Obituary published on Legacy.com by Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel & Crematory - Downtown on Nov. 18, 2025.
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marcella Lewasia Dancy, a beloved daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend. Marcella was born on March 12, 2005, in
Newport News, Virginia, to Labarbara "Niki" Phillips and Marcellus Dancy III. On Thursday, November 13, 2025, Marcella was called home in the peaceful comfort of her own residence, leaving a tremendous void in the lives of all who loved her.
Marcella was a bright, spirited young woman whose presence brought warmth and joy to every room she entered. She grew up with a deep love for her family and a natural gift for connecting with others. She played basketball for Crittenden Middle School, showcasing her determination, teamwork, and drive even at a young age. She later attended Heritage High School and proudly earned her high school diploma from Penn Foster, demonstrating her perseverance and commitment to her future.
Marcella carried that same determination into her professional life, working with pride as a deck electrician for Huntington Ingalls. She was ambitious, focused, and dedicated to building a life marked by purpose and independence.
She was preceded in death by her beloved Grandmother Barbara Phillips, Grandfather Robert Phillips, and Grandfather Jerome Stallings, all of whom have surely welcomed her with open arms.
Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Labarbara "Niki" Phillips and Marcellus Dancy III; her grandmother Brenda Wilkes; her grandfather Philip Davis; and her siblings: Markita Dancy (35), Terrance Lucas (35), Olivia McIntosh (34), Ashley Neal (32), Logan Frazier (32), Tianica Harmon (29), Marquis Dancy (27), and Khaliq Germany (26). She also leaves behind her treasured niece, Moncé Hargrove, who adored her deeply.
Marcella's life was enriched by the love of her aunts: Rachel Carney, Rikita Phillips, Anisha "Cookie" Phillips, Jalissa Alexander, and Susan Reynolds; her uncle Emanuel Mitchell; and a host of cousins who were more like siblings - Djuan Phillips, JaQuan Phillips, Raquan Carney, JaQuana Phillips, Raquana Carney, Tyquan Johnson (Thanielle), Jayquan Phillips, Jaywuan Carmichael, Carnisha Carmack, Tyrell Alexander, Tiandre Williams and Syncere Alexander.
She also shared a meaningful bond with her Bonus Mom, Dr. Jemina Liverman, who loved and supported her without hesitation; her Godmother, Tunisia Winns; her God sisters, Toni Hargrove, Shamika Robinson, and Denise Carroll.
Marcella's circle of love extended to her best friends, Kiara Howard and Yvonne Dixon, and her special friend, Adaja Mizell, all of whom were blessed by her loyalty, laughter, and unforgettable spirit.
Marcella lived a life full of style, rhythm, and connection. She had an undeniable passion for fashion, a love for music, and a deep appreciation for time spent with her mother and family, who were the core of her heart. Her presence, whether through her smile, her humor, or her big, beautiful personality, touched countless lives.
Though her time with us was far too short, the love she gave, the joy she brought, and the memories she created will live on forever in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Marcella will be deeply missed and forever cherished. May her beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.
Viewing will be held Friday, November 21, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street,
Newport News, Va. A funeral service will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Restoration & Faith Ministry, 2114 Hampton Avenue,
Newport News, Va.
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