Valorie Jean Kozicki

Valorie Jean Kozicki, 79, of Wichita, KS, passed away on October 8, 2026. She was born on August 24, 1947 in Wichita, to Hayden and Vivian (Sanders) Beaird.

Valorie leaves behind her beloved husband of 42 years, Bob, son, Chad Michael and his wife, Erika; brother in law, Van Bratcher, and many cherished nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind two very special companions, her sweet dog, Oscar, and her cat, Olive who brought her endless love and joy.

She is preceded in death by her parents, and sister, Vicki “Penny” Bratcher.

Valorie was an extraordinary teacher whose career touched the lives of countless children and families. Her journey in education took her from Douglass, Kansas, to El Paso, Derby, and ultimately to Wichita Collegiate School in Wichita, Kansas where she completed her teaching career.

Valorie was a master teacher. Her classroom was always warm, inviting, and cheerful, and her students knew how deeply she cared about each of them. She had a remarkable ability to make every child feel valued and loved. Her classroom often included a very special kind of student – a service dog. Valorie raised service dogs from puppies, patiently teaching and nurturing them so they could go on to become loving companions and make a difference in the lives of others.

Valorie had a deep love for nature and all animals, especially dogs and cats. She was also a master gardener. Her gardens were always beautiful, and she seemed to know the name of every plant, bush, and tree. Gardening was another reflection of who Valorie was: patient, knowledgeable, nurturing, and always helping things grow.

Private family services to be held at a later date.