Thomas Martin Valenta

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved father and grandpa Thomas Martin Valenta, 85, who died at home on September 10, 2024. We are comforted to know that Tom is now once again united with the love of his life, Ann Mason Bailey Valenta, who preceded him in death in December 2022. Tom and Ann met in 1958 when they both worked for Seward Luggage in Petersburg. Tom was an IBM 403 Accounting Machine operator and Ann a bookkeeper. Ann and Tom married on March 21, 1959 in the home of the minister of the Newville United Methodist Church. They were happily married for 63 years. 

Tom leaves behind a son, Thomas Martin Valenta, Jr. (Marty), daughter-in-law, Kelly Hunter Valenta, and two grandchildren, Thomas Martin Valenta, III (Trey) and Kayla Renae Valenta, of Glen Allen, Virginia. Tom also leaves behind a brother Harry Valenta, sister-in-law LeLe Valenta, a sister, Pat O’Berry, brother-in-law Obie O’Berry, and several nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his eldest brother Bobby Valenta. 

Tom was born in Petersburg, Virginia in 1939 to loving parents Annie Nemecek Valenta and Joseph Frank Valenta, both of whom preceded him in death. He was a 1956 graduate of Saint Joseph Catholic High School in Petersburg, Virginia. Tom served our country on active duty with the United States Army from 1963 to 1965. Tom had a long career as a computer data processor at Virginia Linen and Roper Brothers. 

Tom was a kind, gentle soul who loved his family above all else. Tom loved playing golf, particularly with his son and granddaughter. He also loved deer hunting, long drives in the country and spending time with family. 

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at Southlawn Memorial Park, 1911 Birdsong Rd, S. Prince George, Virginia 23805. A memorial visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Monday September 16, 2024 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes, 2033 Boulevard Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society in support of the Richmond Cattle Baron’s Ball fundraiser event (society event key VXBRHZ). Donations can be made online at https://richmondcattlebaronsball.org/contact/ or mailed to American Cancer Society ATTN: Kathy Blencowe 4405 Cox Road, Suite 110, Glen Allen, VA 23060.