Nieves Marie Machado Valdes

Nieves Maria Machado Valdes, born on February 5th, 1939, in Guane Pinar del Rio Cuba, was sent to her eternal home on May 22, 2025. Maruca (Maru), as she was lovingly called, was a radiant presence in the lives of all who had the honor of knowing her. Her time on this earth was characterized by love, compassion, and steadfast faith in God. Her departure has created a profound emptiness in the hearts of her family, friends, and countless others whose lives she influenced. We encourage you to cherish her memory for the vibrant life she led rather than focusing on the decline of her health or the circumstances of her passing.Maru is survived by her sister, Primitiva, and her children: Roberto, along with his wife Ana Cristina, and Maria, with her husband Eric. She was a beloved Abuelita to Angelia and her partner Brook, Roberto and his wife Vianney, Andy and his wife Anna, Marisol and her husband Joe, Nathan, and Adrian. Additionally, she held the title of cherished Bisabuela to Grecia and Riomar.Maru grew up in the country side of Cuba. Her childhood was full of hard work but also adventure.

Maru fell in love in her early 20's to Roberto Mendez. For those that knew Maru well, Roberto had to really work to win over her heart. Their love story was one of patience and perseverance, marked by the tender moments they shared and the challenges they overcame together. They got married on August 13th, 1959. Roberto's dedication and love for Maru was unwavering, and he became her steadfast partner, standing by her side through life's ups and downs. Together, they built a life filled with warmth, laughter, and a deep sense of family.

They escaped Cuba in 1968 and moved to Spain for several months before ending up calling Puerto Rico home.

Throughout their marriage, Maru and Roberto both worked hard to cultivate a loving home, filled with the aroma of Cuban flare. Their home was well known for sounds of lively conversations and the smell of Maru’s amazing dishes. Their door was always open to family and friends, creating a haven of love, comfort and a cup of coffee that extended to everyone who entered. Those who were lucky enough to have known Maru will forever treasure her lively and free-spirited nature, her passion for dancing, her dreams of travel, and her unwavering decision to avoid learning how to drive. Her delicious cooking and the joy she spread in any gathering will not be forgotten. Her grandchildren fondly recall the playful pranks she pulled and the immense love she shared. Maru possessed a unique talent for bringing smiles and laughter to others, leaving an enduring impression on everyone she encountered.

In lieu of flowers the family would like to celebrate the life of Nieves by donating in her memory to Unto, a ministry helping others living in hard-to-reach places like Cuba have access to better lives unto.com/NievesMariaMachadoValdes

The Celebration of Life service to honor the life of Nieves Maria Machado Valdes will be held on June 1, 2025, at Beckman-Williamson Funeral Home,

5400 Village Dr, Rockledge, FL 32955, Viewing - 12:30 - 1:00, Service - 1:00

Burial to follow

Riverview Memorial Gardens Cemetery

3751 N Cocoa Blvd, Cocoa, FL 32926

Burial- 3:00