Luz Woofter - Obituary

uz, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, and nurse, passed away on October 28, 2023, at the age of 90. Luz was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob. Her life was a tapestry woven with love and kindness, even in the face of challenges. From the tender age of 8, she recounted stories of her family's constant relocations to escape the Japanese occupation of the Philippines during WWII. Her father, the town's Mayor at the time, became a person of interest, compelling him to evade the occupiers to protect his family. These early experiences shaped her resilience and compassion, leaving a profound legacy of courage. Luz earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1957 at Silliman University, becoming one of the pioneering Filipina nurses to venture to the US in the 60s. Throughout her nursing career spanning decades, Luz dedicated herself to caring for others. Her journey began at the Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, where she brought comfort to countless young children. In the 70s, in Washington DC, she continued her mission, working tirelessly in a private clinic. Her passion for helping others touched many lives until she retired at the age of 72. In retirement, Luz cherished time with her family, especially her husband, affectionately known as Uncle Bob, facing life's trials as she battled Parkinson's with quiet courage. She found joy in travel, savored good food, sought solace in gospel music, and generously supported charitable causes. She used walking both as a form of exercise and as an excuse to indulge in her passion for shopping. Affectionately known as Nanay (Mom) to all, she touched the lives of everyone she met. Luz is survived by her adult children: Ernest Valmonte, Eric Valmonte, and Elaine Valmonte-Tomek, her husband Lawrence Tomek, Jr., and her grandchildren Kayla & Kerick Valmonte. A memorial gathering to celebrate the life of Luz will take place on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, from 10 am until the start of the memorial service at 11 am at Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745-9424. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Parkinson’s Foundation.