Can't turn valve to light furnace!

[Lacy1187]

I have an 1980's furnace that has a gas valve that I can not turn. My ex-husband would always light the furnace and he won't tell me what trick gets the valve to turn. The valve is an ESSEX model # SX242N. I have tried everything and can't get it to turn to pilot or off. I've even had two other men look at it and they can't get it either. Help, it's getting cold down here in Texas.

[Hube]

Did you try "depressing" it and then turn? , Hube

[Lacy1187]

Yes sir, tried everything but just in case let me make sure I'm understanding what "depressing" is. It's just pushing down on the valve right? If not then I haven't tried that one. I've tried pushing down, then turn, turn, then push down. Also tried it with the power off, and on. It will only move a hair and it's driving me crazy because I'm sure it's something really little that I'm missing. Surely it can't be this hard. [V]