VALERIE JENNINGS GODSOE

(October 17, 1934 – November 1, 2025) It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear sister, aunt, and friend, Valerie Jennings Godsoe, who passed away peacefully in New York City. She spent her final days surrounded by the views and loving friends she cherished from her Central Park West penthouse, a place that reflected her spirit in every way. Valerie grew up in Toronto and was the eldest of four children. A graduate of the University of Toronto with studies in Art and English, she began her career at Maclean's Magazine before moving to New York in the early 1960s with her first and only husband, Peter Jennings, as they both embarked on their media careers. New York quickly became her creative playground and lifelong home. Over the decades, Valerie built a remarkable career as a writer, columnist, photographer, and public-relations visionary. She was best known for her New York Diary column in the Toronto Sun, which ran for several years and featured her witty take on Manhattan life alongside her iconic celebrity photographs. Her work appeared in Maclean's, The Globe and Mail, and the Toronto Star, among others. Valerie got her start in media working across some of the most reputable organizations in the world, including the CBC, BBC, and The Merv Griffin Show, where she served as a publicist and talent booker. Her charm, creativity, and eye for what made people fascinating earned her respect throughout the industry. She later became the first Public Relations Director for Fabergé Inc., where she helped launch global beauty icons and celebrity collaborations with Margaux Hemingway, Joe Namath, Muhammad Ali, and Farrah Fawcett. During her Fabergé years, she also led the public relations campaign for the now-famous Mood Ring, one of the decade's most talked about cultural phenomena. As a New York celebrity photographer, Valerie captured countless stars throughout the 1970s, '80s, and '90s, always with her trademark blend of boldness and wit. Her photos revealed both the glamour and humanity of her subjects, earning her a devoted following in both Canada and the US. She also produced numerous charity galas and cultural events in New York, including Canada Salutes Lady Liberty, which brought together an extraordinary mix of stars and artists to celebrate Canada's creative contributions. Later in life, Valerie's passion turned to nature photography, particularly the landscapes and wildlife of Central Park. She loved capturing the park's changing seasons and dramatic scenes, including the doves, jays, and songbirds that visited her terrace, her beloved "love doves." Her photographs reflected her eye for beauty, humour, and the small wonders of everyday life. Her legendary garden parties at her Central Park West penthouse were the stuff of New York legend. Filled with laughter, art, music, and people from every corner of her wide, colorful circle. Valerie had a rare gift for connection, bringing together the most wonderful mix of souls. Valerie's creative spark and vivacious energy were unmatched. She could ignite a room with her stories and unmistakable vigour. She lived life on her own terms with passion, a unique vision, and a relentless creative spirit that never dimmed. Valerie was predeceased by her dear brothers, Peter Godsoe (Shelagh Godsoe) and Gerald Godsoe (Dale Godsoe); her beloved sister, Jane Delost (Tony Ferreira); and her beloved parents, Margaret and J. Gerald Godsoe. She is survived by her nieces and nephews, Craig Godsoe (Charles Melanson), Eden Godsoe (Jim King), Cynthia Godsoe, Suzanne Godsoe (Eric Henry), Stacey Godsoe (Leif Helmer), Laura Godsoe (Matt Reeder), and Derek Delost (Meredith Delost); and her adored grandnieces and grandnephews, all of whom she loved deeply and spoke of often. A private celebration of Valerie's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Central Park Conservancy (www.centralparknyc.org) or the Wild Bird Fund of New York City (www.wildbirdfund.org), honouring her love of nature and the countless feathered friends who brought her joy.