Obituary of Valerie Wilkes

Valerie Jean Rankin was born in Monroe, Michigan on February 28, 1957. She was the daughter of George Rankin and Helen (Moyer) Rankin. Valerie attended Monroe Public Schools. She married Gregory Wilkes. Valerie was a homemaker who took her responsibility very seriously. She was blessed with the birth of three wonderful daughters: Leslie Wilkes, Julie Cochran, and Lisa Wilkes all who currently reside in Monroe. She enjoyed the company of her family including her brother: George Rankin of Warren, Michigan and her sister: Cheryl Manahan of Mooresville, Indiana. Valerie was most fond, however, of the time she was able to spend with her eleven beloved grandchildren: Gabrielle, Isaiah, Makeim, Mariah, Mykal, Miyah, Tressa, Corrinne, Machalla, Anthony, and Kevin. Valerie was a fun loving; free spirit with a remarkable sense of humor. She had a knack for creating crafts, and she received many hours of enjoyment creating beautiful sun-catchers that were displayed in her window, painting, and also making pot-holders. Valerie was devoted to her Savior and was a member of the True Gospel Missionary Baptist Church in Monroe. Valerie Jean Wilkes age 52, passed away on Friday, April 3, 2009 at Mercy Memorial Nursing Center. Her loving family was by her side. Valerie had been under the care of Heartland Hospice and Homecare. Her passing was preceded by her father on October 4, 1980 and her mother on April18, 1989. Friends may gather from 5:00pm until 8:00pm, Sunday, April 5, 2009 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life will take place at 1:00pm on Monday, April 6, 2009 at Merkle Funeral Service. The Rev. Danny Fultz pastor of True Gospel Missionary Baptist Church will officiate. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial. In lieu of flowers memorial donations are suggested to the Wilkes family. For those desiring; online words of inspiration and comfort may be made by visiting www.merklefuneralservice.com and the selecting the Life Stories page.