On this Fourth of July, we pay tribute to ALL who made America such a great country … Home of the Brave, Land of the Free!

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We are sad to report the passing of a very special woman. Doreen Wallace passed away on May 31, 2023 at the age of 90. Doreen was loved and cherished by many especially her daughter Sandy Fife of Valley Home. She was the devoted mother of two sons, the late Barry Smith (Peggy) of Sonora, and the late Roger Smith (Regy) of Valley Home. She was the cherished grandmother of 13 beloved grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren. She was a lifelong member of Saint John’s Lutheran Church and the Women’s Missionary League. She ran, and operated a custom haying business with her late husband. She could make the most amazing lemon meringue pies and was an very avid quilter! She gifted many baby quilts over the years. Two of those beautiful baby quilts were gifted many years ago to Lainey and Halley Smith; Lainey and Halley both still have those cherished quilts. Doreen was very generous, and she supported many nonprofit organizations. She loved spending time with her family and her friends at her cabin at the Dardanelles. She was a very special woman and will be remembered fondly by many. You may share your thoughts and your condolences with the family in the guestbook provided. Our heartfelt sympathy and our love go out to Doreen’s family and friends.

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We are deeply saddened by the passing of another amazing Valley Home friend and neighbor. Ray Weaver was a very dedicated leader of many youth groups, he was especially generous and supportive to our Valley Home 4-H and Sierra 4-H. Ray and his late wife often invited groups of the blind to come for wonderful weekends of fun on their Valley Home Ranch. They would teach the unsighted, with the help of many, including many 4-Hers, they would help the blind to shoot with bow and arrows! It was always a great time at the Weavers; plenty of bass fishing in their private pond, always delicious BBQ, tons of amazing food, plenty for all. The Weavers were a very important part of our community! They loved being a part of our Fall Harvest Festival and also our Valley Home Lighted Christmas Parade. Ray loved to be Santa Claus in the parade; he gave out the biggest candy canes he could find. We will forever remember his great love for our Valley Home community! Our deepest sympathy and our love to Ray’s family and friends. Services for Ray will be held on July 21, 2023, 10 am to 1 pm at the Veterans Memorial Hall, 808 4th Street, Clovis, California. Fellowship reception to follow, all are welcome.

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As always, you may reach me by email, winniemullins51@gmail.com or by telephone at 209-985-5233.

Happy Fourth of July week to all!