Diana Rivera Vallellanes-Van Alstyne

Diana Rivera Vallellanes-Van Alstyne, age 95, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026.

Born in Ponce, Diana moved to NYC mid1940's before marrying and moving to West Point. She made her way to Jersey City in the 1960's after the ending of her marriage, she would then meet the love of her life and spent the majority of her life living in Jersey City Heights. In 2000 she lost her love and moved to Hoboken a few years later, she lived there before joining her daughter in Delray Beach, FL in 2021. She was known for her warm spirit, and her deep faith. A devoted Catholic, she lived a life grounded in gratitude.

Diana was preceded in death by her children, Herman C. Vallellanes, Peggy Vallellanes, and Cynthia Vallellanes-LeFurge; her son-in-law, Fernando Melendez; and other beloved family members who went before her, including her love Alfred H Van Alstyne.

She is lovingly survived by her daughter Sr. Maria Magdalena, son, Richard Vallellanes,and daughter in-law Charlotte, daughter, Deborah Melendez, son, Aloysius Vallellanes, daughter in law Cherri Vallellanes, son, Alfred Van Alstyne daughter in law Vita Van Alstyne, and daughter Kristine Van Alstyne. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Jason Owen, Timothy Vallellanes, Sam Vallellanes, Vanessa Melendez Chiavaroli, Adam Melendez, Vincent Vallellanes, Victoria Vallellanes, Megan Van Alstyne, and Brian Van Alstyne. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy and pride.

Diana embraced life's simple pleasures. She loved music and dancing, enjoyed sitting with a cup of coffee while people-watching, and could spend hours walking and appreciating the world around her. She found peace and happiness in drawing, being outdoors, and spending time with those she loved. Her warmth, humor, and appreciation for life's everyday moments left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate Diana's life. Visitation will be held at Riotto Funeral Home, 3205 Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, New Jersey. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Paul of the Cross Church. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Diana's legacy of faith, love, and resilience will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23