Mother Consuelo Valdez Pinder was born on September 3, 1927, in Tampa, Florida, to the late Mr. Alejandro Valdez and the late Mrs. Edna Howard. Shortly after her birth, the family relocated to Key West, Florida, where the foundation of the Valdez (Jacko) family legacy began. Consuelo was the fifth-born child of this union, and all of her siblings preceded her in death.
Raised by a God-fearing mother who believed strongly in church attendance and service, Consuelo accepted Christ at an early age. She was baptized at Cornish Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, where she remained a faithful member throughout her life and graduated in 1947.
Consuelo was first united in marriage to Nelson Thompson, and from this union two children were born: Ronald and Lunette. She later married Leslie Pinder, Sr., affectionately known as “Shorty,” and together they welcomed three additional children: Keith, Aly, and Yasmin. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leslie Pinder, Sr., in 1994, and her sons Aly Pinder, Sr and Ronald Thompson.
A devoted servant of the Lord, Mother Consuelo faithfully attended Cornish Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church for many decades. She served on the Women’s Home and Overseas Missionary Society and remained committed to her church until the very end. She could always be found in her favorite seat, singing praises and greeting everyone with her warm, welcoming smile.
Following graduation, Consuelo began her working career at the Naval Base Galley. She later became a devoted caregiver to the Einhorn family, lovingly caring for Betty Einhorn until her passing and assisting with the care of Rose Einhorn until her demise. Alongside her sister Maximina, she also worked diligently at B’nai Zion Church, serving the Jewish community in the kitchen with the same dedication, kindness, and zeal she applied to all areas of her life.
Affectionately known as “Ms. Connie,” she was a loving mother, loyal friend, devoted grandmother and great-grandmother, caring family member, and proudly known as “The Mother of Robert Gabriel Apartments,” where she nurtured and looked after everyone. The community also knew her for her famous souse and boiled fish—meals prepared with love that drew neighbors and friends from near and far whenever she was able.
Mother Consuelo welcomed the New Year of 2026 with her customary joy and radiant smile, surrounded by loved ones. On Friday, January 2, 2026, at 5:14 a.m., she peacefully answered God’s call and entered eternal rest, gently drifting into heaven while holding the Master’s hand.
She leaves to cherish her precious memories and mourn her loss her loving children: Lunette (Floyd, deceased) Munnings, Keith (Gail) Pinder, and Yasmin Pinder; her eleven grandchildren: Dulcinea, Anjanette (Mark), Kawana (Frank), Don Jr. (deceased), Kenya, Aly Jr. (Kathleen), Christina (David), Ambiance, Kimolin, Brian (Emilie), and Nadia; fifteen great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; her daughter-in-law Phyllis; and a host of extended family members, church family, and dear friends.
She also leaves behind several very special friends and cherished porch companions—Desiree Barnes, Marc Multy, Rita Mobley, Lurleane Edgecombe, and Linda Freeman—who shared laughter, stories, and fellowship with her through countless moments of joy. THE PORCH at 6A Whitehead Street will never be the same.
Mother Consuelo Valdez Pinder lived a full and faithful life. Though she will be deeply missed, her love, service, and legacy will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew her.