Valarie Wynn Cusick

It is with deep love and profound sadness that the family of Valarie Wynn Cusick, affectionately known as Mimi, 65, of Gulfport, MS announces her passing on Sunday, November 30, 2025, in Gulfport.

She was born on December 12, 1959, in Jackson, MS to Willard T. Johnson and Lennie V. Johnson. She received her high school diploma and worked to help open Casino Magic, Treasure Bay and Divi Carina Bay Casano in St. Croix. She retired from Walmart. She was designated as a Mississippi Hero. Her hobbies were reading, church, and watching her favorite Christmas Hallmark movies.

Born and raised with a spirit full of warmth, humor and devotion, Valarie lived a life centered around family, joy and the simple beauty of being present with the people she loved most. She's now reunited in Heaven with her cherished parents, Willard and Lennie Johnson; her husband, Christopher Cusick and her baby sister Cindy Schuller; a circle once broken, now whole again.

She leaves behind her greatest pride and joy, her daughter, Megan Cusick, who carries her mother’s strength, compassion and fierce love in every step. She is also survived by her treasured grandchildren, Tegan Cusick, Nolan Cusick, Elijah Carter and Capri Carter, each a bright light in her life, as well as her loving sister, Kim Avery, who shared a lifetime of memories, laughter and unshakable sisterhood with her.

Valarie’s love was creative, playful and enduring, reflecting beautifully in the family’s request that in lieu of traditional flowers, Lego flowers be given. These lasting blooms can be built together by her daughter and grandchildren. Hands busy, hearts open, stories shared, ensuring her memory continues to grow and blossom for generations.

Valarie’s presence will be forever missed, but her kindness, laughter and the love she poured into her family will live on in every story told, every moment remembered and every colorful flower built in her honor.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at the Connect Fellowship Church at 18131 28th Street, Long Beach, MS.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of Valarie Cusick.