Valerie Turnidge McGettigan, woman of many passions

Valerie Turnidge McGettigan, 81, of Georgetown, passed away Monday, Nov. 10, 2025. Born in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, England, Valerie grew up in England and graduated from high school there before later earning a certificate from Baltimore School of Massage.

She married her childhood sweetheart, John James McGettigan, April 9, 1966, in Washington, D.C. Valerie spent many years working as a bookkeeper, and in an inspiring mid-life pursuit, she chose at 50 to study massage therapy—beginning a new chapter.

Valerie was a woman of many passions. She adored animals, had a deep appreciation for Indian art and jewelry. She loved yoga, traveling to England to visit her family, and attending live music shows, especially Neil Diamond.

Valerie is survived by her older brother, Robin Turnidge of Durban, South Africa; her former husband and lifelong friend, John James McGettigan; their daughters, Tracy Ann Nitchie of York, Pa., and Erin McGettigan Walls of Millsboro; and her sons-in-law, John Nitchie and James Andrew Walls. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Logan C. Nitchie of Maryland, Savannah M. Nitchie of Pennsylvania, and Ellie R. Walls of Delaware; as well as several nieces and nephews in Maryland and England, all of whom she cherished deeply.

Valerie was predeceased by her parents, Herbert and Gertrude (Claxton) Turnidge; her younger sister, Susan Lynn Wagland of Devon, England; and her beloved partner of more than 30 years, John W. Harris.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Dec. 22, at Parsell Funeral Homes, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where family and friends may visit beginning at 10 a.m. A private graveside service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Valerie’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, alz.org; or the ASPCA of Maryland or Delaware, bvspca.org.

Visit Valerie’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.