Obituary for Oscar Valdes

Oscar Valdes, age 93, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, in Murphy, North Carolina, surrounded by his loving daughters.

Oscar was born on January 17, 1932, in Manhattan, New York, to Francisco Valdes and Isabel Acosta Pagés. In 1950, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served with the 1st Cavalry Division during the Korean War. He was wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart before receiving an honorable discharge in 1953.

Later that year, on July 18, 1953, he married the love of his life, Nancy. The couple lived in Florida, where Oscar built a distinguished career, retiring from the U.S. Postal Service after more than 30 years of service, as well as from the Florida National Guard with over 20 years of dedication.

Oscar was an avid stamp collector and a proud Mason. A true altruist, he generously gave his time and resources to charitable organizations such as St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Ronald McDonald House, and the Shriners. He and Nancy fell in love with the mountains of North Carolina and relocated to Murphy in 1999, where he continued his lifelong commitment to service through Meals on Wheels, and a member and Sergeant of the Arms American Legion Post #96 Honor Guard.

In addition to his parents, Isabel Acosta, Francisco Valdes, and stepfather Pastor Pagés, Oscar was preceded in death by his beloved wife Nancy; his daughter, Carmen Gina Carlino; his granddaughter, Lauren Ors; and his sisters, Evelia Salabarría and Rosa León.

He is survived by his daughters, Nancy Herrera (Ruben) of Tampa, Barbara Thorne of Tampa, Gloria Scarinci (Larry) of Blairsville and Tina Valdez of Tampa; nine grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 11 am, Monday, October 13, 2025 at Myrtle Hill Cemetery in Tampa, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to do so may donate to a charity of their choosing.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.