Valerie Anne Matthews, a beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and accomplished architect, passed away on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at her home in Charlottesville, Virginia, at the age of 89. Her passing marks the end of a life full of contributions, perseverance, and quiet grace, but her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Born on May 11, 1935, in Potchefstroom, South Africa, Valerie, known as Val to those closest to her, was the daughter of Rupert Borchers, a geologist, and Muriel Borchers (née Ward), an artist. She was raised in an environment where curiosity, exploration, and creativity were paramount, qualities that would shape her into the remarkable woman she became.
Val’s educational journey began early, and her childhood was marked by her time at Roedean School in Johannesburg, where she started attending at the age of five. By eight years old, Val boarded at the school, an experience that she later reflected on as formative in her development. The rigors of boarding school instilled in her a love for reading and made her an early riser, qualities that would persist throughout her life. Val’s academic journey continued at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, where she graduated with a degree in architecture. At the time, the field was overwhelmingly dominated by men, but Val was undeterred. She forged ahead with determination and skill, breaking barriers in the architectural world and leaving her mark on various cities around the globe.
Her professional journey took her to Mount Kisco, New York, Johannesburg, London, Edinburgh, and finally Charlottesville, Virginia, where she became part of the architectural firm Hayward, Llorens, and Boyd. Val worked there until her retirement in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of buildings that reflected her attention to detail and her understanding of the places they inhabited. Her career was marked not only by the technical skill she brought to her designs but also by her ability to collaborate and communicate with those around her. She built a reputation as a passionate and dedicated architect who wasn’t afraid to challenge the norms and push boundaries. Val’s work, while often understated, was a testament to her deep understanding of the built environment and the people it serves.
However, Val’s life was not solely defined by her career. In 1994, Val suffered the devastating loss of her daughter, Anne, who died at the young age of 29. Anne’s passing left two children orphaned in South Africa, and Val immediately stepped in to raise them as her own. The heartbreak of losing a child was immeasurable, but Val’s strength and resilience guided her through this dark period. She gained custody of her grandchildren and brought them back to Charlottesville, where they were welcomed and supported by their extended family. This act of devotion and love reflected Val’s unwavering commitment to her family, and she embraced her role as a grandmother with the same care and warmth that she had given to her own children.
Despite the immense grief of losing her daughter, Val refused to be defined by sorrow or loss. She found solace in the simple pleasures of life, and in her later years, she became known for her gratitude and appreciation of the world around her. Val found joy in the ever-changing sunrise, the sound of a passing train, a stroll by the river, the sight of bluebirds nesting in her yard, and the companionship of her snoozing dogs. These small moments brought her peace and a deep sense of connection to the world, and she was always willing to share these moments of beauty with others. Her family and friends were the beneficiaries of her contagious laughter, her kind smile, and the warmth she brought to every room she entered.
Val’s life was also enriched by her creative pursuits. She had a weekly art date with her dear friend Brenda, where the two would explore their artistic sides together, and she wrote and collected poems throughout her life. Her love for literature extended to her involvement in a short story club, where she would share her thoughts and reflections with like-minded individuals. Music, too, was a great source of joy for Val, and she often turned to it for comfort and inspiration. Her creative energy knew no bounds, and she shared her love of the arts with everyone around her, whether through her own creations or her appreciation of the work of others.
As Val aged, she was fortunate to be surrounded by a dedicated group of caregivers who provided her with in-home care in her later years. These extraordinary women brought not only their skill and professionalism but also their love, humor, and hard work, which helped to make Val’s final years comfortable and filled with the same warmth and care she had shown others throughout her life. Val’s family is eternally grateful for these caregivers, whose selflessness and devotion made a significant difference in her life.
Valerie Matthews may no longer be with us, but her legacy lives on in the lives of her family, her friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide her loved ones, who will carry forward the lessons she taught them about love, resilience, and the importance of finding joy in the small moments. Val was a woman who gave freely of herself—whether through her work as an architect, her unwavering dedication to her family, or her kindness and generosity toward those she loved. She leaves behind a profound legacy that will not soon be forgotten.
To her family, Val was a source of strength, love, and guidance. Her children and grandchildren, whom she raised with such care, will forever cherish the memories of the countless hours they spent with her—whether in conversation, in silence, or simply enjoying the beauty of the world together. To her friends, she was a confidant, a companion, and an inspiration. Her laugh, her smile, and her contagious enthusiasm for life will be missed but will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Valerie Matthews. Your presence in this world was a gift to all who knew you, and your memory will continue to live on in the hearts of your family and friends. The world is a better place because you were in it, and though you have passed, your spirit will continue to shine brightly. You were loved beyond measure, and you will never be forgotten.
