Martha Catherine Valdez - Obituary

artha Catherine Valdez, 74, of Alexandria, Virginia, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025. Born on September 7, 1951, Martha devoted her life to caring for others, both in her personal life and throughout her long career as a psychiatric nurse. She served with compassion and dedication at Gallaudet University, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, and the Veterans Administration, touching countless lives with her gentle presence and deep empathy. Martha is survived by her loving husband, Joe Valdez; her children, Philip Ocheltree and Linda Lam; and her stepdaughter, Debbie Rowe. She was a proud grandmother to Hailey Ocheltree, Justin Ocheltree, Richard Stewart Jr., and Lily Cronin, as well as a beloved “grandma” to the family dog, Bunker. To those who knew her, Martha was a wonderful woman with a kind, giving heart—someone who always made space for others and offered warmth without hesitation. Viewing services will be held on Sunday, December 14, at Kalas Funeral Home, with visitation from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. A church service will follow on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11 a.m., with burial at 1 p.m. at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery. Martha’s legacy of love, generosity, and compassion will be forever cherished by her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her.