Celestina "Tina" Armida Valenzuela

Tina Valenzuela, of Napa, departed peacefully on February 20, 2025. She was born on April 6, 1932, in Brentwood, California, into a close-knit and loving family that she cherished deeply. The youngest of the family and the only girl, Tina was adored by her loving parents Rita and Jesus Romero, and her four brothers, Salvador, Steven, Jess, and Henry, all of whom predeceased her. Her brothers lovingly nicknamed her "Honey," a name that stuck and was used throughout her life. To her many nieces and nephews, she was affectionately known as "Tía Honey".

Tina's middle name, "Armida," derived from Latin, means "armed" or "warrior." It was a fitting name, one that reflected her strength, valor, and dedication. As a mother, she was a warrior for her family, which included her daughter Stephnia Lynn and her four sons, John, Michael, Angelo, and Jimmy. Tina was selfless in support of all her children's endeavors and was ready to support them in whatever way she could. Whether it was playing catch in the backyard with aspiring pitchers, guiding along in the kitchen when they took an interest in cooking, or critiquing drawings of fashion and design, Tina was always there, always available and present. Tina wanted the best for her children and encouraged them each to pursue their passions and dreams. As her children grew and grandchildren arrived, she continued to show unwavering support, always there for them, happy to watch over them with open arms.

Tina joined the work force full time in the late 1960s as an office worker for a local business. She carried on in her working career for over 30 years. She was well respected by her coworkers for her professionalism, dedication, and strong work ethic, all values she instilled in her children. She retired in 2002 at which time she travelled nationally and internationally and began other pursuits.

A talented and passionate embroiderer, Tina learned the craft from her mother. She created beautiful, embroidered shirts and tea towels, cherished gifts for her loved ones. In her retirement years, she shared her craft with her daughter and daughter-in-law Rochelle, creating many quilts that were later given to her grandchildren as they began their own families. She also enjoyed teaching the craft to the tiny hands of her granddaughters.

Tina was also a remarkable cook, known for her traditional Mexican recipes. Her homemade tortillas, tamales, and menudo were family favorites, and her famous potato salad and deviled eggs were legendary. The party never truly began until Tina's deviled eggs made their appearance - no matter how many she made there were never enough to satisfy the crowd!

An avid lover of puzzles, word jumble, number or jigsaw, Tina found great joy in the challenge of a good puzzle. She was especially fond of jigsaw puzzles. Whether a five-thousand-piece puzzle or a puzzle of dizzying and intricate design, she would tackle and complete all with incredible speed and ease.

Tina's life was one of love, strength, and dedication to her family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, skill, and an unwavering love for those she held dear. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She is survived by and forever in the hearts of daughter Stephnia (Bill), sons, John (Gisela), Michael, Angelo, and Jimmy. Nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, her beloved sister-in-law Virginia Romero and numerous nieces and nephews also survive her. She was predeceased by her grandson Ian Pramuk and her daughter-in-law Rochelle (Jimmy's wife).

A Celebration of Life and Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, April 12, at 11 a.m. at St. Apollinaris Catholic Church, 3700 Lassen St., Napa. Reception and refreshments directly following in the church hall. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Providence Hospice Napa Valley, 414 S Jefferson St., Napa, CA, 94559.

The Valenzuela family would like to express a special thanks to all the wonderful caregivers and staff at Napa Post Acute and the incredible team at Providence Hospice Napa Valley.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Celestina "Tina" Armida Valenzuela, please visit our floral store.