Jamille Posey

Jamille Posey passed away on June 26, 2023 at the age of 50 after a courageous battle from a stroke, surrounded by her loved ones who will continue to honor her. She was born on October 18, 1972 in Chicago's Englewood/southside area to two loving parents, Andrew Brown and Lou Viena Powell. She graduated from Edward Tilden High School on June 22, 1990 then pursued her dream going to Culinary Arts Job Corporation.

Jamille found solace and purpose in the world of education. Her journey was adorned with remarkable achievements, as she earned numerous certificates of recognition, showcasing her dedication and thirst for knowledge. She had dreams and aspirations to become a poet which she'd do in her free time.

Jamille found joy in the art of sewing and knitting. With nimble fingers and a creative spirit, she crafted beautiful garments and intricate patterns that reflected her unique personality. Through her creations, she expressed love, warmth and a keen eye for detail. She shared a love for cooking. Her kitchen was her canvas and with each dish, she poured her love and creativity into them.

Born and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, Jamille poured her heart and soul into raising her son, striving to give him the best upbringing possible. Her greatest joy in life was being a mother. She treasured every moment spent with her son, embracing the challenges and joys of parenthood with unwavering dedication. However, as the murder rates began to rise in her neighborhood, Jamille faced an agonizing decision. The safety and well-being of her son weighed heavily on her heart, so she made the difficult decision to move as she didn't want her son to go to High School in Illinois. At one point, she was living in a shelter and met a friend whom later in life she contacted, suggesting she make a move closer to her in Dubuque, Iowa, so Jamille packed up and left with her son. She accidentally booked the wrong bus ticket and ended up in Des Moines where she buckled down and began to build a new life. With courage as her guide, she began a new path of transformation, standing tall and strong in the face of adversity.

Throughout her life, Jamille battled with depression and overwhelming stress, carrying burdens that many could not comprehend. She missed her Illinois life, but knew Iowa was best for her and her son. Despite the weight she carried, she demonstrated remarkable resilience and an unwavering spirit.

Jamille's life underwent a significant transformation following the stroke in 2013. It changed her and her son's life drastically. Despite the physical toll, she embraced her new reality with unwritten courage. In 2017, she took immense pride in witnessing her son embark on a new chapter as he married and bestowed upon her the gift of grandmotherhood. The love she poured into her role as a mother and grandmother was immeasurable.

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Cassius (Jeresa) Powell; granddaughter Ca'Niyah Powell; grandson Cassius Powell Jr.; sisters Ferma Smith, Rae Smith, Yolanda McCoy; aunt Cora Johnson; nieces and nephews Jocelyn Smith, Johnnie Smith, Demarco Smith, Dale Smith, Ja'Ree Boler, Ja'Quee Dunbar and Charlonda McCoy; and other numerous nieces, nephews and cousins whom she loved and cherished deeply. She is preceded in death by her father Andrew Powell, mother Lou Viena Brown, step-mother Barbara Powell and brother Andre Powell.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 5th, 2023 from 2:00-3:00 pm with a Funeral Service to follow at 3:00 pm at Simplify Cremations & Funerals.

Today, as we bid farewell to Jamille, we celebrate the love and devotion she shared with her family. Her unwavering strength in the face of adversity serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the depth of a mother's love. The legacy she leaves behind is one of courage, inspiration, and the enduring bonds of family. She will be missed.