Valerie Unger of Rockford, Illinois, departed this earthly life on August 2, 2026. She was born on October 14, 1952, in Rockford, Illinois, to Laverne Ivy-James and Vernon White.

Valerie was a loving woman who cherished her family and had a deep love for the Lord. She was a member of Second Christian Church, where she formerly served in the choir. Valerie attended West High School and was employed as a cook with Life Scape Community Services for 10 years before retiring.

Valerie enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. She loved to joke, laugh and had a special fondness for watching her favorite soap operas, game shows, and basketball. Her warm spirit, sense of humor, and loving presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Valerie leaves to cherish many loving memories two daughters Sharetha “Shay” Ivy and Brandi Unger; son Willie Unger; three loving grand daughters, Ciaria Woodard, Alexis King, and Marlena King; great grand daughter, Maliyah; great grand dog, Diamond; her sisters, Diane (Paul) Dixon, Jeweline Moss, and Jackie (Freddie) Poole; her brother, Dale (Shay) Brown; former husband, Willie “Ben” Unger; longtime best friends, Kathy Simpson, Virginia Roberson, and Linda Hill; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Laverne Ivy-James and Vernon White; sisters, Estelle Horton, Lucille Williams, and Francis Moss and brother, Mike Hill.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 14, 2026 at Second Christian Church 950 N. Rockton Ave. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.