I am so sorry for this unimaginable loss. Natalia and I have met when our boys began kindergarten in 2020 and continued our friendship ever since. It hurts me so much. Rest peacefully, angel.
With love,
Diana Yakubova

I first met Natalia at Yoga Teacher Training in 2013 at Sun and Moon Yoga Studio in Fairfax, VA.  That’s me in the grey tank on the right and Natalia in the white long sleeve T on the left. 

Our first day I chose to sit by her. For those of you that have the good fortune to be in her presence you will understand what drew me there. 

During that year of study, we became fast friends for two people who on the surface appear so different. I chose Natalia as my partner for the majority of our in class demonstrations and she was  the one I called to discuss homework as we read The Gita for the first time. 

After our graduation, we both began teaching with regularity at the studio in Fairfax, VA and subbed for each other when needed. I was honored she asked me to hold space for her while she was away on maternity leave and grateful to have her accept sitting in when I needed someone for my classes.  

For someone so tiny in stature, Natalia could command an entire room of people with just her sweet smile, her soft voice, and a glimmer in her eyes. 

However it’s her kindness that I always speak about. Her empathy and radiance of love is something everyone experienced who was within her light. She illuminated the world with a tenderness I will always cherish. 

When she would sub for me I would always hear from the students when I returned “she just has this presence…”. 

My response was always “I know” with a smile. 

With Love,  Val  ❤️

Natalia will always be remembered as a pure expression of Light. 
All who knew her forever will cherish the memories of time spent together. 
Her laughter, her smile,  her voice and her love for life will always stay with me. 
May the warm memories of the great love that Natalia had for her family help Victor, Philip and Lukas to find peace in their hearts.

i went looking for pictures of me and natalia. i found plenty of our kids together, like this one. but none of the two of us. and then i came across one that i instantly remembered she took of me and another friend. it was at my son’s birthday party, and i was busy being busy and not enjoying the experience. she came to me and insisted that i stop, and that she take a picture of me with my friend “because i bet you don’t have enough pictures of just you two”. so emblematic of her spirit - selfless, present to the moment, not just smart but WISE, and grounded in the importance of the little things. she was and is integral to my experience of early motherhood. she saved my life on days i felt like i just couldn’t do another hour at the playground, made me laugh until we cried, and reminded me not to take any of it too seriously, except the truly important things. her loss is devastating and immeasurable. i will always treasure the time we spent together and hold her in my heart.

La familia Miranda Carrasco nos unimos a distancia a la inesperada pérdida que embarga sus corazones. Víctor , Filip  y Lucas les mandamos un fuerte abrazo y les deseamos mucha Fortaleza.
 🙏🏼🕊️

Natalia worked at Virginia Hospital Center with me for four years. She worked up until the day she gave birth to both of her boys. I remember her coming to me to let me know that her water broke and needed to stop working for the day. I walked her upstairs to labor and delivery. She kept texting me to make sure we had a hand off for all of her patients. She had such passion for her family and her work as a speech therapist. She will be truly missed. Prayers and love go out to her family and friends. So sorry for your loss.

Victor and family, please accept my deepest condolences on this immeasurable loss! I have been  and will continue to pray for her eternal rest with God;  and  I pray that God  consoles and comforts you all.
Natalia is one of those rare gems that you come across once in a lifetime! She is kind, sweet,  strong, selfless, passionate, down-to-earth, and full of life! She leaves an indelible mark on all those who know her and we are better people for it! I thank God for the time I had with her. 
May her sweet soul rest in peace, Amen!

Querido Vic,
Gracias por compartir tan bonitas memorias. Que afortunado fuiste de compartir tu vida con una persona tan especial. Realmente admiro tu fortaleza y actitud tan positiva ante estos retos que te ha presentado la vida. Espero que pronto puedas volver a sonreir mientras tomas tu cafe y ves a los 'lobos' corretear a los tipos de la basura. Y yo se que tu vision de ser nuevamente feliz con tus pequenos ya esta en proceso de hacerse realidad. Te mandamos un muy fuerte abrazo.
Luis y Birgit

I met Natalia early in my career as a physical therapist at VHC after just moving to northern VA. My first impression of her was that she was a very skilled, precise, and no-nonsense clinician, but she also shared a lot of warmth and kindness toward all her patients and colleagues. She was a gracious host for many events at her home in Reston- from baby showers to clothing swaps, where she would donate the leftover clothing to a women’s shelter. It was in her home where I saw her personal side. She delighted in every aspect of her life and really sought to connect with her friends, offering a level of support and positivity that was one of a kind. My first son was born in the same month as Lucas, and the way she reached out to me and cheered me on as a new mom is something I will never forget. I didn’t keep in touch with her after her move to NY, but always remembered her so fondly and just smiled and knew how happy her life must be whenever I thought of her. My thoughts and prayers have been with her, her family, and close friends since hearing the news of the tragedy, especially her boys and husband. May her light and memories continue to bless all of you as you navigate this terrible loss. Sending all my love and support.

At such moments it's hard to find right words. I can't even imagine how painful these days are for Natalia's family. I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family.
We attanded to the same class in a primary school. Last year when we had something like a class reunion, she talked with us online and promised to visit Poland next summer and to meet with us. 
I still can't believe that  it will never happen.

Natalia trained me when I was hired at VHC and we became fast friends, especially as our families grew. I always remember our Thursday mornings exploring parks, libraries, and other family friendly spaces around northern Virginia. What a light you were to the hospital, your family and friends, and the community.  This is so shocking and I am holding you and your family in my prayers.

We never could meet, we were all looking forward to see us. So shocked and intens sad our family will need to miss you. We will keep you close to our hearts.

My family and I moved to Middle Village in early 2020.  Needless to say, due to Covid, we didn’t meet many friends in the neighborhood for a while. I met Natalia during the summer of '21 at the park; the first of many times I’d see her there. I didn’t realize it at the time, but thinking back now, it was such a pivotal point in my life. I was a stay-at-home mom of 2 young kids as the world was starting to open back up, all while navigating life in a new place. 

I was immediately drawn to Natalia's confident, down-to-earth personality, and sense of humor. That summer we’d talk as our kids played, and early on she became one of my closest friends; a role model to me in a time of my life when I very much needed one. 

As time went on, the two of us would meet up outside of the playground, usually for a walk in the park. I looked forward to this time to get out of the house, catch up, and often times delve into some inspirational podcast or book Natalia had read and suggested. I loved how she was always full of inspiration, and generously shared these inspirations with me. I admired how she examined her own life, and was committed to continually learning and growing as a person. She would make me pause and think about life, almost as much as she made me laugh about it. She had a great sense of humor. I admired her deeply for how fully she lived her life. She put herself out into the world, and stayed true to herself and her values. She wasn’t afraid to reach out to others; to ask questions. She had an exuberance for life that was contagious. She was consistent, reliable, and someone you could trust and always count on. 

Even in the few short years I knew her, she made a profound impact on my life. And although I said goodbye for the last time, in the same place that I first said hello; I can confidently say I am a better person now, than I was then, for having had her in my life. For this, even in sadness, I can’t help but feel an undeniable sense of deep gratitude.

Dear Victor and Family, I'm so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine the pain and heartache you’re feeling. I am praying for your peace and comfort. Natalia is gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.
With deepest sympathy,
Grazyna Lipowska-Bhalla

My full heart goes out for Victor, Filip and Lucas for having lost their loving Wife and Mother in such tragic and sudden circumstances.   

I knew Natalia well.  Well enough for her to trust me on occasions to look after her dog whilst traveling with Victor.  I am eternally grateful  for her advice during my early  days of being a yoga teacher.   I will truly miss her.
Stefan

Natalia, you were everybody’s best friend, wherever you go, you brought people joy and fun, thoughtful and kindness. You were and will still be a very important part of my life.

Roast duck dinner in your apartment, Forest Hills.

The only restaurant we choose to visit on your birthdays.

Natalia was and will continue to be an inspiration. She had the perfect balance of humor, honesty, and transparency. Around her, you could be your true self. She will always be in my heart and memories. Her life in this dimension won't be forgotten. For the boys and Victor, she was indeed a light and will continue to accompany us in a different form. Until we see each other again, my friend, big hug to all who will miss you dearly.

We laughed until we cried. The world will never be the same without you but there is no goodbye for us, you are always in my heart.

Natalia being her beautiful self spreading love and positive energy.

Friend bridal shower with a group of Natalia’s Polish girlfriends.

I remember the first time I met Natalia. I came to visit them in Virginia and we went dancing together the three of us. Victor, Natalia and me. I was so happy to feel the loving energy from her towards Victor. I was there when they married and I was honored to stand next to my brother when they became husband and wife. It was a beautiful wedding. She blessed our family by giving birth to 2 beautiful children and through them she will live on. She may be not physically present anymore but the love we all felt for her will be there forever.

This is how I will remember you, Natalia!
This is us in the third grade of primary school! As always, you did the opposite of what the adults wanted and dressed in your own way!!! Fully smiling, stubborn, always knowing what is good and what is bad, standing your ground and being faithful to your beliefs.
You have always been and will always be in my heart, my dearest friend.
I miss you, Zuzka

Natalia was a wonderful woman. Remember that time you invited us over for spam masubi and we didn’t realize you had no idea how to make this, so Natalia had to look up the recipe and it make help us make it for everyone ?

I met Natalia when she first arrived to the U.S.  she seemed quiet and timid. I started talking to her and we became inseparable. We loved signing at the top of our lungs to all of the Cranberries’ songs, and had Sinead O’Connor’s, nothing compares to you,  on  replay. With her I felt heard and understood. We knew each others secrets; our dreams, and fears. She gave me thoughtful advice and above all, she made me laugh and cry for all the right reasons. She made my high school experience an amazing one. 
The last time we spoke was almost 20 years ago. I was in a toxic relationship and she couldn’t stand it.  I’ve missed her all this time and wondered what her life was like.  I wanted to share with her that I was no longer in that relationship, that’s she was right, and if she’d  be open to having coffee with me.
I love you Nat and will forever treasure my time with you!

I will never forget our chats, on the IRC, about pregnancy 101! Your presence will truly be missed. My sincerest condolences to the family and loved ones 🙏🏽 🧡

I met Natalia at Virginia Hospital Center. She taught me so much about what speech therapists do and it made me a better nurse. She was always calm and kind. She will be greatly missed.

Dear Victor,
We are truly heartbroken about Natalia’s death…she was one of kind…beautiful soul…so positive and kind. Sending our deepest condolences to you and the boys,
Maja and Mike Doyle

Natalia, you were such a beautiful soul, I close my eyes and think about you, and all I can see is a lot of light, your personality outshines every place you went.  I have a lot of good memories with you and your family, that I will keep in my heart. I will miss you my dear friend. I promise you that my family and I, will be close to your little ones and Vic.

We love you Vic, Filip and Lucas 

With love  Gabo, Luca and Rox

I was deeply saddened to hear of Natalia's passing. Though our interaction was brief, her warmth and kindness, left a lasting impression. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Sincerely, Arie

OBITUARY

Natalia Maria Garcia Valencia

29 January, 1981 – 12 March, 2024

Forest Park Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services