Valerie Matthews Death and Obituary – Valerie Anne Matthews, the beloved mother of renowned American musician Dave Matthews, passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2025, at the age of 89. She died peacefully at her home in Charlottesville, Virginia, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and dedication that will forever resonate with her family, friends, and the many lives she touched. Her death marks the end of a remarkable journey, but her influence and memory will continue to live on through the enduring impact she had on those around her.
Born on May 11, 1935, in Potchefstroom, South Africa, Valerie—affectionately known as “Val”—was the daughter of Rupert Borchers, a geologist, and Muriel Borchers (née Ward), an artist. From an early age, Val was immersed in an environment that nurtured curiosity, creativity, and a passion for exploration. These formative years played a crucial role in shaping the woman she would become.
Val’s academic journey began at the age of five when she attended Roedean School in Johannesburg. Her time there, especially when she began boarding at the school at age eight, laid the foundation for a lifelong love of reading, early rising, and intellectual curiosity. These characteristics remained with her throughout her life. Val later pursued a degree in architecture at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, a time when the field was predominantly male. Undeterred by the gender imbalance, she carved out her place in the world of architecture, and her dedication to her craft would leave a lasting impact on the profession.
Her career as an architect was both diverse and distinguished, taking her to places such as Mount Kisco, New York, Johannesburg, London, Edinburgh, and eventually Charlottesville. She joined the architectural firm Hayward, Llorens, and Boyd, where she worked until her retirement in 1994. Val’s work was known for its understated elegance, attention to detail, and deep understanding of the spaces she designed. Although her contributions to the architectural world may not have been as widely publicized as some of her peers, they were no less significant. She built a reputation as a skilled professional who wasn’t afraid to challenge conventions and push boundaries.
Val’s personal life was equally impactful, marked by love, strength, and selflessness. In 1994, she faced the unimaginable tragedy of losing her daughter Anne at the age of 29. The loss was a profound blow, and Val’s grief was compounded by the responsibility of raising Anne’s two young children. Despite the heartbreaking circumstances, Val embraced her role as a grandmother with grace and determination, providing her grandchildren with the love and stability they needed during such a difficult time. This act of devotion demonstrated Val’s unwavering commitment to her family and her ability to persevere through even the most trying moments.
In the years that followed, Val found comfort in the simple joys of life. She developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world around her, from the serene sunrises to the sight of bluebirds nesting in her yard. Music, art, and literature were integral parts of her life, and she cherished time spent with friends, engaging in creative pursuits like writing poetry and exploring art together. Val’s infectious laughter, kind smile, and unwavering optimism made her a beloved presence in any room.
As Val entered her later years, she was fortunate to be supported by a group of devoted caregivers who provided her with the same compassion and care she had shown others throughout her life. The Matthews family is deeply grateful for the love and selflessness of these caregivers, who made Val’s final years as comfortable and filled with warmth as possible.
Though Valerie Matthews is no longer with us, her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched. Her family, friends, and colleagues will forever remember her as a beacon of strength, kindness, and grace. Her memory serves as a reminder to find joy in the small moments and to always approach life with gratitude, love, and resilience.
Valerie Matthews leaves behind a profound legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Rest in peace, Val. You will never be forgotten.