Wanda Valero, 69, wife of Johnny Valero of Columbus, Georgia passed away peacefully on December 27, 2023 surrounded by her family and loved ones. She spent her last few days in Columbus Hospice where she received exceptional care.
She was a member of Second Baptist Church. She worked as a Master Jeweler for many years and eventually became a homemaker. She enjoyed crafting and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs and the Atlanta Braves. Her most cherished times spent were with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who loved to hear her sing, “You Are My Sunshine.” She had a servant’s heart and was always willing to help others.
She is survived by her loving husband Johnny Valero of 52 years, her three children Wendy Valero Cross (Chucky), Chastidy Valero Lee (Chris), Johnboy Valero (Alison) her grandchildren, Kaitlyn Cross Rejcek, Kelsie Cross, MacKenzie Ward (Elliot), Maddie Lee, Lindsey Pons (Parker), Bailey Mashburn (Seth), Rylie Valero and Will Valero. Wanda was blessed with two great-grandchildren, Weston Rejcek, and Nora Kate Cross. She is also survived by two sisters, Margaret Williams and Debbie Junkin (Scott) as well as many wonderful nieces and nephews.
Wanda was predeceased by her parents, Bill and Annie Maude Langford, a brother Terry Langford, and a grandson Michael John “Mikey” Thomas.
The family is extremely grateful to Reverends Hank and Mike Reeves who have gone above and beyond to make this difficult time as comforting as possible. The family is accepting flowers, or a generous donation to Columbus Hospice.
A celebration of life will be held in her honor. We request family and friends to join us in celebrating her beautiful life at Striffler Hamby in Columbus on January 2, 2024. Visitation will be from 4:00 –5:00pm and the celebration of life service will begin at 5:00pm. Wanda will be dearly missed and always remembered. She built a legacy that will continue to live.
