Virginia L. Valentine, 82, of Pittsburgh, died Sept. 22, 2026, at Juniper Village in Pittsburgh.

Formally of Catasauqua, she was the daughter of the late Homer and Lena (Schleicher) Steckel.

She earned her master’s degree from the University of Minnesota.

Beginning her professional journey as a registered pediatric nurse, she later transitioned to academia, serving as a professor of nursing at Minnesota State University and the University of Pittsburgh. Following her retirement from teaching, she continued her commitment to healthcare by working in hospice care. Throughout her career, she dedicated more than 40 years to both nursing and education before retiring to pursue further academic endeavors.

She was a member of the former St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Catasauqua.

She contributed her time and expertise as a docent for the Sen. John Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh and volunteered for Meals on Wheels.

She is survived by a daughter, Becky; a brother, Barry with Faye; an aunt, Louise; three grandchildren, Rachel, Cody and Ian; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by a brother, Donald.

Services are private and at the convenience of the family.

Contributions may be made to Humane Animal Rescue Pittsburgh, 1101 Western Ave., Pittsburgh, 15233, or at humaneanimalrescue.org.

Arrangements were made by Brubaker Funeral Home Inc., Catasauqua.