Mr. Jerry JJ Valentine

The world has lost one of its brightest lights. You may have known him as Jerry, J.J., or simply J—but if you knew him, you knew just how special he was. If you were his friend, he would drop everything to help you, no questions asked. He wasn’t always sweet or soft-spoken. He spoke his truth, often bluntly, but always with love. He gave the kind of advice that stuck with you—honest, direct, and wise. If you weren’t ready for the truth, you’d best steer clear. But even in those moments, he was the very best. People called him amazing, hilarious, empathetic, and genuine. And they weren’t wrong. His wife, Renee (46): He knew exactly what I meant when I said, “I hate people.” He drove every trip—not because I couldn’t, but because he knew I’d rather not. With him, I was safe. I could be 100% myself. He was, and always will be, my True North. His daughter, Maya (10): “He was so funny and made the best jokes. His chicken was amazing—and everything he grilled was so good.” His daughter, Zoe (10): “He always loved his family members. He was funny and the food he made always tasted good.” His son, Benji (20): “He was funny and kind, and always someone I knew that I could talk to whenever, even if it was something as simple as video games. I wish I could have spent more time with him, but I’ll always treasure the time that we did spend together.” His son, Bradley (28): “Losing him on my birthday will forever change me. He fought for me to be seen for who I am.” The family who will miss him forever: His son, Daniel Valentine (25); his grandmother, Catherine Valentine; his father, Jerry E. Valentine, his sister, Renee France; his brothers, Joshua and Jason Valentine, and Audrady Valentine-Garland, his former wife and mother of his eldest children. Things he loved: His family, his closest friends, cigars, Formula 1 racing, his two favorite movies (O Brother, Where Art Thou and Lord of the Rings), Firefly, LEGO, video games, and watching reality trash TV on the couch with his wife. There are far too many family members and close friends to name, and if you're not mentioned, Please don’t take it as a slight. Everyone will miss him.

Tributes

Mr. Jerry JJ Valentine

June 23, 1975 - April 14, 2025