About Denise Valentine
Mrs. Denise Valentine has been a dedicated resident of Desoto for over 30 years. She served as Mayor Pro Tem from 2012 to 2013 and as a City Council Member from 2007 to 2013. Beyond her elected roles, she has tirelessly contributed to numerous civic activities, including her tenure as President of Desoto Dining and Dialogue (2004-2007), member of the DeSoto Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors (2002-2007), Domestic Violence Commissioner (2015-2017), and Chair of the Planning and Zoning (2005-2007).
Denise has also been passionately involved in several special projects, such as initiating the DeSoto Police and Clergy alliance, expanding the role of the DeSoto Arts Commission, founding the BRAWL Boxing Club, and playing a pivotal role in DeSoto winning the All-American City Award.
In her personal life, Denise retired after 27 years of dedicated service with Southwestern Bell and AT&T. Following her retirement, she owned and operated Niecy’s Naturals, providing natural hairstyling services in DeSoto for 15 years. Denise has been married to Wayne Valentine, the President of the Wildwood HOA, for over 30 years and is a proud mother of four daughters, two of whom graduated from DeSoto High School.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her three loving dogs, exploring new restaurants with family and friends, and relaxing on her patio.
Denise’s unwavering commitment to the City of DeSoto has earned her numerous accolades, including the Bobby Waddle Citizen of the Year Award in 2006 and the Curtistene McCowan Citizenship Award in 2023. In recognition of her lasting impact, in 2017, the City of DeSoto proclaimed December 19th, as Denise Valentine Day.
Mission and Vision
The Denise Valentine Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to honoring and uplifting volunteers who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to community service in DeSoto. Our mission is to cultivate a spirit of service by recognizing those who make a meaningful impact.
Each year, on Denise Valentine Day, the foundation hosts DeSoto Vantage Day, an event that brings the community together to share knowledge, strengthen opportunities, support local businesses, and raise funds for scholarships awarded to high school seniors in DeSoto.
Every May, the Foundation proudly awards scholarships to high school seniors in DeSoto who contributed the most community service hours, reinforcing the values of leadership, civic engagement, and service.
Through these initiatives, we strive to inspire all DeSoto residents, regardless of age, to give back and invest in the future of their community. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected DeSoto for generations to come.
