Valeria K. Eccles Blue was born on April 13, 1944 in Norfolk, Virginia to the late Velner Miller Sprinkle and George Eccles. Affectionately known as “Ouchie” and “MeeMaw,” Valeria attended Carver High School where she was the president of her freshman class, a majorette, a cheerleader, and valedictorian. Valeria continued her education at Russell’s Business School in Winston-Salem before beginning a career in retail, working at Kay Jewelers, Thalhimers, and the Stouffer Hotel. She later worked at Winston-Salem State University in the Hauser Student Union and a local domestic violence shelter.

Valeria was a member of St. James United Methodist Church where she served as a lay delegate to the Western North Carolina Annual Conference and a member of the United Methodist Women now known as the Women of Faith.

Valeria had a special way of making life an adventure. She taught, challenged, entertained, loved, and created memories that will remain in our hearts for the rest of our lives. Her presence was unforgettable, and her absence leaves a space that can never truly be filled.

Valeria will be fondly remembered and cherished by her seven children, Arthur Blue, Jr. (Cherie), Bryan Blue, Sr. (Virginia), Tamerria Chatman (Reginald), Todd Blue (Cheretta), Barry Blue, Sr. (Jannet), April Brogdon (Gregory), and James Eccles; five siblings, George Eccles, Verlie McNeill, Vera Richardson (Alexander), Vernard Sprinkle (Sharon), and Vickie Morrison; 20 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Valeria will be remembered with pride, gratitude, laughter, and love. Her life, wisdom, joy, and countless memories will continue to live on in the hearts of those whom she adored.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Friday, September 25, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00noon Saturday, September 26, 2026 at St. James United Methodist Church, Rural Hall, NC. The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12:00noon on Saturday at the Church.