Valerie Thompson

Mesquite, NV – Valerie Thompson, 83, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. She was born on May 18, 1941, in Stockton-on-Tees, England, to William Lancelot Lofthouse and Lilian Alice Ayre, where she spent her early years. 

Valerie’s life began under extraordinary circumstances, she was born in an air raid shelter during a bombing raid in World War II. At the age of 21, in 1962, she courageously moved to the United States on her own. In 1964, Valerie welcomed her son, Michael McIff, and raised him as a single mother in West Valley City, UT. On May 16, 1981, she married the love of her life, Neil Thompson. 

Valerie dedicated many years to serving her community and retired from Salt Lake County, where she worked as the director of a senior center. She was known for her vibrant personality, boundless energy, and keen intellect. Valerie had a passion for crafting and loved sharing stories with friends and family. She also had a passion for travel, enjoying many adventures around the world with her husband Neil, with their trip through the Panama Canal being the most cherished. Valerie adored her grandson, Brennan, and loved spending time with him and her son, Michael. Like her late husband, Neil, she was a devoted dog lover. After Neil’s passing in 2009, she moved from West Valley City, UT, to Mesquite, NV, where she continued to live life to the fullest. Valerie is survived by her son, Michael McIff; her grandson, Brennan McIff; and many close friends.

A celebration of Valerie’s life will be held on Saturday, November 16, at 10:00 a.m. at the Valley Presbyterian Church, 350 Falcon Ridge Pkwy, Suite 702 Mesquite, NV 89027. Valerie wished to be cremated, and her ashes, along with those of her beloved ,husband Neil, will be interred at the Murray City Cemetery in Utah.