Biography: Valerie D. Green courageously entered the threshold of eternal life on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. She will forever be celebrated as a compassionate woman who was a loving model of Christian living anchored in the Lord. We smile knowing she is reunited with her forever partner and amazing soul mate, Mark L. Green.
God gifted the world with this beautiful queen on October 31, 1955 in New York to the late Ida E. Watkins-Coleman and Clarence Coleman. New York City would be where Valerie established a legacy of service to her family, community and church.
Valerie and Mark were childhood sweethearts, however while attending Taft High School, Valerie’s tender heart beautifully united her twin flame, Mark. Officially, these two would go on to epitomize the definition of “Black Love” and display excellence in every aspect for more than fifty years. Hand in hand she and her kindred spirit would create sincere, precious memories, growing together in deep respect and joy.
Valerie and her husband made the life changing decision to join Canaan Baptist Church of Christ in 1992 after an initial invitation to attend Sunday service. Soon after Valerie began lending her talents to the church school, Voices of Canaan and the Sanctuary choir. In addition to her wonderful ability to serve the church through music, she was committed to advocating for children under the Youth Ministry, during Sunday service, church outings and events.
Both Valerie and Mark retired from the NYC Department of Education after dedicated service at DeWitt Clinton High School. Although part of a most exclusive packaged deal, in her own right, Valerie possessed a distinct character. Valerie was free with her compassion. With lots of love to give beyond her own family, she joyfully extended kindness to everyone without judgement. Protecting and nurturing, she would recognize a need and work to address it whether it be caring for children, generously lending a supportive ear, providing sound advice or easing your heart with a smile. Her heart and mind were intune, tethered to God’s word and word made reality for us to witness.
In the presence of God, Valerie is reunited in heaven with her husband, greeted by her parents and joined by siblings, Dennis Coleman, Gary Coleman and Sheila Lewis. She is survived by her three sisters: Constance Watkins, Carmen Williams and Betty Coleman and two brothers, Ronald Watkins and Anthony Coleman. Her four daughters- Shanequa Green, Shaundira Green-Franklin, Monique Coleman and Jasmine Coleman and three sons, Hakim Green, Omar Coleman and Malik Coleman will work to continue her phenomenal legacy. A host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, cousins, other relatives, and friends will celebrate her yet miss Valerie dearly. May she rest in peace in the arms of Jesus.