WATERBURY- It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Rene Albert Valentine Jr., age 61, of Waterbury, shares the news of his peaceful passing on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Vitas at Saint Mary’s Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Rene was born on June 28, 1964, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the beloved son of the late Rene Valentine Sr., and Genoveva Irizarry. He spent most of his life in Waterbury and lived in Florida for only a decade, where he embraced new experiences and made lasting memories. Rene moved back to Waterbury to be closer to his beloved family when his health began to decline. Rene was a dedicated food prep worker in the hospitality industry. He cherished his time working at Lowe's in Florida and later at Big Y in Connecticut, where he made lasting connections and friendships. Though he was a private person, Rene had a generous spirit, always ready to lend a helping hand to his cousins and anyone in need. He was known for his warm heart and remarkable ability to bring smiles and laughter to those around him. He was a dog lover and enjoyed wrestling, gardening and doing landscape work for others.

Renee's laughter, kindness, and gentle spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Left to cherish and honor his memory are his siblings: Josephine Miranda and her husband, Israel Santiago, Vivian Ferrer and her husband, Tony, and Jacqueline Casiano and her husband, Julio. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family members and beloved friends.

Funeral Services for Mr. Valentine will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., when a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Todos Los Santos Parish, St Anne’s Church, 515 S. Main St, Waterbury. Those planning to attend are kindly asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will follow in New Pine Grove Cemetery. There are no calling hours. To honor Rene's memory and in lieu of flowers, his family would greatly appreciate donations to The American Cancer Society; https://donate.cancer.org/. Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT 06705, has been honored to assist the Valentine family during this most difficult time. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Rene to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.