Valerie Kay Weber (nee DeSantis) of Arnold, MD passed away on March 5, 2025 at the age of 69. Valerie was born on July 25, 1955 near New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to parents Angelo and Renza DeSantis (nee Durbani). She had two older sisters, Anna (deceased 2022) and Mary (deceased 2019). Valerie grew up playing at her grandparents' farm and was called as a child by the nickname "Cookie." Her family moved into town after her parents divorced. She went to Red Bank Valley High School where she played basketball. After high school, she followed her sister Anna to State College and began work as a secretary. When Anna married and moved to Annapolis Maryland, Valerie decided to follow her again. It was there that she met her future husband, George Weber. It was also where she began her lifelong career at Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works, working her way up from a secretary to a manager in the division of Customer Relations and later Highways and Transportation. She and George wed in August 1984, and in total the two spent 47 years together, 41 of them married.

Valerie led a full life. She was a social butterfly and enjoyed entertaining her neighbors, friends, and family. She loved to party, whether it be at the American Legion or the Broadneck Elks, where she served on the board. She loved singing and karaoke. She especially loved dancing to her favorite band, Oracle. From time to time, the band would invite her on the stage to sing her favorite song, "Born to Be Wild." Valerie had many hobbies, including collecting (coins, jewelry, and anything "limited edition"), decorating, playing cards, playing slots at the casino, riding Harleys with her husband, watching NASCAR, and cheering on her beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. She was a perfectionist which shone through in her decorating skills, immaculate house, and her work. Her family could always count on her delicious cookie trays during the holidays and her special order cakes for all birthdays. In 2007 she and George bought land in South Dakota and moved to Deadwood for a few years, but ended up returning to Maryland much to the delight of her family here. Valerie was very close to her sister Anna, often playing cards together and taking frequent trips to Vegas and the Borgata in Atlantic City. She was an amazing aunt to her three nieces, Angela, Carrie, and Danielle with whom she was very giving and kind. She will always be remembered for her energy, ardor, generosity, and friendship, and will be missed by many.

In lieu of a formal funeral, Valerie wished for her family to hold a Celebration of Life. It will be held at the Broadneck Elks on Sunday, April 27th with more details to follow.