Batsirai Neliah Kasu

With heavy hearts, we remember the beautiful life of Batsirai (Helper) Neliah Kasu, who was born October 17, 1978, at Mpilo General Hospital in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Our beloved Batsi peacefully passed away on June 10, 2025, at Levine Dickson Hospice Care in Charlotte, North Carolina, surrounded by love after courageously battling an aggressive brain cancer.

Batsirai was the cherished eldest child of her late father, Dr. Collins Kasu, and her late mother, Precious Hove (née Ndebele). She was truly a beloved "Princess Tangwena," carrying herself with dignity and grace throughout her life. She grew up with her maternal grandparents in Bulawayo until age 11, when she moved to Harare to be with her father's family.

Batsi was the protective and caring big sister who lovingly guided her brothers from her mother, Mufaro and Sifiso Hove. Her heart expanded further to embrace her brothers and sister from her father: Dr.Tonderai Kasu, Shingirai Kasu, Chido Kasu (Sister), and Tendekai Kasu. Her nurturing spirit touched each of their lives in profound ways.

Above all, Batsi's greatest joy and pride came from being a devoted mother to her two precious daughters. She poured her heart into raising 12-year-old Anashe Ellen Munyengeterwa (with ex-husband Devine Munyengeterwa) and 5-year-old Farikayi Tafadzwa Rimbi-Kasu. Her love for them was boundless, and she worked tirelessly to give them the best life possible.

Batsi's brilliance shone early when she graduated in 1997 from Eaglesvale High School in Harare with academic honors that reflected her dedication and intelligence. As a hostel prefect and team volleyball player, she demonstrated the leadership and team spirit that would define her throughout life. Her caring nature extended to creating the "Valians" WhatsApp group, which continues to keep Eaglesvale alumni connected across the world—a testament to her gift for bringing people together.

Her pursuit of excellence led her to earn a BS in Computer Information Systems from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln in 2001. She built a successful career working for Blackboard, the education technology company, and later as a licensed aesthetician running her beloved Butterfly Spa from her home, where she helped others feel beautiful and confident. From 2015 to 2024, she excelled as a technology project manager for major financial companies in Charlotte, NC, where her expertise and warm personality made her a valued colleague and friend.

Batsi had an extraordinary gift for connecting with people. Her confidence and outgoing spirit drew others to her like a magnet, and she had the rare ability to make everyone feel special and valued. The countless friendships she formed were deep and lasting, built on her genuine care for others and her infectious joy for life.

Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, love, and incredible strength. Batsi faced every challenge with grace and determination, and her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, and now they are reunited in eternal peace.

Her memory will forever be a blessing to her daughters, siblings, extended family, and the many friends whose lives she touched with her radiant spirit and loving heart.

A funeral service for Batsirai will be held Monday, June 16, 2025 at 11:00 am at McEwen Funeral Service Inc., 10500 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28210.

The Order of Service is as Follows:

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE

In Loving Memory of Batsirai Netiah Kasu

Monday, June 16, 2025

11:00 am

Call to Order: Tarie Prejean

Opening Songs: Hallelujah and Avulekite Amasango - Ishmael

Message of Comfort: Elder Nate Fortunato

Reflections and Tributes: Kasu Family Representative - Charles Kasu

Brothers: Mufaro Hove, Sifiso Hove

Daughters: Anashe Munyengeterwa Farikayi and Tafadzwa Rimbi-Kasu

Friends:

Karen Washington of Charlotte, NC

Nomvuo Madzima of United Kingdom of Great Britain

Taffy Chorwira and Jesca Mhonda - Charlotte Zimbabwean Community Representatives

Claire Sachikonye - United Kingdom of Great Britain

Mother: Sithabile Ndebele

Celebratory Closing Dance

Closing Prayer: Victor Mabena - United Kingdom of Great Britain

"The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." Job 1:21