Wellington Claude Valentine

Wellington Claude Valentine was born in Albuquerque, NM on June 6, 1953, to parents Joseph B. Valentine (deceased) and Jestine (Hammonds) Valentine. He was the eldest brother to sisters Linda J. Davenport and Debra A. Smith, and brother Wayne C. Valentine. Wellington graduated from Highland high school with full academic honors. In his youth and school days, Wellington stood out as a leader. He was president of the Highland High School Black Student Union (BSU), and actively promoted minority civil rights. 

Wellington proudly served in the U.S Army from 1973-1976 wherein he received a career ending honorable, medical discharged.

Wellington is survived by his children Nick, Joe, Wyshana and Jamiel Valentine. His legacy lives on through his 9 grandchildren Trey, Terrin, Santino, Jahlon, Jaelle, JoJo, Tyrese, Dhayven and Jaiden, 2 great grandchildren Jerimih and Emani.

He loved family gatherings, music, football and hanging out with his friends, Wellington would make daily calls to his mother and frequent calls to family and friends to make sure everyone was okay, he had a considerate, kind, and generous nature that you couldn’t help but enjoy. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.

His funeral service is scheduled for October 2, 2024, at Strong Thorne Mortuary, located at 1100 Coal Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM, beginning at 11:00 AM. The service will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and the community to pay their respects and celebrate Wellington’s life. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Fairview Memorial Park, with interment taking place at 12:00 PM at 700 Yale Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM.