Valerie I (Issod) Matthew

Valerie Issod Matthew passed away in Southampton MA on October 14, 2024. Born June 4, 1974 on “The Farm” commune in Summertown TN, Valerie grew up in Medford NJ, playing in the backyard and at her parents’ store, Stoveworks. She distinguished herself at Shawnee HS through her edgy style and poetry awards. After graduating from Stockton College, she taught English in South Jersey.

She earned a graduate degree in Deaf Education at Smith College after a partial hearing loss associated with NF2. Her time teaching at the renowned Clarke School in Northampton was among the happiest in her life, and it was when she met the love of her life. Valerie was known for her love of reading and writing, and celebrating life’s special occasions.

Valerie is survived by her husband, Thomas B. Matthew, and their daughter, Isabella Grace Matthew; her parents, Martha Gould Issod and Craig S. Issod; and her siblings, Andrea Issod (John Fricke), nephew Dean Fricke, David Issod (Kara McElwain), and nephews Elijah Issod and William Issod.

Memorial service will be held at Mitchell Funeral Home, 15 Park St., Easthampton, MA. on October 18, 2024, at 11 am. Donations in her honor may be made to NF2 BioSolutions https://nf2biosolutions.org/donate/

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