A woman who would have brightened up the darkest of days, but today Armagh mourns the loss of one of its own.
Valerie (Val) Joyce Wilson passed away suddenly at her Kilgowney Manor home in Caledon on Thursday, January 2.
For many she was the face of Johnston’s Bakery on Scotch Street in Armagh.
A beaming smile, the friendliest of faces – she knew her customers by name and always – always – had time for a chat.
Sharing the sad – and shocking – news of her passing, Johnston’s Bakery wrote: “We are absolutely devastated to be sharing this news. Valerie (Val) was one of the best, the kindest soul who just loved the craic. You will be so missed by all your work family and the shop will never be the same 💔.”
Val, the daughter of the late George and Pearl Wilson Main Street, Clabby and much loved sister of Georgina (Stanley) Ruth (Brian) Harold, Anne (Bob) Sammy, and David (Lesley Ann).
Tributes have been pouring in for a woman who was so well thought of in Armagh and beyond.
Wendy Stewart of neighbouring Property Link, wrote: “Such devastating news to start the New Year. Valerie was one of the kindest ladies . All of us neighbours on Scotch Street will sorely miss her. Johnston sure will not be the same. Sincere condolences to all her family and friends. Valerie we will miss you 💔.”
Another woman posted: “So saddened to hear this news. Val will be sorely missed by everyone connected to Johnston’s bakery. A kind soul with time for everyone. My heart goes out to all her friends & family.”
One person wrote: “So sorry to hear this sad news. Valerie was such a lovely person. Always time for a quick chat in town. So kind and thoughtful always asking about everyone. In the bakery she always brightened the day and nothing was ever a bother. A joy to have known Valerie. Immeasurable loss. Thinking especially of the family x.”
Another added: “So, so sad to hear this news, we only knew Valerie from the bakery, she always had a big smile for customers and was just so so friendly and all round lovely lady. Thinking of her family, friends and the staff at Johnston’s who will miss her terribly 💔.”
And from everyone at Armagh I, we are deeply sorry to hear of Val’s passing – she was a friend to us all here in the office. We will miss the craic on a daily basis. Our thoughts are to her family, friends and colleagues at this really difficult time.
Funeral arrangements to follow. All enquires to Mr Ian McCutcheon & Son, Funeral Directors, Clabby, Fivemiletown 028895 21768. Lovingly remembered by her family and all the family circle.
