Valerie Yvonne

Martinez

Valerie Yvonne Martinez, age 27, of Southwest City, Missouri, departed this life on Friday evening, July 10, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family.

She entered this life on April 29, 1999, in Laredo, Texas, born to Alicia Martinez and David Molina. Valerie was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, aunt, and friend whose life brought warmth and light to all who knew her. She moved to Southwest City at the age of two and spent her life in the care and company of those who loved her most. Though her time on earth was far too brief, she left behind a legacy of love, strength, and tenderness that will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Valerie attended College View State School in Joplin, Missouri, where she was known for her gentle spirit and her bright presence. She carried herself with a sweetness that touched others deeply, and will be remembered as happy, angelic, kind and a spirit of a warrior. Her love of music was one of the many beautiful parts of her personality, and it reflected the grace and feeling she brought into the lives of others.

She is survived by her parents, Alicia Martinez and David Molina; her seven siblings, Jackie Martinez, Liza Martinez, Michelle Molina, Vanessa Martinez, David Molina, Jr., Demetrio Molina, and Diego Molina; twelve nieces and nephews; her maternal grandmother, Manuela Martinez; as well as a host of other family members and friends who will deeply miss her.

Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church in Noel, Missouri, with Father Charles Dunn officiating.  Burial will follow at Southwest City Cemetery.  Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are David Molina, Jr., Diego Molina, Demetrio Molina, Angel Moreno, Ricky Molina and William Carmona.  The family will gather for a time of visitation on Thursday afternoon from 2-4:00 p.m. at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.  Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.