Valarie Jones
East Alton | Save
Valarie Lynn (Gibbs) Jones, 55, of East Alton, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Christian Northeast Hospital.
Born on May 6, 1971, Valarie was the beloved daughter of Charlene Gibbs, who preceded her in death. Valarie lived a life centered on family, friendship, and caring for others. Her warmth, sense of humor, and kind heart touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Valarie was a devoted mother to her six children: Jordan (Rex) Gibbs of California, Brittany (Lionell Sr.) Tompkins of East Alton, Chakia (Zach) Wallace of Godfrey, Bryann Gibbs of Alton, Cierra Gibbs of St. Louis, and Whitney (Gibbs) Adams of California. She was a proud and loving grandmother, affectionately known as “Bobby” by her grandchildren: Lionell Jr. and Amiri Tompkins; Gracie and Bronx Wallace; Aubrey and Jamurkus (Mark) Mike; and Sophia and Kodi Chappell.
She is also survived by her brothers, Robert J. Dickman of Georgia and Mark (Marcia) Dickman of Alton; her special friend, Tony Jones; numerous nieces and nephews; and many treasured friends whose lives were enriched by her presence.
In addition to her mother, Valarie was preceded in death by her sister, Trieste (LaRue) Robins of Wood River.
Valarie worked at East Alton Middle School, where she was loved and respected by students and staff alike. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—spending time with family, fishing, sitting in the sunshine, and preparing delicious meals for those she loved. Her welcoming spirit, infectious laughter, and unique way of greeting people made everyone feel special.
Though her passing leaves a tremendous void, her love, strength, and countless memories will continue to live on through her family and all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the Owl’s Club, 227 Blair Ave, Alton, Illinois. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, tell stories, and celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who was taken too soon but whose impact will never be forgotten.
