Nancy Valentine

Nancy Valentine, 89, of White Plains, NY, died on Tuesday March 22 at St. John's Hospital in Yonkers. She was born on February 28, 1922 in Italy, in the village of L'Ami on the island of Lipari, in the province of Messina, Sicily, the daughter of Joseph Barbuto and Josephine Mollica. Nancy was predeceased by her beloved husband of 66 years, Joe, in 2008. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph and Patricia Valentine of Westfield, New Jersey; her son Donald Valentine of the Bronx; her daughter and son-in-law, Margie Riccardi and Ross O'Country of Elmsford, New York; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother, Anthony Barbuto of Red Bank, New Jersey and a sister, Ida DiMuro of Matthews, North Carolina. Known by many as a great cook, Nancy lived most of her life in the Bronx and was a resident of Colden Ave for over 60 years, where friends and family often gathered to enjoy her famous cooking. Nancy, easily recognized by her friendly and open personality, worked in retail sales at Gimbels Cross County. She was extremely passionate about life, human suffering, and social values. Nancy was well known for her lifelong love of opera and classical music. Known as 'Aunt Nancy' by legions of nieces, nephews and friends, she was considered by one and all to be the 'Grande Dame' of her family.