Valerie Jean Heffernan

Valerie Jean Heffernan, 70, of Trumbull, formerly of Ridgefield, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Valerie, previously known as Valerie Cava, was born in Newburgh, NY, on December 17, 1954, to the late Patrick and Barbara (Howe) Heffernan.

Valerie spent her early childhood in the Bronx, attending PS 96. She enjoyed boating on the Long Island Sound and often traveled with her parents and brother, Douglas. She graduated from Sleepy Hollow High School and began a career as a stenographer for the City of Yonkers Court System.

Valerie later moved to Ridgefield, Connecticut, with her former husband, Alfred (Al) Cava, to raise their two daughters, Kristen (Cava) Dance and Lauren (Cava) Koczeniak, dedicating her life to their upbringing. She eventually relocated to Trumbull to be closer to her daughters and grandchildren, a source of immense pride and joy.

Valerie was predeceased by her parents, Barbara and Patrick Heffernan, and her nephew, Ryan Heffernan. She is survived by her daughters, Kristen Dance and Lauren Koczeniak; her son-in-law, Jason Koczeniak; and her beloved grandchildren, Hadley Dance, Emma Koczeniak, and Lucas Koczeniak. She is also survived by her brother, Douglas Heffernan, and his wife, Diane; her nephew, Tyler Heffernan, and his wife, Ashley; and the father of her children, Alfred Cava.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Kane Funeral Home; 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield. A prayer service will be offered at 4:00 PM. Interment will take place privately.

Contributions in Valerie’s memory may be made to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission - PO Box 9057; Bridgeport, CT 06601, https://bridgeportrescuemission.org/

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