Soleter Herbert Powell

Soleter Rone Herbert Powell, affectionately known as “Leta,” and to those closest to her as “Smallie,” of the Bronx, New York, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with complications following a severe stroke.

Soleter, along with her twin sister Calmeta, was born at home in Cox Village, Nevis, to the late Marion and David Nathaniel "Charles" Powell. Although their birth certificates list April 23, 1951, their true birth date was April 5, 1951.

Following the passing of her beloved mother, Marion, in 1970, Soleter migrated to St. Croix, where she lived with her elder sister, Doreen, and lovingly cared for her youngest sisters, Rosalind and Edris, as well as her infant nephews, Junie and Cornell. She later moved to St. Thomas, where her daughter, Rena Kirby, was born.

In the 1990s, Soleter followed her twin sister, Calmeta, and made a new home in the Bronx, NY. She devoted her time to working as a home health aide and lovingly helped cared for her siblings’ children—Latasha, Delisha, and Kevin. Soleter Herbert Powell was truly one of a kind, filling every room with laughter, love, and warmth. She cherished her family and friends and was always willing to lend a helping hand. She was an extraordinary sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend, whose presence brought comfort and joy to all who knew her.

One of Soleter’s greatest joys was reading her Bible, a practice that grounded and guided her throughout her life. She also found comfort and entertainment in her favorite television shows, including Family Feud, Chicago P.D., The Young and the Restless, and General Hospital. In addition, she faithfully listened to Christian Family Radio and watched Christian television programs, which strengthened her spiritual walk. Soleter was an active and devoted member of the Tabernacle Church of God in the Bronx, where her presence and faith were deeply appreciated.

Soleter was predeceased by her parents, Marion and Charles Powell, as well as her siblings Wilbert Powell, Morris Powell, Doreen Hanley, and brother in law Vincent Allen.

Soleter is survived by her beloved siblings, including her twin sister Calmeta “Biggie” Powell, Louizier Allen, Alvin Powell, Rosalind Stapleton and her husband, Levi Stapleton, as well as Edris Hanley and her brother-in-law, Wingrove Hanley I. She is also survived by her many nieces and nephews: Dahlia Hanley John, Juanita Hanley Gumbs, Wingrove “Junie” Hanley, Delvin Allen, Cornell Hanley, Delison Allen, Jevon Hanley, Latasha Hanley, Edwin Allen, Delisha Powell, Kevin Powell, Vinesha Echevarria, Levi “LJ” Stapleton, and Jenisha Stapleton. Lastly, Soleter leaves behind her daughter, Rena Kirby, her cherished grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.

We wish her eternal peace and will forever cherish all she has been to us and the moments we shared. She will be missed wholeheartedly. Her legacy of care, kindness, and quiet strength will continue to inspire each and every one of us. We love you always.

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