Valerie Jean Stearns, 72, of North Platte, passed away April 22, 2022 at home, after a long battle with cancer.  She was born on January 14, 1950 to Virgil and Delcie (Plunkett) Sanders in Ogallala.

Valerie grew up in Ogallala and worked as a roller-skating waitress at A&W restaurant.  She married Terry Stearns on June 16, 1972 in Sterling, CO.  The couple made their home in Ogallala where they worked for American Suzuki for many years.  Later in life Valerie had an in-home day care.  They moved to Arizona in 1999 and returned to North Platte in 2006 where Valerie worked for Walmart as an overnight cashier.

Valerie was a very sweet and kind person, always thinking of others before herself.  Everyone that knew her loved her.  She was a second mom to many children.  Valerie loved everything Elvis.  She enjoyed the lake and sitting in the sun.  Valerie also enjoyed rides in the country and the Nebraskaland Days parade.

Survivors include husband, Terry of North Platte; children, Scott (Renae) Stearns of Pocatello, ID, Jim Stearns of Logansport, IN, Travis (fiancée-Laura) Stearns of North Platte; grandchildren, Teashina (Cody) Fowers of Blackfoot, ID, Michael McBride of Ogallala, Shawn McBride of North Platte, Braylon McBride of North Platte, Gavin Stearns of Logansport, IN; great grandchildren, Stetson, Preslee, Olivia; several other family members and many friends.

Memorials are suggested in her name.  Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com .

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Monday, May 2, 2022 at Fort McPherson National Cemetery with Chaplain Brenda Lee officiating.  Book signing will be held 4:00-6:00 P.M., Saturday, April 30, 2022 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.  A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.