Valera Laveda Philbrick

A Memorial Services for Valera (Val) Philbrick, age 97 of Norfolk, NE formerly of O'Neill, NE will be 10:30 am Saturday, November 23, 2024 at First United Methodist Church in O'Neill. Inurnment will follow in the O'Neill Cemetery. Valera passed away on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at the Norfolk Veteran's Home in Norfolk, NE. Her life was a pleasant journey as she relived her stories in her final days and readied herself for eternal peace. In lieu of flowers, Val's family asks that you donate to a charity of choice.
Val started life in the Stuart community and taught in one-room rural schoolhouses. Her transportation was by horse, which she reverently spoke about, collecting horse memorabilia throughout her life. She married Dwayne Philbrick, a classmate who returned from the Navy. They spent over 60 years in O'Neill, Nebraska where she was active in various organizations, the 4-H and Extension Service, Eden Rebekah Lodge over 50 years, and the Methodist women; always serving others, including the care of son Dan after a debilitating accident.
Her greatest joy was music and gifting those musical abilities to all. From the days of her father playing in barn dances and learning to play by ear on the piano, trombone in high school, and later the accordion, there was always a song in her heart. She shared through choir, kitchen band, and various entertainment venues. She played the keyboard for the Veterans Chapel and would break into a tune at any given moment.
She is survived by her daughters, Laveda McDonald (Tim) and Diane Carkhuff; three grandchildren, Benn, Laraine, and Troy, along with their families; great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
She is predeceased by her parents, Charles and Lottie Lofquest; her husband, Dwayne; her siblings, Bud and Alma; her son, Daniel.
The family would like to extend our thanks to the St. Croix Hospice team and the Veterans Home for her care and family support.