Lasting Memories

Rachel Crawford Valentine
Oct. 24, 1935-May 20, 2026
Woodside, California

Rachel passed away peacefully on May 20th at the age of ninety. Deeply loved by her family, she will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Born Rachel Crawford in Emporia, Kansas in 1935, Rachel graduated from Emporia State University in 1957 with a bachelor’s degree in Education. Following graduation, she put her creative talents to work as the continuity writer for the local radio station, KVOE – "The Voice of Emporia". Ready for a new adventure, she journeyed to Southern California to pursue her passion for teaching. There she met the love of her life, Donald, and they married at Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes in 1961. The following year they moved north, eventually settling in Woodside, California.

Whether in Woodside or traveling the world, Rachel embraced life's vibrant experiences. At home and among friends, she played tennis and loved bridge. She and her friend Marian started a Fairchild Semiconductor ladies bridge group, which continued for over 40 years. A prolific reader, she shared her joy of books with family and friends – Anthony Trollope was a favorite author.

Rachel and Donald shared a passion for the symphony, opera, and musical theater. She delighted in her time at the Woodside Atherton Garden Club, Menlo Country Club, The Stock Farm, and The Estancia Club. Needlepoint was her favorite creative activity. Her incredible work continues to grace the homes of her children and grandchildren. When each grandchild was born, she designed and created an individual piece. She also organized a needlepoint group that completed a large-scale piece depicting iconic images of the Stanford University campus that is displayed at the official residence of Stanford’s president.

A consummate hostess, Rachel made her home a hub of hospitality. She threw wonderful dinner parties and was a dazzling cook who delighted in trying bold, spicy foods. She would never serve a guest the same meal twice and always had room for any of her children’s friends who found themselves with nowhere to go for Thanksgiving. Her Julia Child cookbook is lovingly worn and spattered.

She is preceded by her beloved husband of 58 years, Donald. She is survived by her children, Christian, Mark, and Hilary, and their families. To her seven grandchildren, she was Grandmother.

The Valentine family wishes to extend their deep gratitude to Rachel’s devoted and loving caregivers, most importantly Katie, who was an indefatigably attentive and compassionate companion for over nine years, allowing Rachel to live with joy and dignity during her later years.

Rachel will be long remembered for her wonderful smile, quick wit, vibrant passion, and kind heart.

Private family arrangements are being held.