Mrs. Diedra Varnado Harris

Diedra Varnado Harris was born the third child of the late Leslie Varnado Sr. and Maecile Rayborn Varnado on April 10, 1964. At an early age she accepted Christ in her life and was baptized at Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where she remained faithful. Diedra attended South Pike High School and would further her educational endeavors at Mississippi State University and Jackson State University. She participated in the Famous Maroon Band and renowned Sonic Boom of the South. Diedra graduated from Jackson State University and would become a lifelong member of the JSU National Alumni Association. As an independent thinker, Diedra was always on the move pursuing her ideals and ambitions, while always encouraging others around her. She continued in her educational pursuits with a Masters from Belhaven College. Personally and professionally, she has fulfilled many roles to include positions with YUM! Brands, Philip Morris International, Waste Management Corporation, and as a Real Estate agent and Mary Kay consultant. Eventually, she channeled her love of people and altruistic nature into a passionate career as an educator and public school librarian, most recently with Jackson Public School District. She also performed with the Mississippi Orchestra and worked with the Jim Hill High School Marching Band as their devoted MC and coached middle school girls’ volleyball. Diedra never met a stranger, leaving us all with distinctive memories. She enjoyed spending time with family; laughing, shopping for deals, traveling, socializing, and singing both alone and in front of an audience. Diedra was full of life, passion, and love that she was always open to share with others. Diedra Varnado Harris peacefully transitioned in the presence of loved ones on May 21, 2025. She leaves to cherish her memories, a devoted husband of 30 years, Alfred Harris. A son: Christian O’Neil Varnado (Ashley) of Charlotte, NC; two grandsons Evan Varnado and Conner Varnado of Charlotte, NC ; two brothers: Leslie Varnado Jr. (Carrol) of Pataskala, OH; Edward Lonnie Varnado (Terry) of Jackson, MS; sister in laws: Carmen Harris Overton of Greensburg, LA; Zaida Harris Alexander of Abbeville, LA; Anita Harris Crutchfield (Brian) of Lafayette, LA; nieces: LaTrena Varnado Turner (Everette) of Upper Marlboro, MD; Ariane Crutchfield Thomas (Darryl) of Decatur, GA; Robin Crutchfield of Youngsville, LA; Jada Alexander or Tyler Texas; Nicole Alexander of Abbeville, LA; nephews: LaTerence Varnado of Columbus, MS; Charlie Overton III (Ebrony) of Greenwell Springs, LA; Clay Overton (Anayjah) of Greensburg LA; Christopher Alexander of Abbeville, LA and a host of great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends, who will miss her immensely.

Mrs. Diedra Varnado Harris

April 10, 1964 - May 21, 2025