Valinda Almeida

Valinda Almeida, age 71, of St. Petersburg, passed away on November 16th, 2024. Valinda was born on an Air Force base during the Korean War. 

A writer her entire life, she graduated from Northwestern University with a Master’s Degree in Journalism. She was a newspaper reporter, editor, and travel writer. As a child and young adult Valinda wrote poetry and short stories. An avid student of culture and art she traveled the globe. Places visited include South Africa, China, Colombia, Venezuela, the French Alps, Spain, Portugal, London (where she saw Cats on stage), and several Caribbean Isles. 

Valinda moved to St. Petersburg 46 years ago with her beloved husband Ed. It ended up being their dream location after meeting in Massachusetts where they both grew up. They lived in Indiana, Chicago, and California while attending college and starting their careers.

Valinda leaves behind her loving husband Ed Almeida; pet dog Dorian; father, Walter Barnes; sisters Debra Hoover (Gregg), Nancy Barnes, Judy Johnson (Matt), and Sally Barnes; 3 nieces, a nephew, and a grand-nephew.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Jane Kinsella Barnes; and brother, Kevin Barnes. Her cremated remains will merge with the sea.