Valerie Jenkins

Valerie Odette Jenkins was born in Denver, Colorado on Wednesday, October 30, 1963. She was the daughter of Doris Cooper and Tommy Nelson. Valerie was the second oldest child of seven children, the oldest, Christopher, D. Marcus, Shawn, J. Denise, Paula and Shadawn. Even though she wasn't the oldest, she always played the motherly role to all of her siblings. Growing up, Valerie enjoyed catching insects, especially grasshoppers. She loved to sing particularly songs by Whitney Houston and was intrigued by horses. One thing was for sure she always made sure she was picture ready. Valerie was raised in a Christian home; she and her family attended Holy Trinity Church of God in Christ, which her mother and grandmother, Luella, are still members. As a young girl, Valerie accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. During church revivals, you could find her at the altar seeking God in prayer. Through all her trials and triumphs, she knew God was still with her. She had a spiritual connection to Heritage Christian Center and Jesus was on her mind even on the day she passed; she planned to attend church services that evening. Valerie obtained her formal education in the Denver Public Schools District which included Smith and Stedman Elementary schools, Hill Junior High and George Washington High school, where she met many of her life-long friends and went on to accept them as family. During middle and high school, Valerie was a member of JROTC Drill Team where she learned how to twirl her rifle, but was always too proper to shoot it. Although she was not shooting rifles, she gained leadership skills, teamwork and discipline. Valerie had some college experience but left to dedicate her life to her beautiful first born daughter, Shyvetta, whose father was Richard Chapman. In the summer of 1983, she met a gentleman by the name of Cleophus Edwards, III, where they were able to bond and create a beautiful relationship. To this loving relationship, two more children were born, her only son, Paris, and baby girl, Damisha. She was always extremely supportive of her kids, despite their mischievous demeanors. She routinely reached out to family which brought unity amongst them all. Her home was always open, her life was a testament of achievement, great accomplishments, and survival. Valerie left behind a rich legacy that will forever be remembered. Valerie's love was tender and genuine, one full of joy, no matter the storm. She always pushed her best foot forward, stood strong and pressed for the best out of herself and others. She was also a protector. She consistently motivated others to remain positive. To know good, was to do good and not doing it was a sin. Once she knew that helping others was the key, she found herself always willing to help, which helped guide her to success. From helping with her hands to the wonderful smile that was ever present on her face and in her heart. Lord God in heaven blessed Valerie to be a loving friend and sister to absolutely everyone, evident by the testimonies of all who knew her. She led greatness and success; Valerie was a main factor for the Empowerment Program, where she worked and enabled many people to get on their feet. After leaving the company, she was welcomed into H.M. Brown and Associates, where she worked her way from Receptionist to Office Manager. Valerie recently celebrated 20 years with the company. She was greatly respected, appreciated and loved by everyone including the owner, Bud Brown. Valerie was fortunate enough to travel to many beaches and throughout the United States. She was a collector of bells and angels. Valerie prided herself in never missing an event whether it was last minute birthday parties to volunteer events, you can count on Valerie to be there with her graceful and becoming smile. Valerie Odette Jenkins left her mark on earth at the young age of 53 on March 14, 2017, in Parker, Colorado; she will forever be remembered as a loving mother, teacher, role model and so much more Those left to cherish her memory and mourn her loss include her three children, Shyvetta (Carl), Paris (Danielle), and Damisha (Andre); her mother and stepfather, Doris and Anthony Cooper; six siblings, Chris, Denise, D. Marcus, Paula (Malcolm), Shadawn and Shawn; her grandmother, Luella Pope; five grandchildren, who called her "Lola", Natascyanna, Tazon, Natalia, Kheyair, and Cailanni-Valerie; the Godparents of her children, Regina and Kirk Johnson; Her best friends, Johnna, Tina, Karen, Danita, Rennette and Gwen; 14 nieces and nephews, 13 great nieces and nephews , a franchise of extended family and friends, including those that reside in Texas.

Funeral Home: Pipkin Braswell Funerals and Cremation - 2050 Uinta Street, Denver, Colorado
Visitation: 3/24/2017 at 4:00 PM - Pipkin Braswell Chapel of Peace - 6601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO
Service: 3/25/2017 at 11:00 AM - Friendship Baptist Church of Christ Jesus - 880 Fairfax Street, Denver, CO
Family Gathering: 3/25/2017 - Family at 2341 Lima Street (Aurora) - Pipkin Braswell Reception Center - 6601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO