Jerry E. Valdez's Obituary
Jerry E. Valdez, age 70, passed away peacefully at home in Salt Lake City on August 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 5, 1954, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Veronica C. Valdez. Jerry was a devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Jerry grew up in the Salt Lake area, where he shined shoes, delivered newspapers, and later worked many years in construction, and later finished his career by making countertops. His mother, Veronica, instilled in him and his siblings the importance of family and love—values that Jerry carried throughout his life. The youngest of five children, Jerry shared a close bond with his brothers David, Larry, and Willie, and his sister Ilene, his “twin born a year apart.”
In 1970, Jerry met Alice, and together they had four daughters: Jeri Ann, Veronica, Diane, and Fauna. Later, he met the love of his life, Vanesa, and together they shared 46 wonderful years of marriage. They were blessed with two more children, Brandy and Jerry Jr., and created countless cherished memories together. Jerry and Vanesa also adopted three children—Marcelino, Valencia, and Melia—completing their family of nine children. Their children blessed them with 17 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to Jerry’s life.
Jerry was a proud and playful grandfather, always ready to take his grandkids on special outings to the Nickelcade, followed by lunch at Arctic Circle, while mom stayed home to get a break. He loved evenings at the drive-in movie theater, where he packed dinners for his family and even shared meals with security staff on Sunday nights. Known for his green thumb, Jerry could revive almost any plant and took pride in nurturing his garden. He also created a family tradition of giving unique, meaningful nicknames to his children and grandchildren.
Outside of family, Jerry had a passion for his 1969 Chevy Impala. Every Sunday, after attending church, he would take a drive and stop at the cemetery to visit loved ones. He enjoyed bike rides, working in his yard, and spending time outdoors. Though he often pretended to be “grumpy Grandpa,” his humor, sarcasm, and laughter made him the heart of every gathering.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Vanesa; his children Jeri Ann, Veronica, Brandy (Mack), Jerry Jr., Marcelino (Jenni), Valencia (Malik), and Melia; his sister Ilene; his brother Willie; and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Veronica; daughters Diane and Fauna; grandson Valentino; brothers Larry and David; and many other dear aunts, uncles, cousins, and loved ones.
A viewing will be held at Neil O’Donnell Funeral Home on Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 6:00–7:00 p.m., followed by the Rosary from 7:00–8:00 p.m.
A viewing and funeral service will take place at Neil O’Donnell on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 275 U Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84103. Family and friends who loved Jerry are invited to attend.
Following the interment, we will celebrate Jerry’s life in the way he would have wanted—by watching the children play and enjoying time together. Please join us at Legacy Park, 1140 W 1100 N, North Salt Lake, Utah 84054, immediately after the cemetery service. This gathering will be an opportunity to share stories, laughter, tears, and treasured memories.
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