October 20th 1952 – April 13th 2020
Short in stature, but strong, loving, intelligent, and very resourceful.
Late Monday evening on the 13th of April, Valerie Jo Ponds-Dorsey, with Our Lord and Savior sitting by her side, slipped peacefully away into his arms.
Preceding Valerie in death are her father Charles Ponds, her mother Ruth Hall, and her brother Louis James III. She is survived by her sister’s Maxine Ponds, Debra Ponds, Venetia Ponds, and sister-in-law Sonseeahray Meadow James. Her two children Anjanette Dorsey and Russell Dorsey. Her grandson Travis Dorsey, great grandson Tierin Dorsey, Russell’s partner Bryony Armbruster, and children Asha & Elah, and a whole slew of wonderful nieces and nephews.
Valerie was Born and raised in Everett WA. All throughout her school years, her infectious smile and bubbly personality, made her very well liked, admired and respected by her friends, classmates and the student body in general. So much so that by her Senior year at Everett High School, her student body elected her as Everett High School’s first Black Home Coming Queen.
After Valerie graduated from high school, she married a serviceman in the US Air force. They lived in many different places including overseas. Before her divorce, she had two children. Her daughter Anjanette (Angie) and son Russell (Rusty). She returned back to Everett WA to raise her to children as a single parent. Her children were the loves of her life and she would do anything for them. You could find them on any given Friday or Saturday, all snuggled together in her big bed. They resembled puppies in a basket. They would be watching movies, eating popcorn, and squeezed under the same blanket. Valerie was a strong, successful, single woman who would do everything she could to ensure her children had everything.
Valerie loved to take road trips with her friends and family. Her favorite places where Neah Bay, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Las Vegas, and New Orleans. She also enjoyed to host parties for friends and family at her home. There was always way too much good food, lots of laughter, and great music. Her family, her kids, and her children’s friends would always attend and everyone had a wonderful time.
Valerie built many memories and friendships with her colleagues during her 34 years with the Boeing Company. Those relationships continued way beyond her retirement with the company.
With her two children all grown up, she finally started to relax. She loved going to the casinos, playing games on her computer, watching late night movies, listening to audio stories, and taking long afternoon naps. She leaves quite a legacy behind.
Valerie, you will be greatly missed by the many friends and family members who loved you so much.
A celebration of life will be held at a later time.
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