Valesha Aslee Troutman-Foster, beloved daughter of Luciea and Michael Foster, of Shiloh, Illinois, born April 2, 1976 in Pekin, Illinois, lost her battle for life on Tuesday, July 12, 2011.

Valesha graduated from Astoria High School, Astoria, Illinois, where she successfully participated in athletics. She attended Western Illinois University in Macomb for two years. She was generous to a fault-willing to give wholly of herself to help others. She was kind-hearted and sensitive, and often shared her snacks with the homeless on the streets. She was always able to shine a bright light on a dreary day, and to uplift those around her.

Her fight began when she was diagnosed with Lupus at age 18. Combined with her struggles with mental illness, which she battled most of her adult life, her life came to an abrupt end when she could no longer fight. Her loving family is devastated by the emptiness left by her passing.

Valesha's struggles should encourage us all to stay connected with our families. Parents, always talk with your children, and listen deeply to their words, so you can recognize when things aren't quite right.

She is survived by her mother and daddy, Lucy (nee Troutman) and Michael Foster of Shiloh, Illinois, her brothers Steven and Jason Foster; her nieces, Zoey and Emmileah Foster, and nephew Keltyn Foster; her uncles Leon and Bill Troutman; her grandmother Jo Ann McMillan; Ruffus Quill, several cousins and many friends.

Memorial donations may be made to assist the family.

A Celebration of Life service is being planned in Valesha's hometown of Astoria, Illinois.