VALERIE ANNE QUENNEVILLE MULLIN

MONKTON — On Aug. 16, 2024, Valerie Anne Quenneville Mullin lost her courageous battle to ovarian cancer. Valerie, born Jan. 9, 1959, at Mary Fletcher Hospital in Burlington, Vt., entered the world quickly and with a spirited determination that would define her life.

The daughter of Nancy Sabin and adopted by Nancy’s husband, Robert Quenneville, at the age of two, Valerie spent her early years in West Berlin, Germany. Valerie’s father served in the Air Force and was thought to be eavesdropping on Russian communications, as his work was cloaked in secrecy. The family later moved to Key West, Florida, but Vermont would always be her true home.

Valerie returned to Burlington from Key West in the first grade. Thanks to her family and early travels, she was already speaking English, Spanish and German. Valerie attended H.O. Wheeler, Lawrence Barnes, and Champlain schools. She continued her education at Burlington High School until her senior year, forging lifelong friendships with Sherry and Bonnie Lafrance. She graduated from Mount Abraham Union High School, which her sons would later attend.

Valerie’s early life was characterized by an unwavering work ethic. Even as a young girl she showed remarkable drive, whether it was selling the most Girl Scout cookies in the state of Vermont for two consecutive years, or balancing multiple jobs like babysitting and a paper route. She later worked at Vantage Press, clocking in 100-hour weeks at $1 an hour. This early determination to succeed, coupled with a deep sense of purpose, set the foundation for her life dedicated to family, community and empowerment of others.

After graduating high school in 1978, Valerie married Chris Coombs and relocated to Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina. After four years on base, they moved back to the Sherman Family Farm in New Haven, Vt.

Valerie dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mom while also taking on factory jobs, including working at Harbor Industries. Prior to Valerie and Chris’s separation, in 1980 they were blessed with their first son, Derek, and in 1982, their second son, Ryan.

A new chapter in Valerie’s life began in 1981 when she co-founded Needleworks Craft Supplies with her mother, Nancy. The business originated at a five-generation family property, the McNeil Homestead, in Charlotte, Vt. It expanded into a successful 30-year venture, with multiple additional locations throughout Vermont and New York. It was during this time that Valerie’s entrepreneurial spirit shined, alongside the strong bond she shared with her mother.

Valerie’s life took another meaningful turn when she met the love of her life, Rob Mullin, in 1996 at a University of Vermont hockey game in Gutterson Fieldhouse. Their romance blossomed, and in March of 1997 during a Burlington Fire Department fundraiser at the same hockey arena where they met, Rob proposed with friends and family in the crowd. Valerie’s son Ryan helped Rob pick the engagement ring, making it a true family affair. In 1999, at the impressive age of 40, Valerie had her third son, Bryce. Valerie and Rob recently celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary on July 19, 2024.

Beyond love of family, Valerie’s purpose extended to empowering other women and giving back to her community. Through the mentorship of Patti Sabin, Valerie became deeply involved in Mary Kay Cosmetics, where she rose to the top 3% of Sales Directors in the country. Valerie’s dedication earned her five free cars, including the iconic pink Cadillac, along with trips, prizes, and the joy of inspiring women along the way.

Valerie always loved animals, and that love grew into a passion when she founded Winnie’s Legacy Canine Rescue, a non-profit named in honor of her beloved dog, Winnie. Over the years, Winnie’s Legacy saved more than 3,500 dogs from southern states, finding them adopted fur-ever homes. Valerie now rests in heaven, taking care of all the puppies she could not save. Valerie’s legacy continues through the stewardship of her dedicated volunteers.

Valerie’s commitment to helping others was also evident with her financial acumen. Introduced to investing by her Great Uncle Wallace, Valerie took the lessons she learned and taught herself about prudent investing. This knowledge not only benefited her family but also allowed Valerie to share wisdom with others, ensuring they, too, could make informed financial decisions.

A devoted mother, Valerie instilled strong academics in her children with all three graduating college. She also taught self-confidence, independence and resilience to her children. She always made sure they were prepared for life’s challenges and was their biggest cheerleader, providing guidance and celebrating their achievements. Valerie’s involvement in their lives was unwavering, whether it was driving across the northeast to support Derek’s wrestling, traveling to New York City for Ryan’s acting auditions, or driving cross-country multiple times for Bryce’s young adult adventures. Valerie always made time for her family, no matter how busy life became.

Valerie’s impact on those around her was profound, especially through her work with Mary Kay, her dog rescue and volunteer opportunities. Valerie empowered many women, giving them support to succeed and stand up for themselves. Her strong will, caring nature, and loyalty to family and friends will be treasured by all who knew her.

Valerie shared a life rich with love, purpose and a deep commitment to helping those in need. She cherished her family and is survived by her husband, Rob Mullin; her children, Derek and Chelsea Coombs and their children, Henry and Holden, Ryan Coombs, and Bryce Mullin. She is also survived by her siblings Nina, Victor and Neil. Predeceased by her parents, Nancy Sabin and Robert Quenneville, Valerie leaves behind a legacy of strength, independence, and compassion.

Valerie would like to extend her heartfelt thanks and appreciation to her husband Rob, sister Nina and dear friends, Sherry LaFrance and Theresa Carter for their dedicated love and care, particularly during her cancer battle. Valerie will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, purpose, and empowerment of others will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A wake will be held Friday Aug. 23, from 4-7 p.m., at Ready Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington, Vt. Funeral service will be held Saturday, Aug. 24, at noon, at the North Ferrisburgh United Methodist Church, 227 Old Hollow Rd., North Ferrisburgh, Vt., with burial immediately following at Charlotte Congregational Church 403 Church Hill Rd., Charlotte Vt., with reception to follow at the rectory

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Winnie’s Legacy Canine Rescue, 91 Dart Hill Rd., North Ferrisburgh, Vt., 05473

Arrangements are in the care of the Ready Funeral And Cremation Services. To send online condolences please visit www.readyfuneral.com.◊