Obituary of Niataja Valentine Deering
Niataja Valentine Deering was born on September 13, 1931, in Greentown, West Virginia, to the late Jerome and Jewell Valentine. On Sunday, December 15, 2024, Niataja passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love and cherished memories.
Niataja embraced faith early in her life, joining her local church as a child. Her spiritual foundation and dedication carried her through the years, from her active participation in church activities to the relationships she nurtured within her community. After graduating high school at the remarkable age of 15, she pursued her education with unwavering determination. Niataja earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Hampton University in Virginia and, a year later, a Master's Degree from Springfield College in Massachusetts. Her journey as an educator began in Henderson, North Carolina, where she made a lasting impact on her students.
In 1957, Niataja married Nathan Deering, and together they built a beautiful life in Plainfield, New Jersey. Their union brought forth three children: Cheryl Lynn, Eric Norman, and Scott Earl, who remained the center of her world.
Niataja was a vibrant and integral part of her community. She joined the United Church of Christ – Congregational in Plainfield in the late 1960s, contributing as a Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School storyteller, and committee chair. She also brought her creative flair to life as a member of the Rainbow Experience, a theatrical group that delighted audiences with plays celebrating local culture.
Professionally, Niataja dedicated 30 years to the South Plainfield Public School System, where she was a beloved teacher, known for her ability to connect with her students and her enthusiasm for learning. She retired in 1990, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, knowledge, and inspiration.
Beyond her professional and community contributions, Niataja was celebrated for her warmth and charisma. A true conversationalist, she had a gift for making every person feel valued, whether in a casual chat or a deep discussion. Her knack for storytelling was legendary—she could weave humor, wisdom, and joy into any tale, leaving her listeners captivated and smiling. Her humor was as boundless as her compassion, and her laughter was a gift to all who knew her.
Niataja’s culinary skills were second to none. Her kitchen was a place of connection, where delicious meals and heartfelt stories were shared. Her cooking was a reflection of her love—comforting, generous, and unforgettable.
In retirement, Niataja reveled in the joys of travel, exploring the world through cruises and visits to various countries. Her adventures were a testament to her curious spirit and zest for life.
Niataja was preceded in death by her younger brother, Jerome Valentine. She leaves behind a devoted family who will forever treasure her memory: her daughter, Cheryl Deering of Plainfield, New Jersey; sons, Eric (Chiquita) Deering of Somerset, New Jersey, and Scott (Michelle) Deering of Apex, North Carolina; granddaughters, Faith and Cassandra; her sisters-in-law, Jerelene Deering Wells and Arnette Deering of Los Angeles, California, and Evelyn (Joe) Jackson of North Brunswick, New Jersey; brother-in-law, Dennis Deering of Cambria Heights, New York; and countless nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who were touched by her kindness and light.
A visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Monday, December 23rd, 2024, at United Church of Christ - Congregational, 220 West 7th Street, Plainfield, NJ. An Omega Omega Ceremony will follow the visitation from 11:00 am to 11:30 am. A funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. She will be laid to rest at Franklin Memorial Park, 1800 Rt. 27 North Brunswick, NJ.
Niataja’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and dedication. She lived a life filled with purpose, generosity, and grace, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
