Valerie Jo Simpson-Ray

1958 - 2025

Valerie Jo Simpson-Ray

January 19, 1958 - July 5, 2025

Valerie Jo Eklund passed away on July 5, 2025 at the age of 67 surrounded by her family.

She was born to Lew and Jo Eklund (Huus) on January 19, 1958 in Monticello, Utah while her parents were on a uranium drilling project. During her childhood she moved with her family over 30 times before permanently calling Carlin, NV their home where she resided until she passed. Valerie attended Carlin High School where she played many sports and gained many friends. She was on the track team all four years, individually winning two events and helping win the first state championship for Carlin High School her Junior year. She was on the cheer squad, drill team, volleyball team, and basketball team all four years until she graduated in 1976, the year she was Homecoming Queen.

Valerie's first love story was with Ted Simpson which began in high school, where the two quickly became inseparable sweethearts, marrying in 1977. Together, they raised three children: Brock, Tara, and Rex. While these three were her biological children, Valerie was truly a "mom" to every child in the neighborhood. Her home was always open, a gathering place for all the kids in the community. Whether it was feeding a crowd, hosting backyard BBQs with a trampoline to jump on, a treehouse to explore, a tire swing to swing on, or sometimes even a pony or dirt bike to ride on in the yard, Valerie made sure every child felt welcome and cherished. One of her greatest joys came from supporting her children at every sporting event, where she was never just a spectator. Often stepping into the role of coach, she guided and inspired not only her own kids but all the young athletes she mentored along the way.

Val's second love was Troy Eldridge, with whom she shared 17 wonderful years, traveling together to ropings all across Nevada. Their time was spent between Carlin and Ely, where Troy ranched and Val immersed herself in the joy of cooking and hosting, always welcoming others with open arms. Val's love for the ranch extended to her grandkids, who would often join her during the summers. Together, they created lasting memories whether it was caring for the animals, taking trips into town, swimming at the reservoir, or belting out car karaoke on the drives home. Though her relationship with Troy eventually came to an end, their friendship remained a constant, enduring over the years.

Val's third and final love was Tom Ray, with whom she spent the final years of her life. Together, they created a world of cherished memories, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life. They loved to host lively seafood boils at her barn surrounded by friends and family. Their love for adventure led them on frequent trips to Mississippi and Oregon, as well as memorable camping excursions across Nevada. In their journey, they embraced the joy of their every-growing family sharing 30 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, whom they adored and spoiled with the love and affection that only grandparents can offer.

Val was a selfless soul with an irreplaceable presence in all the lives of those who had the privilege to know her. She dedicated her life to the well-being of others, always putting the needs of her family, friends, community members, and even strangers above her own. She had a rare gift of making everyone feel seen, heard, and always loved. No one left her home without knowing they had a safe space to run to, a warm meal to share, a cold drink to enjoy, and a strong shoulder to lean on - her generosity knew no limits. Her door was always open and her heart even more so.

Valerie's love for life was infectious. Her sense of humor was legendary with endless stories, witty remarks, and jokes that never failed to bring a smile to all those around her. And true to her nature, she always knew someone who was somehow related to someone, she had an endless web of connections and could make friends with strangers in line at the grocery store.

Val is preceded in death by her ex-husband and friend, Ted Simpson; her father and mother, Lew and Jo Eklund; and her sister, Candice Eklund Kley. She is survived by her husband, Tom Ray; brother, Lance (Joanne) Eklund; sister, Sheri (Randy Brown) Eklund-Brown; her son, Brock (Ami) Simpson; daughter, Tara (Juan) Gonzalez; son, Rex (Alyssa) Simpson; grandchildren, Tristen Simpson, Hailee (Millie) Simpson, Tierra Hopkins, Adara (Randy) Quesada, Cade Gonzalez, and Maddox and Kylo Simpson; honorary grandson, Andrew (Jenna) Simpson; great-grandchildren, Aria and Avery Quesada and Cohen and Rhett Hopkins. She was also blessed with many stepchildren and grandchildren from her husband's side, as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews all of whom she loved and cherished as part of her extended family.

A service to honor her life will be held on Saturday, July 19th at 11 a.m. at the Performing Arts Center, located at 651 13th Street in Elko. Graveside services will follow at the Carlin Cemetery, 1202 Fir Street.

Afterward, all are invited to a celebration of life reception at the new Carlin Firehouse building, 121 W Hamilton Street at 2:30 p.m. We welcome friends and loved ones to gather, share memories, and celebrate the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

Valerie's legacy of kindness, generosity, and humor will forever be cherished, and she will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.