Teresa Valdes

August 29, 1934 – September 18, 2025

Teresa Valdes — lovingly known as Mom, Nana, Tellita and Aunt Terry — passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, at the age of 91.

Born in Miami, Florida on August 29, 1934, to Carlos Santos y Valencia and Carmen Menendez Bruno, Terry’s life journey took her from the vibrant streets of Miami to Havana, Cuba, and later to West Palm Beach, Florida. She attended Palm Beach High School and continued her education at the University of Havana.

Terry was a woman of unmistakable spirit — fun, feisty, loving, witty, smart, and fiercely independent. She had a larger-than-life personality and a bold irreverence that made her unforgettable. Known as the “Cool Mom” long before it was a thing, she brought energy and laughter to every room she entered. Everyone she met was drawn to her warmth and wit, and she made friends easily — often preferring the company of her children’s friends in later years because, as she famously said, she didn’t want to be around “old people.”

She had a deep love for both animals and children — always the first to comfort and nurture. Her compassion and playful energy created lasting memories for those fortunate enough to know her.

Terry was predeceased by her beloved parents, her son Carl and her former husband and father of her children, J. John Goodman, M.D.

She is survived by her devoted children, her daughter, Jody Goodman Blumberg (Joel) of Juno Beach, Florida and her son Robert Goodman (Brady) of West Palm Beach, Florida, as well as her beloved grandson, Benjamin Blumberg of Washington, D.C. They were the pride and joy of her life, and she cherished them with all her heart.

She also leaves behind her loving niece and nephew, Ani Silva and Andres Ceberio, together with many cousins and dear friends — all of whom will remember her bright spirit and unique humor.

A celebration of life ceremony will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Terry’s honor to the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in West Palm Beach, Florida — a cause close to her heart. https://peggyadams.org/help/donate/#honor-memorial or to Trustbridge Hospice Care, in gratitude for the exceptional compassion and support they provided to her. https://trustbridge.com/give/

Her laughter, her stories, and her unmistakable spark will live on in all of us who loved her.