Obituary of Valeria James Strum

Valeria James Strum of Hillsborough, NC joined her Lord and Savior, along with many beloved family members in Heaven on Tuesday, December 14. Anyone that met her, within a few minutes was fully aware that she lived her Christian faith completely and openly, freely sharing the love she felt for others through her faith in Jesus Christ.

Valeria was married 61 years to Matthew Strum who predeceased her in 2006. She was born to Eugene and Addie James of Hurdle Mills, NC on October 1, 1924. One of seven children, she had a busy early life growing up on the family farm in rural Orange County. Matthew and Valeria raised their family in Hillsborough and she lived there after Matthew’s passing until 2013, when she moved to Charlotte, NC to be closer to her daughters and their families.

As an adult, after high school graduation she worked for Liggett Myers in Durham before starting a family and in the late 1960’s began working as a cloth inspector for Hillsborough Textiles. She continued there until her retirement. As a young girl she was a member of Little River Presbyterian Church and after marrying became a member of the Hillsborough Wesleyan Church where she was very active in Sunday School, children’s programs and mission activities. After moving to Charlotte, she continued to support church activities and was active at Providence Baptist Church and a member of the Sharing Class. All her life she worked to support and embody Christian principles. Often referred to as “Our Prayer Warrior”, friends, family and others she met would call or ask for her to pray for a specific need, even into her mid-90s.

Valeria and Matthew raised three children in Hillsborough, the late Richard Strum, Debra Strum Motsinger of Charlotte and Susan Strum McCarter of Clover, SC. She is survived by her daughters and son-in-law Mike Motsinger, 9 grandchildren, Richard Strum, David Strum, Lisa Denton, Jan Flack, Adam Motsinger, Daniel McCarter, Christopher Motsinger, Stephanie McCarter and Amelia Motsinger along with numerous great grandchildren.

Valeria is remembered for her prayers, kind heart, genuine smile and loving others through her baking. A classic Southern cook, she was always ready to prepare a comfort meal for anyone in need of loving support. Her Sour Cream Coconut Cakes were highly prized Christmas gifts. Her grandchildren have fond memories of her fried chicken, pecan pie and honey biscuits.

Due to COVID concerns a private family, graveside service was held at the Hillsborough Town Cemetery. She is at rest beside Matthew and son “Dickie”.

The family wants to thank so many of you for your visits, cards and calls during her residence in Charlotte. Keeping in touch with family and friends from “home” were vital to her happiness. A special thanks goes out to friends from the Sharing Class who helped her adjust to her new home in Charlotte and supported her with many cards with words of love and support over the last couple years. Also vital to the family for support over the last 21 months is the loving care offered by the Charlotte Area Hospice Staff. They have been beside the family during this journey and cared for Valeria with loving kindness.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Palliative care Charlotte Region, 7845 Little Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28226 or at their web site. hpccr.org.