Valarie Washington Edmonds entered the world on May 1, 1969, in Winston-Salem, NC to the late Shelley Reeder Jiles, Jr. and the late Edna Louise Washington. She departed this life peacefully on February 17, 2026, after a lengthy illness, surrounded by her cherished family at Duke University Medical Center, embraced by the same love and devotion she had generously shared throughout her life.

Educated in the Winston-Salem Public School system, she graduated from East Forsyth High School and later attended Forsyth Technical Community College, where she became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). From a young age, she displayed a vibrant spirit, a kind heart, and a natural ability to bring joy to those around her. "Val", as she was affectionately known, was a woman of extraordinary kindness, strength, and generosity. She devoted over thirty years of service to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Her career was marked by compassion, dedication, and a genuine commitment to caring for others. Due to her illness, she retired in 2025.

On July 2, 2016, after years of being pursued, she ultimately surrendered, and married the love of her life, Willard "Bee" Edmonds. Together they built a home filled with laughter, loyalty, and unwavering love. A devoted wife and mother, Valarie was blessed with two sons and 4 bonus children, whom she nurtured with patience, wisdom, and a heart that never seemed to tire. Following the death of her sister Sharon, she lovingly embraced her niece, Aliyah, with the same love and devotion she gave her own children.

Valarie was a devoted servant of the Rose McCloud Chapter #608 Order of the Eastern Star, and the Order of the Golden Circle, Clark S. Brown Assembly #44. She was a proud member and was honored to serve as Past Worthy Matron and Loyal Lady, embodying the principles of the Order with compassion and dedication. Known for her loving heart and dedication to charity, Past Worthy Matron Edmonds mentored many members and was a pillar in her community.

Even as her health declined, her spirit remained vibrant and full of life. She found happiness in the little things that added beauty to her life. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her family, both immediate and extended. Her interests included embroidery, bowling, traveling, dancing, "cutting up," and listening to her favorite R&B and classic hip hop artists. Valarie cherished every "Glamping" trip with her second family, the 14A/14B Camping Crew, particularly quality time spent at the Indian Acres Club of Thornburg. Additionally, she frequently could be seen socializing at Cycle Kings Motorcycle Club events, usually, alongside Bee. But above of all, she treasured every moment spent with her beloved four-legged companion, "Boss", who rarely left her side.

Valarie had a gift for making others feel loved, supported, and cherished. Her gentle nature, nurturing presence, and boundless compassion touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was the steady center of her family, the one who could turn a hard day around with a soft listening ear or a much needed sharp yet loving tongue.

Valarie is now reunited with her parents and loving sister, Sharon Washington Rhodes, who preceded her in death.

She leaves behind to celebrate her life and cherish the memories her husband, Willard "Bee" Edmonds; sons, Robert Washington and Charles Washington (Tyler); bonus son and daughters, Montarica Reid (Gordan), William Shelf, Paris Hunter, and Jasmine Shelf; her siblings, Shirley Washington (William), Alvin Washington (Michelle), Satonya Wansley ( Jason), Jacqueline Davis, and Renee Solomon; 13 adored grandchildren, including Brooklyn, with whom she shared a special bond; her in-laws, Donna McCray, Donald Edmonds (LaKisha), Dawn Bogan (Chris),Dejuana Cherry, Natarsha Flood ( Joe), Gwendolyn Edmonds and Salena Collins; 2 special aunts, Patricia Mitchell and Williette Childs; 2 special uncles, Lee Otis Washington and T. Willard Fair; she also leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who have become more like family.

Though her passing leaves a deep ache, her legacy lives on in the love she poured into her family, the memories she created, and the countless lives she brightened simply by being herself.

Valarie will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm Friday, February 27, 2026 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel.   Entombment will follow in Parklawn Memorial Park. The family visitation will be held from 12noon until 1:00pm on Friday at the Chapel.