Michelina “Mickey” Valinis (nee Sirianni) beloved wife of John, passed into eternal life peacefully with her children by her side on July 20, 2023.
Mickey was born to Filippo and Orsola Sirianni in Soveria Mannelli, a small mountain town in Calabria, Italy. Their small family was separated after Filippo travelled to the United States and World War II began before Mickey and her Mother could join him. Mickey suffered the terrors of war, including the untimely death of her Mother and subsequent deaths of her Grandmothers. Even amidst that sadness, Mickey found joy in the love of her many Italian cousins to whom she remained devoted throughout her life even across multiple continents. Alone, at the age of nine, Mickey was finally able to sail to the United States and reunite with her Father, who had settled in Chestnut Hill. Here, Mickey’s life found abundant joy. Raised by her Father and beloved Zizi and Zio (Concetta and Frank Bonacci), Mickey was surrounded by loving family with Sirianni, Pascuzzi, Coppola and Neill cousins who have always embraced her in their love.
Mickey’s joy only grew as she met and married the love of her life, John. In their over fifty seven years of marriage, Mickey and John enjoyed being surrounded by their many friends both in Chestnut Hill and Sea Isle City. They also basked in the abundant love of their family, especially their children Maria (Michael) and Jay (Susie) and grandchildren Brendan, Colin (Sarah), Meghan, Joseph and Owen.
Throughout her life, Mickey formed deep and lifelong connections. She was the God sent glue bonding her family, her friends and even her neighbors on Highland Avenue. Mickey welcomed all to her home hosting and organizing dinners, barbeques, visits to the shore, block parties, card parties and caroling parties. Simply stated, Mickey was a joy. She was truly and deeply beloved by all and will be greatly missed.
A visitation will be held Saturday, July 29, 2023, 9:30AM followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00AM at Our Mother of Consolation Church, 9 E. Chestnut Hill Ave., Phila., PA 19118.
