Virginia Valencia Obituary

Oxford resident, Virginia P. Valencia, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2023, surrounded by her family. Virginia was born to Joe T. and Mary D. Martinez, Sr. on January 8, 1939, in Oxford, Colorado. Virginia attended Oxford Grange schools and Ignacio schools. Virginia married her high school sweetheart, Joe G. Valencia, Jr. on April 23, 1960, after he completed his service with the United States Army. Together, the family home was built in Oxford where they resided their entire lives. Virginia was a skilled homemaker. Her passions were quilting, crocheting, beading, cooking and making other handmade gifts for her family. She enjoyed a quiet simple life visiting her neighbors, drinking coffee, eating homemade biscochitos, and reminiscing about the old days. Virginia's family history was published in a book "Tri-Cultural Traditions in the Upper San Juan Basin". She and her two brothers assisted the author tracing the family's history from Prussia to settling in La Plata County. Her contribution to the book was a testament of her love for her family so that it would be passed on through the generations and not lost. Virginia is preceded in death by her husband Joe G. Valencia, Jr., parents, Joe T and Mary D. Martinez, Sr.; sisters, Mary T. Villarreal, Vivian Ruybal and Cordy Jaques.

Virginia is survived by her children: Ricky Valencia and Kendra (Ed) Alexander; nephew, she raised, Alan Villarreal; grandchildren: Kyla and Keagan Alexander; great grandchildren: Andy Jr., Jace, Vayda, Nolan and Neva; sister Sarah Hayes; Joe T. Martinez Jr., and James D. Martinez and many nieces, nephews, and relatives.

A memorial service will be held at a later date with burial at the Oxford Cemetery. A very special thank you to Janine from Home Instead and Camy from Mercy Hospice.

"We will hold you in our hearts until we can hold you again in Heaven"