Valerie Theresa Watson-Dibia Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

With a look of determination and a praise on her heart, Valerie Theresa Watson Dibia took her last breath on March 29, 2021 and entered into eternal glory. Her start on this earth began on January 22, 1955 in New Orleans, Louisiana born to the union of the late Eva Mae Waston and James Watson Sr. She received religious education and started her faith formation at St. Monica Catholic Church, where she also became an active and instrumental parishioner throughout the years. One of her biggest accomplishments there was forming an annual Women's Day celebration. After St. Monica closed after Hurricane Katrina, she became a member of Blessed Trinity Parish. Known for her witty jokes, quick comebacks and infectious personality. Her presence will be missed by many. Although she only had one child by birth, she became a second mother to many and a caring and dedicated friend to many as well. Valerie dedicated much of her time to the Knights of Peter Claver, Ladies Auxiliary, where she held every position at Court 59 (with the exception of Jr. Daughter Counselor). Her passionate work earned her several KPC awards including: Lady of the Year (Ct. 59), New Orleans Central Committee Lady of the Year and the KPCLA Silver Medal. In her professional life, Valerie worked for several years at Baptist Hospital as a head secretary. After graduating from Southern University New Orleans, she began her career in the early 90s as a social worker. She worked at various organizations including: Volunteers of America, Total Community Action, Great Expectations, and Community Connections in New Orleans and in Baton Rouge. She even owned and operated her own business Authentic Community Living for several years. She leaves to cherish her loving memory, one son, Emeka Dibia; children-in-love, Ikenna, Okechukwu (Uchechi), Onyekachi, and Chidimma Dibia; brothers, Phillip Joseph Watson and Bishop Todd (Evangelist Shandell) Watson, Sr.; sister, Hazel Watson Metz; sisters-in-law, Connie J. Watson and Tanya Spencer; nieces, Luciana (Kevin) Metz Ross, Lorraine Metz, and Candance Watson Moore; nephews, Thaddeus Watson, Todd Watson, Jr., Ceth Watson, Lester(Jasmen) Watson, and Chyane (Kamila) Watson; uncle, August (Mildred) James, Sr.; great nieces and nephews, Kevin Posey, Alvin Metz, Jr.; Alonna Metz, Layla Metz, Le'Quesha Morris, Le'Shan Jackson Watson, Le'Shantea Jackson Watson, Lester Watson, Jr., Van'Jae Grayson, Van'Shon Grayson, ; best friend, Tenettie Patrica Griffin; and many other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband, Stephilus Dibia; parents, James and Eva Mae Watson, Sr.; brother, James Watson, Jr.; sister, Judith Ann Watson; nephew, Alvin Francis Metz, Sr.; grandparents, Joseph and Hazel L. James, and Phillip "Pete" and Clara Watson. Before she transitioned, she said often "Don't Worry About Me" and "Don't Cry for Me." Even though we might shed a tear here and there we don't have to cry long, because we know now, she is resting in eternal peace. A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2021 beginning at 9:00AM at Blessed Trinity Parish Catholic Church, 4230 S Broad Ave, New Orleans, LA 70125. Mass of Christian Burial to follow beginning at 12 noon. Cross Memorial Funeral Home of Amite are in charge of arrangements.

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Valerie Theresa Watson-Dibia

January 22, 1955 - March 29, 2021