United States Army Retired Sergeant First Class and Veterans advocate John R Valis Jr. (60) died Saturday January 12th, 2019 at UMass Hospital in Worcester. John was the son of John R. Valis Sr. and Eleanor (Benoit) Brennan.

John is survived by his mother, Eleanor (Benoit) Brennan and her husband Richard of Worcester. His wife of 24 years, Susan (Tolman) Valis and her daughter Michelle Mercier. His two sons James A Valis and his wife Lori and their daughters Elena & Jenna of Hopkinton, John R. Valis III and his wife Stephanie of Burnaby, BC. His sister Donna Valis of Worcester, his niece Andrea Harmon of Worcester, and his nephew Paul Harmon and his wife Sarah and daughter Daphne of Randolph. His sister Brenda DaSilva of Millbury, his brother Mark Valis of Charlton and their Mother Nilda Valis of Millbury. John is predeceased by his father, John R Valis Sr. of Millbury.

Born and raised in Worcester, MA, John served honorably in the United States Army earning numerous commendations during his highly decorated 24 years of service including his role as a recruiter for the Army National Guard. In addition to his military service, John was desirous to continue his education earning his Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Criminal Justice from Suffield University.

John dedicated his life to his country as well as his fellow veterans. Most recently, John worked for Veterans Inc of Worcester, MA, the largest provider of support services to veterans and their families. John believed in and was passionate to help veterans rebuild their lives, end homelessness, regain self sufficiency and ultimately reconnect with their family, friends and community.

Prior to Veterans Inc., John was employed with Adams & Associates in Indiana. During his tenure and in partnership with the US Department of Labor, John worked to help young people earn their high school diploma or GED, learn a career, attend college and provide assistance in finding and keeping successful employment.

In addition to his devotion to his country, helping veterans and young students, John’s pride and joy was his two granddaughters. He loved spending time with them and watching them grow.

Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Tuesday, January 15^th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.   His funeral will be held Wednesday, January 16^th at the funeral home at 10 am.  Burial with military honors will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.