Valerie Yvonne DeBies

In loving memory of Valerie Yvonne DeBies, age 67, who passed away March 14, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah, after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Valerie was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on October 28, 1958, to Frederick R. DeBies Sr. and Elizabeth Jennings Cameron. She graduated from Granger High School in 1977 and from Utah Technical College (now SLCC) in Fashion Design in 1980. Valerie was a proud veteran of the United States Army and received an honorable discharge. She was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church and attended in her powered wheelchair whenever her health would allow.

Valerie was very strong in dealing with her health issues. She was very independent and always wanted to do everything on her own. She was an excellent cook (via her mother and grandmother) and a great seamstress. She often made clothes for herself and her family. Valerie also loved to shop. She would often head to the mall with her credit card in hand and return with multiple bags.

Valerie had a beautiful smile that lightened the room. She would often give gifts to others for no apparent reason but to show her love. She was very much loved by all who knew her and will be highly missed by her family and friends.

Valerie was survived by her Father; Mother; daughter, Akilah Mandisa Davis; granddaughter, Zariah Nichole Wiley; brother, Stephen R. DeBies; all of Salt Lake City, Utah; sister, Stephanie L. Jackson (Gary), of Spain; and numerous nephews, nieces, uncles, aunts, and best friend, Tonia B. Davis.

Valerie was preceded in death by her brother, Frederick 'Rudy' DeBies (2001), and grandparents Wash & Elnora Jennings, and John & Ella Louise DeBies.

The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and kindness via cards, phone calls, and in-person. A special thanks to Minister Tate, who was there to comfort the family in need. The family would also like to thank the VA's William Christofferson Nursing Home and Memorial Mortuary and Cemetery for their loving care. -The DeBies family-

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 27, 2026, at 11:00 am at Calvary Baptist Church, 1090 S. State Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84111. Viewing will be 1 hour prior to the service at the church and the night before from 5 pm-8 pm at Memorial Mortuary and Cemetery, 6500 S. Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah. Interment will also be at Memorial Mortuary. Pastor Merrill of True Vine Baptist Church in Kaysville, Utah, will be officiating. Pastor Emeritus France A. Davis, Valerie's lifelong pastor, and Pastor O.T. Moses both will speak.