Jimmy Sue "Sue" Valentine

Jimmy Sue Valentine, 75, called to her eternal home on August 11, 2025, after a long battle with Alzheimer's. She was born November 6, 1949, in Virginia Beach, VA, to Jim and Dot McClellan. Sue was a devoted wife, mother, sister, friend, and Christian. She graduated from Nathan Bedford Forrest High School in Jacksonville, FL, and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Florida State University. Discovering a passion for teaching, Sue returned to school at the University of Southern Mississippi after having her three children and obtained her teaching certificate. Sue began her career as a kindergarten teacher in McComb, MS, and continued teaching after moving back to Zachary. She taught 5th grade for 6 years at Brownfields Baptist Academy and completed her teaching career at Northwestern Middle School in Zachary, where she taught for 16 years. Throughout her career, she touched the lives of countless children and their families. Sue was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Zachary for 45 years and embodied a profound love for the Lord. Sue is survived by her beloved husband of 52 years, Ronald W. Valentine; daughter Susan Sandifer (Randy), daughter Stacy Criddle (Kevin), and son Scott Valentine (Anna); and grandchildren (who called her Nana) Randyl, Ryne, and Reid Sandifer; Aiden, Ty, and Lucy Claire Criddle; Elizabeth, Sophie, and Ethan Valentine. She is also survived by her brother James "Mac" McClellan (Patti) and sister-in-law Jane Collins, as well as numerous other loving family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Dorothy McClellan; sister, Scotti Vann; brother-in-law David Vann; and brother-in-law Blackie Collins. The family extends their sincere thanks to Hospice of Baton Rouge and Julie Suggs for their compassionate care of Sue. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life services at First Baptist Church, Zachary on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 12pm. Visitation will be on Monday, August 18, 5-7pm and Tuesday, 10am - 12pm.
Pallbearers will be Randy Sandifer, Ryne Sandifer, Kevin Criddle, Aiden Criddle, John Norris and Mike Wallis. Honorary pallbearers are Reid Sandifer, Ty Criddle, Ethan Valentine and David Vann.