DAVIDGE, Valerie Margaret - February 18, 1944 – May 16, 2021
It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Valerie, peacefully in her home, on May 16, 2021, after a brief but hard battle with kidney failure.
Valerie found rest with her adoring husband of 55 years, Keith, by her side.
She will be greatly missed by her daughter Ellen Richards (Drew) and son Piers (Kim).
Cherished grandmother to William, James, Penny, Emily, and Sarah.
Valerie was born in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England, to Jim and Peggy Ayley, where Peggy had been evacuated to avoid the blitz, before living her early life in Eastleigh Hampshire.
Valerie attended Totton Grammar School from age 11 until 16, from which she held wonderful memories. Despite perfect academic results, Valerie was not given the chance of a university education.
Leaving school, she entered municipal and county government, rising rapidly with promotions until motherhood, and subsequently immigrating to Canada with Keith, Ellen, Piers, and a Siamese cat, became her priority.
During this whole period from her teens, Valerie was also involved in her love of cycling and cycling racing.She was a nationally qualified official and committee member, also being the chair of the Ontario Racing Committee, earning herself the affectionate title of the "Iron Lady of Canadian Cycling". She was instrumental in the sport and recreation we see today.
Apart from all her endeavors, she considered her happiest achievement, after several years of study, graduating from the University of Waterloo with a degree in Religious Studies at the age of 65.
This was something she had been unable to do in her youth and something that gave her family immense pride.
Due to the current situation and pandemic restrictions, a private family Funeral Service will take place .
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