James Ricardo Valdez

James Ricardo Valdez James Ricardo Valdez, of Avondale, AZ, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2024 at the age of 52 after a year long bout with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends. James was born in Shirley, New York on January 28, 1972 and was raised by his parents, James Ervin Valdez and Eartha Lee Valdez. James’ mother passed away when James was 10 years old, and so James was raised by his father, living in New York, Las Vegas, Nevada and finally settling in Arizona. James grew to be a well-rounded athlete with a passion for basketball, football, bowling, and golf. In addition to being an athlete, James excelled in academics, especially in math and statistics. James attended high school in Las Vegas and several Phoenix area high schools, graduating high school in Phoenix, AZ. 

James began his professional career in telecommunications working for Zacson Corporation. Later, James would embark on a long and successful career in Property & Casualty Insurance, working for Progressive, USAA, American Family and Amica Insurance all in the Phoenix area. While working at Progressive Insurance, James became a parent to his daughter, Jenae. James loved supporting Jenae at cheer competitions/games and was equally proud as Jenae would continue her college education after high school. Most recently, James was a bus operator for the City of Phoenix / Transdev and found his role to be most rewarding. Throughout his day-to-day job duties, James loved being able to connect with countless Phoenicians in the city he loved so very much, Phoenix, Arizona. 

James had an infectious personality that was of optimism. James loved his family and his friends alike. A big sports fan, James was an avid New York Giants, Knicks, Yankees, and Mets fan, in addition to rooting for local Arizona teams. James was also known for his comedic sense of humor; his ability to create laughter was second nature. James had a knack for sharing anything he knew that could help someone become better. This was oftentimes seen on the golf course or the bowling alley where James loved to pass tips to anyone that would listen. 

James is survived by his daughter, Jenae; his aunts Theresa Anderson, Brenda Valdez, Kathy Palmer Valdez; his cousins Bridgett, Natasha, Karin, Valerie, Gene Valdez III, Tiana, Danielle, Allison, Aaron, Charles, Brian, Kyle, Sean, and Jarett, as well as numerous loving friends. 

A memorial service & reception will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 4:30pm at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018