Evalina Patino Small Obituary-Death News; Evalina Patino Small, Quito, Ecuador Native, Dies: Tom Sachs Mourn
It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the untimely passing of Evalina Patiño Small, a radiant young woman whose life, though tragically brief, was rich in creativity, kindness, and purpose.
Born on St. Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1997, in Quito, Ecuador, Evalina carried the spirit of that day throughout her life—bringing love, light, and warmth to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her sudden and unexpected passing on March 31, 2025, has left an indescribable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the wider community. Evalina’s memory will be forever cherished by her devoted and loving mother, Maria Patricia Small, and her father, Carlos Patiño.
She was also dearly loved by her stepmother, Amanda B. Patiño, who embraced Evalina with care and affection. Her passing is deeply mourned by her beloved grandmother, Maripaz “Lala” Patiño, who was a guiding light in her life, as well as her grandparents Judi and Bruce Behrins, and grandmother Elizabeth Small.
Evalina shared a close and enduring bond with her brothers, Giancarlo and Sebastian, who will always hold her in their hearts. She is also remembered with great love by her extended family, including aunts, uncles, cousins, and a wide network of friends who considered her not just a companion, but a source of strength, insight, and inspiration.
Though she has now joined her late grandfather John Small, grandmother Marta Navarro, and grandfather Carlos Patiño in eternal rest, the impact Evalina had on those she left behind will continue to shine brightly.
Evalina was a deep thinker and visionary artist, someone who saw beauty in the world around her and sought to express it with authenticity and passion. A true creative spirit, she founded her own studio, where she nurtured her talents and turned her artistic vision into tangible works that reflected her inner world.
Her entrepreneurial drive and originality led her to collaborate with notable organizations in New York City, where her talent quickly garnered attention. Evalina approached every endeavor with curiosity, grace, and a desire to make meaningful contributions, not just in art but in the lives of others.
Her work was more than just a career—it was a reflection of her soul. Evalina infused everything she did with emotion, intelligence, and an innate understanding of the human experience.
She had the rare ability to connect deeply with others, offering support and compassion in even the smallest interactions. Her warmth was genuine, her laughter contagious, and her spirit unforgettably tender.
Though the pain of losing Evalina is immeasurable, her loved ones find solace in the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of love, strength, creativity, and generosity.
She truly lived up to her Valentine’s Day birth, embodying the ideals of love and compassion in every aspect of her life. Her memory will forever inspire those who knew her to live with deeper empathy, to create with boldness, and to love without hesitation.
A visitation in her honor will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Levandoski-Grillo Funeral Home, 44 Bay Ave., Bloomfield, NJ. Valet parking will be available for the convenience of guests.
Family, friends, and all who wish to celebrate Evalina’s life are warmly invited to attend her Funeral Service on Saturday, April 5th. The gathering will begin at 1:30 p.m., followed by a 2:00 p.m. service at the First Congregational Church of Montclair, 40 S. Fullerton Ave., Montclair, NJ.
In loving memory, we say goodbye to a remarkable soul taken too soon. Rest in eternal peace, Evalina. You are forever our Valentine, now and always.
