Arlington
Obituary: East Arlington Resident Valerie Takvorian Dies at 86
Valerie Ann Takvorian passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a life devoted to learning, creativity, and kindness. She was born on May 23, 1940, in Paterson, New Jersey, to the late George…
Last updated:
Key points
- East Arlington resident Valerie Ann Takvorian passed away at age 86.
- She worked for decades as an art and English as a Second Language educator before retiring to Vermont in 2012.
- Private cremation has taken place, with a celebration of life to be scheduled at a later date.
East Arlington resident Valerie Ann Takvorian passed away on July 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of education, artistic creativity, and community involvement. She made her full-time home in the Green Mountains following a long career in public education.
According to an obituary published by Shea Family Funeral Homes, Takvorian was born on May 23, 1940, in Paterson, New Jersey, to George Takvorian and Agnes Tajarian. She spent most of her early life in Clifton, New Jersey, before fulfilling her dream of moving permanently to Vermont.
A Lifetime of Teaching and Creativity
Takvorian earned a master’s degree in art from Montclair State University and completed coursework at New York University. She earned certification as a Teacher of English as a Second Language and spent decades serving students in the Paterson School District.
In her professional work, she taught art to young students and taught English as a Second Language in adult education programs. She retired from teaching in 2012.
Life in Vermont and Memorial Details
In retirement, Takvorian immersed herself in the East Arlington community, where she spent time painting, sculpting, tending flower gardens, and attending local theater and musical performances.
Takvorian was predeceased by her parents, her sister Violet Skenderian, her brother George Takvorian, and her sister-in-law Christine Takvorian. She is survived by her nieces, Laura DeGrassie and June Ann Sina, her nephew, Gregory Takvorian, and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
Private cremation arrangements have been completed, and a celebration of life will be announced by the family for a later date. In lieu of flowers, family members encourage local residents to plant a flower, create art, or support an educational program in her memory.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting by Hanson-Walbridge & Shea Funeral & Cremation Service – Arlington originally published by Shea Family Funeral Homes (Bennington, VT). Read the original story.
