Margaret Valentine

Margaret (D’Amore) Valentine, 86, of New Britain, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family. Born on October 24, 1939, she was the beloved daughter of Eugene and Geneva D’Amore and a lifelong resident of the city she proudly called home.

In her younger years Margaret loved dance, especially ballet, a grace she carried with her throughout her life. She later worked at Stanley Works in New Britain from 1978 until retiring in 2007. To everyone who knew her she was simply “Nana.” Her home was always open and her heart even more so. She welcomed people without judgment, gave comfort when it was needed most, and loved fiercely and unconditionally. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy and the center of her world.

Margaret is survived by her daughter Shelly Valentine and her husband Christopher of New Britain; her beloved granddaughter Gabriella Nieva and her wife Biole of New Britain; her grandson Alexander Torres and his girlfriend Nina of Pompano Beach, Florida; great grandson Jayden Valentine of New Britain; granddaughter Samantha Estrada of St. Cloud, Florida, whom Margaret embraced and loved deeply as one of her own; and she leaves behind a bonus son, Abismael Rivera of New Britain, Gabriella’s father, who knew her as Mom from the day she came into his life when he was just sixteen years old. She is also survived by her sisters Dorothy Lenk and her husband Damon of Bristol and Lydia D’Amore of Bristol, as well as her in laws Mark and Grace Fiderio of Middletown.

Margaret also leaves behind her loyal dog Cody and her beloved “grandpuppies” Mia, Bentley, Chi Chi, and Benny, who brought her endless joy.

Mom, you were there for my first breath, and I was there for your last. A love like yours does not end with death. It becomes the quiet strength that carries us forward and the light that will forever guide us home. Until we meet again, you will always live in our hearts.

A celebration of Margaret’s life will take place at a later date.