Obituary of Valrie V Beckford

Valrie V. Beckford affectionately known to family and friends as “Joy” was promoted to glory at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital on May 17th at 11:39pm with family at her bedside. Valrie was born in Montego Bay, Jamaica on April 10, 1953 to the parents of Joseph (now deceased) and Fedelia Beckford.

Valrie migrated to the United States on May 14, 1970 with her brother Sydney. She received her formal education and graduated from the Jeremiah E. Burke High School (formally all girls) and The Boston Business school with her degree. One of her greatest accomplishments is being a lifelong Salvationist and playing in brass band alongside her mother, brother, daughter and niece for many years. One of her favorite pieces to play was “O Boundless Salvation” played on her instrument of choice the Euphonium. She also participated in the Songsters Brigade and is known for being a fine solo vocalist.

Valrie was employed at Shawmut Bank on Devonshire Street in Downtown Boston for 12 years, until she changed her career and direction and subsequently pursued a career in the medical field, where she was currently employed as a patient care observer at the Mass General Hospital for 17 years. This job made an impact on her personally because she was able to work closely with patients and their families. As she approached retirement, she enjoyed activities while attending the senior’s program at the Kroc Center with her mother, until her untimely passing.

Valrie will forever be remembered for her gentle and warm personality. She had a zest for life and lived it with dignity always displaying her Christianity to everyone that she encountered. Heaven’s Gates has once again re-open to receive a true angel and servant of God.

Valrie is survived by her mother, Fedelia; daughter, Malene; grandson Jamal; Brother, Sydney, nieces Linci and Kia-Marie, nephew Jaysyn, Grandnephew, Kirk Jr. and son in law Darren and a host of other loving relatives and friends.