Obituary
Guest Book
Ms. Valerie Jean McAlister was born on August 23, 1995, in Akron, Ohio, the eldest child of Ruben and Johnnie McAlister. She peacefully departed this life on October 22, 2025, at the age of 70.
A lifelong resident of Akron, Valerie was deeply rooted in her community. She was a devoted member of both the Universal Temple of Truth and the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Throughout her career, she worked at Locust Building (Children's Hospital) and later dedicated over 20 years of service to Krispy Kreme before retiring.
Valerie will be remembered as a loving mother, devoted daughter, and cherished friend. She found joy in spending time with her family and friends, attending community events, shopping, decorating, and sharing words of wisdom with those who sought her guidance. Her curious and thoughtful nature inspired her to explore the world around her with an open mind and an eager heart.
Valerie leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Ronnelle (Keri) McAlister, Robert (April) McAlister, Isaac McAlister, Henry McAlister, and Frederick (Lorraine) McAlister; her brother, Ruben (Diane) McAlister; her sisters Lucille, Robin, Susan and Sheryl McAlister, Mary Johnson and Leslie (Timothy) Daniels; her aunt, Jamie Williams; special family friend, Frederick Stieff; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Jospehine McAlister; her brother, Michael McAlister.
Family and friends are invited to visit at City of Joy, 610 W Exchange St. Akron, OH 44302 on Friday, November 7, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until the memorial service that begins at 12:00 p.m. with Bishop Mayceo Smith II officiating and Bishop Kenny Paramore eulogizing. To leave a special message for Valerie's family, please visit the guest book below.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more