Samirah Lynne Powell

Samirah Lynne “Reese” Powell was born on September 14, 2006, in Cheverly, Maryland. From the very beginning, she was a radiant light whose warmth, kindness, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. In her 19 remarkable years, Samirah lived with a love, strength, and compassion far beyond her years, bringing joy, laughter, and comfort to her family, friends, and community.
From elementary through middle school, she consistently made the honor roll, and in high school, she proudly became a member of the National Honor Society. She enjoyed helping others as a math tutor and volunteering her time reading with kindergarten students. Samirah was also active in the Marine Corps ROTC and Color Guard, played on her high school volleyball team, and competed with Volleyball Dynamix, always demonstrating leadership, discipline, and a heart for service.
After graduating from Culpeper County High School, Mirah took time to explore her future while continuing to serve others. She worked as a counselor supporting children with autism through Compass Nova, served as a Team Lead at Panera, and later worked as an Activities Assistant at Culpeper Health and Rehabilitation, where her joyful spirit brightened many days.
Samirah loved car shows and had a talent for working on cars. At just 18, she proudly changed her own head gasket. She also loved the beach and traveling with friends, creating memories filled with laughter and adventure.
In September 2025, Samirah pursued her passion for caring for others by becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant. After completing her training and earning her CNA certification, she began working at Dogwood Village of Orange County, where she continued to show her kindness and dedication to those in her care.
She leaves to cherish her memory her parents, Brian Keith Powell and Rachel Leigh Smith; bonus mom, Nanette Mejias; her sisters, Nya Powell, Maliya Powell, Brianna Powell, and Nadelyn Bozman; her grandparents, Carolyn Birch, Bob Birch, Rosa and Artis Montgomery; her aunts and uncles, Rebecca Smith (Michael), Katrina Montgomery (Greg), Adrian Bennett (Sonnie), Jeffery Albritton, Jr., Eric Montgomery (Amanda), and Cordale Montgomery; her treasured friends, Tyler Hughes Brekley, Hailey Metzger and Bryanna Tyler; and many extended family members and friends.
Samirah’s legacy lives on in the hearts she touched, the smiles she inspired, and the love she shared so freely. Her beautiful spirit will always be remembered and celebrated.
Please join us for a joyful Celebration of Life honoring Samirah on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM. The service will be held at Shiloh Church, 15055 Stevensburg Road, Brandy Station, VA 22714. Afterward, everyone is invited to a reception at the Brandy Station Firehouse, 19601 Church Road, Brandy Station, VA 22714. We hope you’ll gather with us to share memories, laughter, and love as we remember Samirah’s incredible spirit.

Instead of flowers, please consider honoring Samirah’s memory by planting a living tribute memorial tree in her name. Through Trees for Change, a tree will be planted in a National Forest where it’s needed most, creating a lasting legacy for Samirah and a greener world for all. https://www.treesforachange.com/collections/memorial-trees-sympathy-gifts
You may also help continue Samirah’s legacy of caring by donating to the Dogwood Village Foundation in her memory.
• Your generous gifts to the Dogwood Foundation help support meaningful programs and resources for both residents and staff, bringing joy, education, and enrichment to many. These contributions provide for resident activities, entertainment, and education or tuition for dedicated staff members.
• Checks may be made payable to Dogwood Village. Please include “In Memory of Samirah” on the memo line so your gift can be recognized in her honor.