It is with heavy hearts and deep love we announce that Valencia Root, of Saugeen First Nation, passed away peacefully with family by her side at the Windsor Regional Hospital on Thursday February 19, 2026.
Beloved daughter of Rita Root and the late Joseph Root. Loving mother to Andrew Joseph, Nimkii and the late Mkoons -little bear. Cherished by her sister Letitia, Predeceased by her brothers Elroy and Amirah. Aunt to Melissa (Stacey), Miranda (Matt), April (Jordan), Sammi-Jo (Ian), Sky, Lacey (Joe). Treasured by her great nieces Eden, Courage, Shyla, Ella and Nephew Nolan. And her mom away from home Shelagh. Also predeceased by her late husband Gerald “Ollie” Anoquot and her brother-in-law Harold Thompson.
Valencia’s legacy of love will live on in our hearts forever, she had such a passion for life, love, family, growth and the pursuit of social justice. She wanted a good life for everyone that was fair and equitable. Valencia dedicated her life to making the world a better place, whether that was teaching little ones to see the wonders of the world, visiting with friends and family, sitting on committees, advocating for change or supporting others quietly behind the scenes. She was like a gardener, always planting the seeds. She had a heart of gold, had wisdom born through the toughest storms, she was gentle, kind, lived for the small moments in life, spending time talking with her sons, taking walks in the yard with her nieces, family gatherings, she had this way of living in the moment and seeing the beauty in everything. She was brilliant and grounded, she was funny and loved to laugh. She was a mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, advocate, teacher, healer and warrior. She fought a fierce battle until her last breath.
Visitations at 766 French Bay Rd, Saugeen First Nation on Monday February 23rd and Tuesday February 24th at 6pm. A Service to Celebrate the Life of Valencia will be held at the James Mason Memorial Centre, on Wednesday February 25 at 2 pm. Cremation to follow.
Donations in her honor can be made to the Saugeen First Nation Public Library – Valencia called the library a place of hope.
“Grief is just the love we have with no place to go” – Jamie Anderson
