Valerie James Buford

Her Labor, Her Love, Her Legacy

Valerie James Buford

Valerie James Buford, born April 10, 1970, was called home by God on September 26, 2025,

at the age of 55 years old.

Affectionately known as Val, she was truly one of a kind, full of life, energy, and a spunky spirit

that could light up any room. Val had a quick wit, a radiant smile, and a personality that drew

people in. She carried herself with confidence and humor, and she had a way of turning even

ordinary moments into something unforgettable.

Val was deeply devoted to her family and friends, but she also lived life on her own terms -

bold, unapologetic, and full of love. Whether she was sharing laughter, offering a shoulder to

lean on, or reminding everyone to keep the faith, she left people better than she found them.

Val's dedication was unmatched. No matter how long the day or how tired she might have been,

she always showed up for the people she loved. Whether she had just finished a shift or was still

in her work clothes, you would never know the weight she carried because she carried it with

grace. She gave her time, her presence, and her love without hesitation, proving that true strength

is found in showing up, even when it isn't easy.

Her sudden passing has left a deep ache in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew

her. Yet we take comfort in remembering her not with sadness, but with joy; the joy she so freely

gave, the laughter she inspired, and the countless memories she created.

Valerie was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Alice "Shirley" James; her father, Joseph

Wayne James; maternal grandparents, Percy "Clinice" Hughes, Sr., and Carrie Snipes; one aunt,

Floretta Harris; and two uncles, Kenny and Boyse Hughes.

She leaves behind a beautiful legacy with her family who will forever cherish her: her beloved

sons, Lawrence "Nae" Buford III and Nicholas Deandre Buford; their father, her high school

sweetheart, forever friend and co-parent, Lawrence "Toby" Buford II; 2 grandsons, Ryan

Antonio Holmes and Horacio Thomas; 2 sisters, Bridget Katina (Donald) Robinson and Nicole

Latrice (Micheal) Mosley; 4 nieces, Isis (Keith) Stutts, Tabitha Symone Robinson, Katelyn Sha-

Micheal Mosley, and Cyan Maree Robinson; 1 nephew, Micheal Lashun Mosley Jr.; her aunt,

Hope E. Golston, and her uncle, Percy (Shanavia) Hughes Jr; and a host of loving relatives and

dear friends who were blessed to have known her.

Though Valerie's earthly journey has ended, her spirit lives on in every smile she inspired, every

laugh she sparked, and every life she touched. She will forever be remembered as vibrant,

fearless, loving, and uniquely Val.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race; I have kept the faith." – 2 Timothy 4:7