Valerie "Val" Galanis, a woman of great strength, generosity, and love passed away peacefully at home on May 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 13, 1962 in Chicago, Illinois, to Elizabeth (nee Stasinos) and John J. Zacharias.

Val lived an extraordinary life rooted in faith, kindness, and devotion to family. Growing up on the south side of Chicago, she was a beacon of joy and compassion to all who knew her. She was a proud graduate of Koraes, Class of 1975, and throughout her life cherished the many friendships and connections she formed there.

Valerie earned her Bachelor of Arts in Business from National Louis University and began her career in the technology field in the early 1990s. Through her determination, intelligence, and tireless work ethic, she rose to become Executive Vice President for some of the nation's largest title companies, where she built countless lifelong friendships and professional relationships. As a woman in business, Valerie blazed a trail and became a role model, not only for her children, but also for the many people she mentored and inspired throughout her career.

Family was at the center of Valerie's world. She married the love of her life, Jim, on July 23, 1989 at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Palos Hills. And together, they raised two beautiful children, George and Julie. They built their forever home in Naperville, which became Val's pride and joy. Val and Jim traveled the world with George and Julie, though they always found themselves drawn back to their beloved homeland of Greece whenever possible. Valerie's deep roots and Greek heritage were central to who she was, and she instilled those same values of faith, family, and tradition in her children.

Valerie's unwavering faith carried her through life's greatest joys and toughest of battles. She was a pillar of the community at Saints Constantine and Helen Church. Lovingly nicknamed "The Mayor of Palos" by her family, Val touched countless lives through her warmth, compassion, and genuine care for others.

Valerie was an inspiration to all who knew her, and her legacy of love, strength, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Valerie is survived by her beloved husband of 37 years, James; her loving children, George (Christina) and Julie (Theofanis); her sister, Mirka (late George) Lenos and her brother, Detrie (Sue) Zacharias; her many nephews, nieces, and Godchildren; and many cherished family members, friends, and loved ones whose lives were forever changed by knowing her.

May her memory be eternal. Αιώνια η μνήμη.

Visitation Wednesday, May 27th, 3:00 - 8:00 PM at Thornridge Funeral Home (Janusz Family Funeral Service) 14318 S. LaGrange Road (Northbound traffic: U-turn permitted at 143rd St.) Orland Park. Trisagion Service, 6:30 PM.

Funeral Thursday, May 28, family and friends to meet directly at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 11105 South Roberts Road, Palos Hills, IL 60465, at 9:45 AM for the 10:00 AM Funeral Service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a memorial donation be made in Valerie's honor at one of two very important foundations near to her heart.

St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital:

Online Donations - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Cancer Fund of the Edward Foundation:

donate.endeavorhealth.org/edward (Gift Designation: "Cancer Fund - Edward")