In Memory of Valerie Ann Gittens-Colder

Our mother, Valerie (Val) Ann Jennie Gittens-Colder, RN, a beacon of love, faith, and compassion, lived a life as inspiring as it was impactful. She peacefully passed away on February 9, 2026, surrounded by her children Keith and Janesha Colder, after a near 4 year battle with Alzheimer’s.

Valerie had a rewarding career in the medical field that spanned several decades. Where is worked as a medical and cardiology technician from 1969 -1980. In 1981after becoming a registered nurse, she dedicated her skills and compassion to Methodist Hospital—now New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital—where she faithfully served patients until her retirement in 2013.

Beyond her professional life, Valerie found joy in life’s simple pleasures: spending time with family, traveling, gardening, going to the movies, crocheting, reading, and writing. She had a deep love for music and rarely heard a melody without moving to it in dance—a reflection of the joy she carried within.

Valerie was also a devoted woman of faith and a deeply committed member of All Saints’ Episcopal Church in Park Slope, Brooklyn for over 50 years.

She was a woman of extraordinary character—known for her loving and forgiving heart, her unwavering faith, and her boundless love for family and friends. Valerie was also a mother figure to many and believed she was placed on this earth to help others, a mission she fulfilled with grace and kindness. Her love, strength, and beautiful spirit will continue to live on in the many lives she touched.

In her memory, we invite those who wish to honor Valerie’s legacy to support efforts in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Supporting this cause would mean so much to our family and to the countless families facing this relentless illness every day. Our hope is that one day, in our lifetime, we will see a world without Alzheimer’s.