Wilbur Valley majored in science and mathematics at the New York State College for Teachers in Albany, graduating in 1940. Following graduation, he joined the faculty of Ludlowville High School as head of the science department, director of visual education, and class advisor to the 10th grade. Following the outbreak of World War II, he joined the Army Air Force and began pilot training in the fall of 1942. In March 1944, he went overseas, serving as navigator on a bomber. he was killed in action while on his sixth combat mission over Germany on May 19, 1944.

Read more about Valley in the Louis C. Jones Letters:

Letter of April 28, 1944
Letter of March 14, 1945