Nuevarene Somoba

Nuevarene “Vene” Somoba, 58, of Hopkins, died on September 28, 2026. Born January 1, 1968, in Honolulu, Hawaii, she was a daughter of Mary Fierro and the late Julian Somoba.

Nuevarene possessed a true servant’s heart and found great joy in giving back to others. Outgoing and warmhearted, she never met a stranger and had a natural gift for connecting with people wherever she went. Throughout her life, she generously gave her time to causes that were important to her, including volunteering with Hurricane Helene relief efforts, Columbia Flood of 2015, Orangeburg County Animal Control and Shelter and transport, and soldiers on Fort Jackson.

Her kindness, compassion, and willingness to serve others left a lasting impression on the many lives she touched.

Vene was a survivor - in her early thirties, she had heart valve replacement surgery, along with countless other complications over the years, but she never let that stop her; she became a Women’s Red Heart Ambassador with the American Heart Association.

Having been born in Hawaii, Nuevarene maintained a special connection to the islands and enjoyed returning there. She also loved spending time at the beach, where she could enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of the coast. Her career was spent in the service and hospitality industry, a fitting profession for someone who genuinely enjoyed people and cared for others.

In addition to her father, Julian Somoba, Nuevarene was preceded in death by her stepfather, Joseph Fierro.

She is survived by her mother, Mary Fierro; brothers, Alexander Somoba (Louise) and Matthew Somoba; nieces and nephews, Megan Somoba, Nicholette Somoba, and Logan Somoba.

The memorial service to celebrate Nuevarene’s life will be held at 3 o’clock on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Shives Funeral Home, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext. Columbia, SC. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 2 o’clock until 3 o’clock.