Nikitia V. Powell PhD

Obituary Dr. Nikitia Vernaé Powell was born on May 4, 1979 at Peninsula General Hospital in Salisbury, Maryland to the late Anita L. Stewart-Torney and Wyatt W. Powell. Button, as she was affectionately called by family, and Niki by her classmates and colleagues, was educated in Somerset County, Maryland where she attended Washington High School (WHS) in Princess Anne, Maryland. While at WHS, she participated in track and field, played saxophone in the Marching band, and was part of the National Honor Society. Button graduated in 1997 and then attended the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. From there, she relocated to Virginia Beach, Virginia where she attended Regent University. During her time at Regent University, Nikitia earned both her Master of Arts in Psychology and Counseling and her Master of Business Administration (MBA). Her Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) was conferred in May 2020. While at Regent University, she joined the Law Library as a graduate assistant in 1999. She was appointed to the professional staff as Assistant Supervisor of Access Services in 2005 and transitioned to the supervisor role in 2006. In 2018, she resigned from her supervisor position at the Law Library and accepted her dream job with the United States Department of Defense, where she remained until she was called to her heavenly home. Button was a devout Christian and loved the Lord. She was not afraid to share her love and testimony with anyone she met. Her relationship with Christ began and was nurtured at St. Marks United Methodist Church in Oaksville, Maryland from her youth until she moved to Virginia Beach. There, she attended City of Refuge Christian Church of Virginia Beach where she served as a teacher for the Children’s Church ministry. Dr. Powell was preceded in death by her mother, Anita L. Stewart-Torney, her father, Wyatt W. Powell, maternal grandfather, Charles F. Stewart, Sr., her paternal grandmother, Dorothy Powell and her maternal uncle, Bruce E. Stewart. She is survived by: her sister, Tyshon K. Jones-Waters of Atlanta, Georgia; brother, Marcus J. Murray, Sr. (Merriel) of Salisbury, Maryland; loving maternal grandmother, Edith D. Stewart of Princess Anne, Maryland; uncle, Charles F. Stewart, Jr. of Laurel, Maryland; uncle, Vaughn E. Stewart of Princess Anne, Maryland; aunt, Dawn D. Killian (Marcus) of Atlanta, Georgia; aunt, Laverne Stewart of Princess Anne, Maryland; two nephews, Justin S. Waters (Breaunte) and Marcus J. Murray Jr.; five nieces, Jasmine V. Waters, Alexis M. Waters, Reshawn J. Murray, Amaya B. Murray and Kyra J. Murray; three great nieces, Ce’Asia, Raelynn, and Nia; five great nephews, Camari, Rapheal, Jr., Camden, Sincere, and Uzziah and a host of other relatives, family, and friends. Now about Button: She was loved by everyone who knew her. There was a lasting impact with everyone she encountered. She was dedicated and a hard worker. She had a beautiful, huge, smile and contagious laugh. She could crack herself up at her own corny jokes. She took pride in purposefully singing high notes off key and encouraged all who would to join in with her. She was considered a friend and a confidant to many and would give the shirt off her back to anyone in need. As sweet as she was, she had a strong flavor of “peppa” and had no problems “dropping the mic” and putting you in your place. “Don’t ask a question if you did not want an honest answer; sugar coating was NOT her specialty!” Button was an overcomer. Though she battled many health issues and life’s trials, even questioned tests in her Christian journey, she yet persevered in bringing glory to God and loving on others. Her leaving us was sudden; her life endures in the lives of those she touched. We all have fond memories that we can share and cherish forever. Although she is gone from this Earth, she will NEVER be forgotten. Button (Niki) lived a full life despite the short amount of time with us. Button loved her family. Lovingly Submitted ~ The Family

Nikitia V. Powell PhD

May 4, 1979 - May 14, 2020