too tight!" Perms.
You and Ken were always good friends to me.
Thank you for that.
Good journey in the spirit world hun. X
April 11, 2025
2
Beautiful tribute to your mama darling ❤
Glad to have spent time with her, she was full of life.
May she be at peace in eternal rest with her love, Ken ❤ xxx
Glad to have spent time with her, she was full of life.
May she be at peace in eternal rest with her love, Ken ❤ xxx
April 11, 2025
2
Sending you all so much love Val was full of love and always so kind to me and my brood one of my best memories of Val was when she came trick or treating with us dressed as a witch she was such fun, she will be missed so much by us all xx
April 10, 2025
4
I’ve known Val for over 35 years through Yateley Musical Players and Savoy Singers. She was a joy to be with during shows or just getting together for coffee and a chat. I loved to listen to her stories, very often with amusing sound effects. I will miss Val very much and will cherish the wonderful memories she has left me with.
April 10, 2025
4
I really got to know Valerie after I had my son and Faye and I were mums with babies together. She was always kind and always caring, always so calm and yet ready to have a really good laugh and chat! I’m so happy that my son and I got to spend a few days with her and Faye and Rudy in the Isle of Wight… a trip I will always remember and be grateful for. Really happy memories! It was always lovely to see her and catch up and my son remembers when she dressed up as Yoda for Rudy’s birthday.. he loved her too.. a really lovely, kind lady! We are thinking of her whole family at this time. xxx
April 10, 2025
3
I have so many lovely memories growing up with Faye and spending time at your lovely welcoming home with your lovely Mum and Ken. My favourites are you and I singing and putting on dancing shows to Dionne Warwick for your Mum, and her fabulous perms, lots of love ❤️
April 10, 2025
4
We all loved Val and will miss her so much. She always brought the joy and the light ❤️
April 10, 2025
3
Always remember your mum pushing you to your full potential to follow your dreams in the entertainment industry… dancing. Singing, and drama. You got your talent from somewhere and she wanted the best for you. I also bumped into your mum at the snowgoose and she and I remembered one another and had a lovely quick catch up xxx
April 10, 2025
3
Fond childhood days playing in the garden with Faye or dropping by on the walk to the park. Always remember Val being happy.
Thoughts are with you x
Thoughts are with you x
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