April 13, 1988 – April 16, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Valery Ross-McElroy, beloved partner to Jeremy, devoted mother to Darcy, cherished daughter of Pat and Diana, and treasured friend to many.

Born in Toronto on April 13, 1988, Valery grew up in Prince Edward County, where she discovered a love for being in nature. After graduating from the University of Ottawa with a degree in math and biology, Valery embarked on adventures that took her from research work in Berlin, Germany, to field studies in Taiwan, and ultimately on a solo motorcycle journey across Canada to Tofino – a trip that changed the course of her life.

Falling in love with the West Coast, Valery made Vancouver her home, following in the footsteps of her beloved Aunts Ronnie and Kathy. She built a meaningful career in community development, working with organizations including the David Suzuki Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, and most recently the First Nations Health Authority, where she passionately advocated for Indigenous voices in health policy. She was completing her master’s degree in community development at the University of Victoria at the time of her passing.

Valery met Jeremy in November 2016 at a nonprofit leadership academy, and they built a life together filled with adventure, community, and deep love. She was known for her handwritten cards, her ability to make every moment feel special, and her gift for making everyone feel like the most important person in the room. A lover of sunsets, nature, and traditions, Valery believed that every day offered something worth celebrating.

Above all, Valery was a fierce advocate for connection and community. She had an extraordinary ability to see people fully, support them unconditionally, and fight for justice in a world that often felt broken. Her positive spirit wasn’t naive – it was courageously chosen, and it touched every life she encountered.

Valery’s greatest joy was becoming a mother to Darcy, to whom she gave everything so he could be here. Her love for him was transformative and absolute.

She is survived by her partner Jeremy, son Darcy, father Pat, mother Diana, and countless friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing her.

A Celebration of Life was  held on August 17th 2025. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the GoFundMe that’s been set up to support Darcy’s future, or simply taking a moment to write someone a handwritten note, something Valery would have loved.

Valery’s light continues to shine through all who knew her. She taught us that love is a verb, not a noun, and that it doesn’t end – it transforms.