Valerie J. Harris

Valerie J. Harris, 82, of Pekin, IL passed away at 2:00 PM, Sunday, June 21, 2026 at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights, IL.

Valerie was born on January 11, 1944, in Peoria to Jarvis and Bernice Alice (Vestal) Lipscomb. She married the love of her life, Scott Harris, on December 21, 1985, in Lincoln, and together they shared many cherished years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Heide Burke; and one son, David Scott “Boomer” Rowden.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband, Scott Harris of Pekin; two loving daughters, Tammy (Charles) Glass of Pekin and Ginger (Phillip) Fazin of Houston, Texas; five beloved grandchildren, Chris Elliott of Pekin, Brandon Harter of Virginia, Trista Simmons of Canton, Kayla Fandel of Texas, and Mikey Cox of Tennessee; several great-grandchildren; and one sister, Sheila Anderson of Pekin.

Valerie was a woman of deep faith and was a faithful, active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. She dedicated 27 years of service as a bailiff with the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office, where she was known for her commitment and hard work. More than anything, Valerie treasured her family and the time she spent with those she loved. She will be remembered for her strength, her faith, and the love she gave so freely to her family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM. Thursday, July 2, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with Father Michael Andrejek officiating. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 3:15 PM. Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory, followed by visitation from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. An additional visitation will be on Thursday at the church from 9:30 AM– 10:30 AM. Interment will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry or St. Joseph Building Fund.