Valeria Darlene Stevens

Valeria Darlene Stevens, 67, of Asbury Park, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on August 31, 2026.

Born on March 18, 1959, in North Carolina, Valeria was the beloved daughter of Sarah Stevens and Ethelle Stevens. She spent most of her life in New Jersey, where she devoted herself to her family, faith, and community.

As a single mother, Valeria worked tirelessly while raising her children and providing them with love, guidance, and support. During her years in Elizabeth, New Jersey, she balanced the responsibilities of work and motherhood while maintaining a passion for physical fitness and aesthetics. Gifted with a beautiful singing voice, she found joy in praising God as a member of her church choir.

Later in life, Valeria made her home in Asbury Park, where she continued to care for her family and remained active in her faith. She enjoyed spending time with close friends, attending church services, and working in housekeeping and meal services. Her life was rooted in kindness, compassion, and an unwavering trust in God.

Valeria found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She loved butterflies, sunflowers, chocolate ice cream, cake, and a comforting plate of mashed potatoes. Caring for her plants and her beloved cat, China, brought her great joy. Though she treasured time spent with family and friends, she was equally content in quiet moments, comforted by her faith and the knowledge that God was always by her side.

A true homebody at heart, Valeria enjoyed listening to gospel music, decorating her home, reading God's Word, and reflecting on sermons. Above all, she cherished time with her grandson, Kah'Sim, affectionately known as her "bodyguard." On special occasions, she delighted in dressing elegantly and adorning herself with beautiful jewelry and clothing, reflecting her unique sense of style.

Valeria leaves behind to cherish her memory her son, Brian Keith Latimore; her daughters, Ieshia Elizabeth Stevens, Natashia Stevens, and Kadiyah Kathleen Stevens; her grandsons, Jacques Maurice Latimore and Kah'Sim James Josiah Bland; her sisters, Caroline, Debrah, Terry, and Jacqueline; and her brothers, Ethelle Stevens Jr. and Stevie Stevens, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Today, we honor Valeria for her love of God, her authentic and unashamed praise, her gentle spirit, kindness, and nonjudgmental nature. She will be remembered for her selfless support of those she loved, her strength, sense of humor, unique style, and enduring faith. Though no longer physically present, her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." — John 15:13

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Triumphant Life Church, 500 Malterer Avenue, Oceanport, New Jersey 07757.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to everyone who has offered love, prayers, support, and encouragement during this difficult time. Thank you for every kind word, every embrace, and every expression of compassion. Your presence and support have been a tremendous blessing, and the family is sincerely grateful.

Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com