Maria Jesus Valencia

Maria Jesus Valencia – August 3, 1928 – September 17, 2026

Mary J. Valencia, lovingly known to her family as "Ama", passed away on September 18, 2026, of natural causes at Canyon Terrace Senior Living in La Verne, California. She was 98 years old. Born on August 3, 1928, in San Ignacio, Baja California, Mary's life was shaped early by love and devotion. She married her husband, Angelo, at the age of fifteen and welcomed her first child at sixteen. Though her formal education ended in elementary school and she never worked outside the home, Mary built a legacy far greater than any title could hold. As the mother of sixteen children and the wife of a World War II combat veteran, she poured herself fully into her family, becoming the steady heart of a large and loving household. Mary was known throughout her neighborhood for her wonderful cooking and authentic Mexican dishes, and for the lasting friendships she cultivated over a lifetime. She delighted in simple pleasures: the outdoors, road trips and travel, mariachi music, backyard and park barbecues, and her beloved Latin novellas. She was an active presence in her children's educational and sporting lives and enjoyed bowling and dancing well into her years. As a devoted Catholic and Christian convert, Mary found strength and comfort in her faith. She was preceded by her husband, Angelo M. Valencia, and their children: Miguel (Mike), Mary-Helen, Christopher, Yolanda, Carmen, and Emily. She is survived by her children: Vicki, Theresa, Jose, Irene, George, Martha, Rosemary, Jesse, Frank and Johnny, along with her cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. A visitation/ viewing will be held on Wednesday the evening of September 30 at 4:00- 5:00 p.m. for the family; 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. for all others. The Memorial Service will also take place at Todd Memorial Chapel at 570 N Garey Ave, Pomona, CA 91767 on Thursday, October 1, at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral and graveside gathering at Forest Lawn at 21300 Via Verde St, Covina, CA 91724. Family members are asked to attend, and all friends and acquaintances are warmly invited and encouraged to join in honoring her memory. Note: A Celebration of Life in-honor of Mary, for Family and close friends is being planned. Time and place are TBD. Check back soon.