George "Leo" Valentine

George “Leo” Valentine, 94, of Gallipolis passed away on March 8, 2022 of natural causes. Leo was a loving husband to his wife Clarice for 67 years, father to his children Rita (DePalatis), Tom, Ann (Ramey). He was grandfather to Laura, Michael, Christopher, Anthony, Trent, Taylor, Brooke, and Ben. He was great grandfather to Paige and Callum. Leo was born on May 22, 1927 in Gallipolis to Alonzo and Cora Belle (Criner) Valentine and was one of their 10 children who survived to adulthood. Leo graduated from Gallia Academy High School in 1945 and immediately enlisted in the US Navy as World War II was coming to an end. At that time Leo and 4 of his brothers (Clyde, Frank, Charles, and Paul) were serving in the war at the same time. After his honorable discharge from the Navy Leo worked a variety of jobs and ultimately used his GI bill to enroll in Rio Grande college and obtained his teaching certificate. Teaching school by day while continuing his education at night until he found a job at Kyger Creek power plant. During that time he met a beautiful student nurse named Clarice Evelyn Owens who was in the Holzer school of nursing. They fell in love and were married August 2, 1954. He said this was the smartest decision he ever made. After their marriage Leo and Clarice’s family grew with the birth of Rita, Tom and Ann. Leo was an active sportsman throughout his life. This interest included forming baseball teams with his brothers and neighbors, participating in high school athletics, playing baseball for the US Navy’s Pearl Harbor team and football for Rio Grande College. Leo’s baseball skills earned him a stint with the Cleveland Indians organization. Leo also enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, gardening and spending time with his wife and children. Leo worked at the Ohio Valley Electric Corporation (OVEC) for 35 years in a variety of positions, ending his career as the Human Resources Director. After his retirement Leo and Clarice enjoyed their life in Gallipolis while also traveling throughout the country. They visited many National Parks and their children and grandchildren in Michigan, Texas, California and Hawaii. His love for his family had no limits and he was affectionately known as the fun loving “Grandpa Leo” to all his grandchildren. Leo was also an active part of the community. He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, the Elks Club and an inductee to the GAHS Athletic Hall of Fame. He was also active with the senior citizens, which he referred to as “the wrinkle club”. His love for his family and the community was endless and he was always available for his family and friends. Leo will be sorely missed. The service for Leo will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 14, 2022 at Willis Funeral Home with Pastor Ray Kane officiating. A Time of Gathering with the family will follow the service at Grace United Methodist Church. Please visit www.willisfuneralhome.com to send e-mail condolences.