Valerie Woodcock Memorial Donation

Valerie Frances Woodcock began teaching at St. Thomas Early Learning Center in 1970, serving as Head of School from 1988 until her retirement in 2000. Her interest and training in early childhood education began at a Quaker school in Canterbury, England. Her belief in, and advocacy for, the principles of the STELC shaped the lives of countless children, parents and teachers. Her civic activities included early education organizations, and the MSC Opera and Performing Arts Society, where she played a leading role in the development of OPAS, Jr., a program to introduce the performing arts to young audiences. She served as President of OPAS in 2000. She was a founding supporter of KAMU FM and TV, and had her own children’s story program for many years. Her support for music continued with the Brazos Valley Symphony Society where she served as a member of the board and secretary. The Brazos Art Council awarded her the “Andy” Anderson Award. In 2004, she and her daughter, Penny, established U Paint It Pottery.  An active member of St. Thomas Church, she served as Senior Warden twice. Valerie enjoyed reading, art, cooking and good food, conversation and music.  Valerie is survived by David, her husband of 60 years, their children Jon and his wife, Tracey , and their children, Ian, Caden and Kathleen; Frances and her wife, Denise Cumming; Penny and her husband, Kirk Bane; family and many treasured friends. She was the embodiment of a life well lived.