Valerie Jo Martin

After bringing so much love, joy and happiness to this world, Valerie Jo Martin left us on October 28, 2017. Born in Huntington, WV on October 17, 1957, she was the daughter of Joseph Martin and Willa and Cecil McComes, sister to Guy Martin (Barbara), Randy McComas and Sherry Bourgeois (John) and wife to Tim Arnold.  She would say her greatest accomplishments were her daughter Lindsay Leigh Cottrell and son Justin Brest (Theresa). Her greatest love was reserved for her grandchildren, Kellan and Abigail Brest. All who knew Val knew how much she loved family. Her many family, friends, coworkers and acquaintances felt her love of life and compassion for others over her 60 years.
Val lived between Huntington and Baltimore, MD throughout her childhood making Baltimore home for over 30 years while accumulating a growing number of friends and loved ones.
After raising her kids, Val retired in 2007 from the county school system in Baltimore, MD in administration for emotionally and physically affected children.  She married Tim on July 7, 2007, and moved to Baltimore, OH to start a new and loving chapter in her life. The bond between Tim & Val was ever present and those who knew them as a couple knew the treasured love they shared. 
She felt very blessed to have grandbabies to help raise the last 5 years. She was happiest during this time being their Memaw, planning new experiences and ensuring they knew how much she loved them.
Most recently she worked as a pharmacy technician for Giant Eagle in her desire to continue doing for others.
This past year started with surgery in February and after battling an extended illness, she passed from sepsis. We cannot express how much gratitude we have for the Drs and nurses in SICU and SIMCU at Mt Carmel East, 2nd floor. They rock! You helped us fight the good fight and Val was the ultimate fighter.
Family and friends may visit 1-3:00 and 5-7:00 pm on Thursday, November 2 at the Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Home & Crematory, 550 Hill Rd. N., Pickerington, OH 43147 where a funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm.
Special mention must be made to Dr. Jason Keith, her surgeon and friend who never gave up.
We will never forget Val's beautiful smile, her contagious laughter and her amazingly positive attitude.  We suggest in remembrance of Valerie you take time to hug your kids, spread good in the world and find a way to make a positive difference in your friends and family's life. La Familia!!

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