Valerie Lawson

Valerie was born February 14, 1935 in New Castle Pa. to Frank and Katherine Lawson. She attended local schools and graduated from New Castle High School. Valerie married William R. Pragacz in 1952. William was killed in a car accident in 1955 and Valerie left New Castle to live with her brother Dale R. and his wife Ann who lived in Watertown, New York.

In 1957 in Watertown she met and married Arthur Parish. That marriage ended

In divorce but they remained good friends throughout their lives. Arthur also adopted Valerie’s son William. While in Watertown, Valerie worked for St. Regis and Black Clawson Paper Companies and at Ft. Drum as the assistant to the Base Commander.

Valerie considered her time in Watertown the happiest times of her life. She loved the area, especially the 1000 Islands and the Lake Ontario region. Her home was always open to friends and family and she was the best host for many get togethers. Her home on Rutland St. was a gathering place for friends

of hers and her children. It was not unusual during summer vacation to have 4 or 5 kids camping out it the living room after a day of baseball or football in her large backyard. The evening usually ended with a trip to Art’s Jug for Pizza.

Cookouts were frequent and well attended by Archie and Valerie’s many friends. In the early 1970’s Valerie began the family migration to Florida. She would eventually settle in Tampa along with 2 of her brothers and 1 sister. Her home in Tampa would continue to be a gathering place for family and friends and especially of her daughters Kris and Jackie. She was a Gourmet Chef and Baker and made Cuisine from any ethnicity to perfection. Her Wedding Soup was the best and a favorite family recipe.

One of Valerie’s proudest moments came when she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from Rollins College in Orlando, Florida in 1985 at the age of 50. In Tampa Valerie worked for many years as the Office Manager for DRC Consulting, a company that designed and built bridges worldwide.

She also was the office manager for Dr. Rahman a noted psychiatrist well into her 70’s until Dr. Rahman’s passing when she retired.

Valerie was predeceased by her parents and three brothers Dale R., Russel J., and Donald L., and a sister Thelma. She is survived by a Sister, June Horlick, Denton, Texas, Son William R. (Diane) Parish, Orlando, Florida, Daughters Kristin(David) Turan, Syracuse N.Y.. Jacqueline (Scott) Realander Parish Tampa, Florida, Seven Grandchildren, Five Great Grandchildren. Many nephews, nieces, and

cousins.

There will be a Celebration of Valerie’s life at the home of her son William on May 28, 2023.

In lieu of flowers please send any donation in her name to Vitas Hospice

210 Lake Ave. Orlando FL 32801