Valerie "Coats" Ann Philyaw

Gilbert-Valerie Ann (Coats) Philyaw, resident of Gilbert, SC, passed away, Friday, July 12, 2013 at Palmetto Health Richland. Born August 21, 1956, in Sumter, SC, she was a daughter of Kathleen "Kathy" (McKeeby) Coats and the late Garry O'Neal Coats, Sr. She was a graduate of Cardinal Newman High School, class of 1974, as well as a graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Nursing, class of 1977. Val started her career at Palmetto Health Richland early in her first year at USC. Early in her professional life she became one of the Evening Assistant Directors of Nursing and held that position until her retirement. She was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend to all; and touched many lives with her work and generous hospitality. Val especially enjoyed being outside with her family and friends on the lake, as well as tending to her plants. "Rest in peace darling Val, you will be sorely missed!" In addition to her mother, Val is survived by her husband of 21 years, Richard Alan Philyaw, of Gilbert; daughter, Samantha Lea Philyaw, of Gilbert; three siblings, Garry O. Coats, Jr., of Winnsboro; Leslie Coats Jacob, of Lynbrook, NY; and Steven Coats, of Charlotte. Val will be cremated and a memorial service will be announced and held at a later date. The family requests that those wishing to send memorial contributions, to please visit www.riverbanks.org select the Donate tab, and to choose from one of the Individual Giving Opportunities that are available in memory of Val. Friends and relatives are invited to view this obituary and share condolences or memories with the family at www.greenlawnmemorialparkandfh.com Arrangements have been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home, 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia.