Patricia Ann Valdes

Patricia Ann (Tainter) Valdes, fondly known as Patti to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2025, in Mansfield, Missouri, after courageously living with Multiple Sclerosis for nearly 25 years. Born on March 19, 1962, in Crestwood, Missouri, Patti was known for her courage, selflessness, and generosity throughout her 63 years of life.

Patti was a 1980 graduate of Wellsville-Middletown High School in Wellsville, Missouri. She spent 20 years at Wick Outdoor Works before returning to school to earn her Associate's Degree. She went on to work as a paralegal, a role she greatly enjoyed, until her health forced her retirement.

Patti was married to Kenneth Huff Sr. until his passing in 2014. On December 14, 2016, she married Benone "B.J." Valdes Sr., who preceded her in death in 2024. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Dorothy (Klingeman) Tainter.

She is survived by her son, Kenny (Carin) Huff of Burnsville, Minnesota, and their sons, Elijah, Jacob, and Samuel; her daughter, Jaimie Huff of Mansfield, Missouri, and her son, Jaxon Hall; her sister, Mari (Harold) Eckler of Shelbyville, Missouri; and her brother, Quentin (Teresa) Tainter of Centralia, Missouri. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews whom she loved dearly.

Patti found joy in her garden and, later, in sewing and crafts. Many family and friends still treasure her handmade creations, which reflect her creativity and giving spirit. Those who knew her will remember her courage in the face of adversity, her selfless nature, and the love she showed to her family and friends.

Patti's legacy is one of love, strength, and perseverance. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now free of the struggles of MS, reunited with her loved ones, and at peace.

Her life will be celebrated in a private ceremony. Patti will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be held in the hearts of those who loved her.