Alicia Valdez Rivas

Alicia Valdez Rivas, 72, of Wauchula, Florida, passed away on February 14th, surrounded by the love she so freely gave throughout her life. Alicia was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend whose servant’s heart touched countless lives. Alicia dedicated many years of service to others, working in Food Service for the Hardee County School District before retiring, and as a longtime employee of Walmart in Wauchula. She was a faithful member and volunteer at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, where she generously gave of her time and heart. Known for her servant’s spirit, Alicia devoted countless hours to helping members of the Hardee County community. She was always present to cheer on her loved ones at sporting events, school activities, and community gatherings. She cherished time with her family, especially traveling together on joyful road trips filled with laughter. Alicia brought light wherever she went. Her laughter was contagious, her compassion unwavering, and her faith in Jesus was the foundation of her life. She was an extraordinarily caring and hardworking woman who lived with grace, humility, and love. Her legacy of faith, service, and devotion will live on forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Ramon and Juanita Valdez; her brothers, Christobal Lopez, Paul Valdez, and Armando Valdez; and her great-granddaughter, Delyza McDonald. Alicia is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Roberto Rivas Sr., of Wauchula, Florida. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and unconditional love. She is also survived by her brothers: Rudy Valdez (Norma) of Indiana; Gilbert Valdez (Delia), Arturo Valdez (Maria), Joe Valdez, and Elias Valdez, all of Florida. Her sisters include Maria Cabrera; Melba Rodriguez (David); Rebecca Linarez (Mauro); and Kathy Martinez (Ernesto), all of Florida. Alicia was a proud and devoted mother to her sons: Roberto Rivas Jr. (Odella), Ray Rivas (Kristen), and Ruben Rivas (Jamie), all of Florida. She leaves behind a treasured legacy through her grandchildren: Robert Jordan Hill (Ashley) of Texas; Roberto Christopher Rivas (Haley), Rubi Hooks (Andrew), Ramzi Rivas (Seirra Perez), Romi Rivas (Deontae McDonald), Ryan Rivas, Ross Rivas, Ryder Rivas, Reese Rivas, Rolland Rivas, and Rebecca Rivas, all of Florida. Her joy multiplied through her great-grandchildren: Raiden Hill, Ryder Hill, Audrina Hill, Alana Hill, Amari Hooks, Aria Hooks, Armani Hooks, Amir Hooks, Rori Rivas, Remi Rivas, Riplei Rivas, Raegan Rivas, and Deilani McDonald. She is also lovingly remembered by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members whose lives she enriched with kindness and warmth. A funeral service will be held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Wauchula, Florida, on Friday, February 27th at 10:00. A private graveside service will follow at a later date.

Alicia Valdez Rivas

September 3, 1953 - February 14, 2026