Mrs. Valarie C. Powell, affectionately known as "Val Val" or simply "Val," passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service on Friday, June 06,  2025. Valarie was born on May 20, 1965, in Gulfport, Mississippi. She was the eldest child of Matilda Nesbit and the late Joseph Nesbit, Sr. Valarie was a proud graduate of Harrison Central High School, Class of 1983.

Valarie was married to the late Rickey Powell of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and together they shared a life rooted in love and family.

She dedicated many years to the Gulfport School District as a Child Nutrition Manager at 28th Street Elementary School, where she was beloved by both staff and students. Before her time with the school district, Valarie made lasting impressions through her work at Flying Jays Cookery as a line cook and Driftwood Nursing Home as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She was also a certified cosmetologist and a talented cook, sharing her many gifts with everyone she met.

Valarie had an unmatched zest for life and a spirit that lit up every room she entered. She loved to travel, with cruising being one of her favorite adventures. Whether she was casting a line while fishing, catching beads during Mardi Gras, or simply spending quality time with her family, Valarie embraced every moment with joy, laughter, and love.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Rickey Powell; her father, Joseph Nesbit Sr.; and her brother, Joseph Nesbit Jr.

Valarie leaves to cherish her memory: her loving mother, Matilda Nesbit; her sister, Michelle Rogers; her daughter, Alicia Nesbit;  her sons, Edwyn Mann, Sr.; and Marcus Mann, all of Gulfport. She is also remembered with love by her special friend, Eddie Daniels, her 13 grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Valarie's warmth, generosity, and unforgettable spirit touched countless lives. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.