Rose Messina Valdes

She was one of seven children born in Tampa, Florida (Ybor City) to parents who came to the United States from Sicily. She graduated from Florida State College For Women (now Florida State University) with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics. She was accepted to the Dietetics Program at St . Mary’s Hospital in Rochester. Although she had never been out of the state of Florida, she traveled to Rochester by herself on the train. Upon completion of the year long Dietetics program she received her diploma and was honored that it was signed by Charles W. Mayo. She returned to her alma mater as a course instructor prior to beginning her career as a Registered Dietician in Tampa. She retired from teaching in the Hillsborough County School System after 37 years.

She married Victor Valdes at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tampa and they were married for 58 years. She was a devout Catholic who attended or watched mass daily. She also prayed the rosary weekly with friends. She had a deep commitment to her family and friends and believed in helping others in need. For many years she was a caregiver for her mother and sister.

She loved to sew and made beautiful clothes for herself, her daughter, and nieces. She enjoyed quilting, knitting, cross-stitch, and doing word search puzzles. She had been a volunteer for Meals on Wheels in Tampa. With Victor driving and Rose navigating, they took many road trips that ultimately led to Rochester so they could visit their daughter. Rose was proud to have been trained at St. Mary’s and she was so proud of her daughter being on staff at Mayo.

She was preceded in death by her parents, five brothers, one sister, and her husband.

She is survived by her daughter Dr. Maria Valdes, five nieces, and three nephews.

Sincere thanks to Dr. Alfredo Clavell (her cardiologist of many years) for his excellent care. He treated her as if she were family.

For the past four months Mayo Hospice provided support, compassion, and extraordinary care to her.

Special thanks to Kris, Kelli, Amy, Miranda, Rachel, Renee, Brent, and Mike. We were so fortunate to have all of your support and guidance.

Private interment will be in the family mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Rose’s memory to Meals on Wheels of Tampa 5320 North Boulevard. Tampa, Florida 33603 or online at mowtampa.org would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.dignitymemorial.com