Susan A. Valentine        “loving sister and aunt”

GENESEE, PA—Susan A. Valentine, of Genesee, longtime educator, and beloved sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025, in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport, after her battle with cancer.

Born on August 26, 1950 in Reading, PA, she was a daughter of John F. and Pauline M. Blatt Valentine. 

A 1972 graduate of Clarion University, Miss Valentine earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary English Education and received her Master’s Degree in Education and Certification in Administration from St. Bonaventure University in 1990.  Miss Valentine spent 40 years as an educator in the Northern Potter School District, 21 years teaching, and 19 years as Principal.

During her tenure at Northern Potter, Miss Valentine advocated for her students and their parents even when faced with adversity.  She was involved with the yearbook, newspaper, Student Council, and various plays.  She was also the longtime bookkeeper for the boys’ basketball team and the first person to coach volleyball in the district.  Miss Valentine was also on the committee for the Seneca Highlands Vocational Technical School and the women’s sports representative for District IX PIAA for 25 years.  The state also recognized Miss Valentine and her team for their outstanding excellence in the district’s Student Assistance Program and the district’s exemplary inclusive practices.

Susan was also involved in various Potter County organizations, including the Advisory Board for Human Services and the Child Death Review Committee.  She was also vice chair for the Northern Tier Children’s Home.  During her retirement, she served as the treasurer of the Ellisburg Community Club, volunteered her culinary skills for the LEEK Wounded Warriors Preserve, and was currently President of Volunteers That Care, an organization that supports cancer patients.

Susan thoroughly enjoyed reading, traveling with her friends and family, and most of all, spoiling her nieces and nephews.

Susan is survived by her brother, Ted Valentine of Genesee; her sister, Lori Clifford and nephew, Brandon Clifford of Carlisle; nephew, John (Allison) Valentine and their children, Lola and Theo; niece, Katie Valentine (Dave) Faulkner and their children, Ayla and Easton; niece, Tracy Valentine; all of Wellsville, NY.

Susan was predeceased by her parents; and her brother-in-law, James B. Clifford III.

Family and friends may call from 1pm to 3pm on Friday, January 31, 2025, at the Ellisburg Union Wesleyan Church, 2005 Ellisburg Road, Genesee, PA.  Pastor Roy Ward and Pastor Bob Walters, will conduct private funeral services for the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Volunteers That Care, PO Box 750, Coudersport, PA 16915 or to the LEEK Preserve, 494 SR 244 E, Oswayo, PA 16915.

Miss Valentine entrusted her care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Miss Valentine, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.