WARREN — After a valiant 4 year battle, Valerie Bean, 65, of Warren, Maine, succumbed to the increasingly aggressive cancer that consumed her body. Surrounded by the love of her son and 3 sisters, she passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025 in Rockport, Maine.

Valerie was born on May 27, 1959 in Rockland, Maine to Arthur Bean Sr. and Joyce Jackson Bean, the youngest of 6 children. Always a free independent spirit, she lived life on her own terms, right to the last moment of her life.

After graduation and marriage, Valerie and her previous husband, John Leland, co-owned Riverside Race and Recreation for many years, later adding a gift shop that brought her many hours of enjoyment. She was thrilled to finally become a mother in 1997, when her son Caleb Leland was born.

Before her cancer overtook her body, she spent many happy hours in her garden, nurturing her perennials to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. She treasured time with her son, siblings, and nieces and nephews.

Valerie was predeceased by her parents and brother Arthur Bean Jr, and her constant companion, Diesel, her dog.

She is survived by her son, Caleb, the light of her life; her brother Jeff Bean and his wife Liz; sisters Lyn Faller and husband Bill, Juanita Smalley and husband Keith, and Melinda Leland; and several nieces and nephews.

Her family wishes to express gratitude to all of the caring staff at the Cancer Center at MaineHealth, Pen Bay.

At the request of Valerie, a private celebration of her life will be held at a later date.