Alva Mae (Martin) Valentine passed away at home surrounded by her family on Wednesday, June 8, 2016. She was born on August 31, 1931 in Bulloch County, Georgia in the community of Nevils and was the youngest daughter of Lawson and Vaden Martin. Alva graduated from Statesboro High School at the age of 16 and moved to Jacksonville in 1947 to attend Massey Business School. There she met her life companion Charles Valentine and they were married in August of 1950 in the Statesboro Primitive Baptist Church. They enjoyed 65 years together and lived all of their married life in the Arlington section of Jacksonville. Alva worked for GMAC for a few years but retired from the Duval County School Board in 1992, with more than 27 years of service. She served as school secretary in several schools over the years, retiring from Arlington Middle School. Alva and Charlie enjoyed traveling extensively in their motor home and were members of the Florida Ramblers motor home club. Alva was touched by the Lord when she was 12 years of age and committed her life to Jesus for the rest of her life, and taught her children and grandchildren the love of Christ by example. She was known by all for her great love and hospitality. She was Mama to three children: Cheri (Richard) Toban, Marty Valentine, and Julie (Jaimy) Barry. Alva and Charlie were also blessed with 12 grandchildren: Patrick Toban, Katie Beth (Vlad) Tadal, Logan and Kelsey Valentine; David, Mark, Paige, Stephen, Joy, Grace, Faith, and Hope Barry. She was preceded in death by her sister, Althea M. Jones. "Aunt Alva Mae" was also loved by several cousins, nieces and nephews. Alva and Charlie moved to live with Julie and Jamie in 2013 and lived with them until her recent passing. They have been members of Arlington Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) since 1966 where they both served as elders in addition to other church responsibilities. Visitation will be at Arlington Park Funeral Home located at 6920 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32211, on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with the funeral service being held at Arlington Christian Church at 8075 Lone Star Road on Wednesday, June 15, 2016 at 11:00 AM; burial will be at Arlington Park Cemetery, co-located at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations may be made in her name to Arlington Christian Church (DOC) or Community Hospice of NE Florida.