It is with a heavy heart to announce that our beloved family member Valerie Ann Nino has passed away unexpectedly. Valerie has many names within our immediate family; we know her as “Oyl,” “Sis,” "Tia Oyl" or “Mom.” Valerie was a daughter to Linda and Margarito Nino; a sister to Yvonne Ashline-Nino and Victoria Nino; a wonderful Tia to all of her nieces and nephews - Vinnie Ashline Jr., Eddie Torres III, and Linda, Antonio, and Aliyah Lemus; a mother to Martin Olivera Jr., Karma Epiphany Nino-Alberti, Maggy, and Molly.

My mother was full of life - both the highs and the lows. It should be known that my mother lived her life with severe mental health symptoms, but she never let it stop her from enjoying life to the fullest. She was the brightest star in the room, your biggest cheerleader, and your biggest defender. She had a smile that could make your heart melt and she loved making you blush. She made you feel seen, heard, and most importantly loved. The last couple of years of her life, she dedicated to getting sober and even becoming a substance use counselor for an all-women’s recovery program. My mother had the insight on how to battle addiction and mental health concerns because she lived it and had a desire to help others. My mother leaned into her community and uplifted others even if she did not have the capacity to lift herself up. She was a selfless woman who wanted to do better and be better. My mother never shied away from showing the best and worst sides of her, and even to her last days, she was authentically herself.

Our family would like to lay her to rest the way she would have wanted. If you are able to donate any amount, it would greatly impact our family during this sensitive time. Our family has always relied on community, and we hope to provide more information regarding her celebration of life.

Thank you again.