Vanessa Wilson

Vanessa D. Wilson (Van) was born April 18, 1953 in Cleveland, Ohio. Daughter of the late Hershel Rogers and Mattie E. Andrews. Proceeding in death her brother John. Vanessa accepted Christ at an early age in life and belonged to Family United Baptist Church.

Vanessa attended the Cleveland Public School System. She graduated with honors one year early from East Tech High School. She attended Cleveland State University for 3 ½ years but had to withdraw to take care of her mother.


Vanessa married Wellington Wilson (Rat) on Sweetest Day October 16, 1976 and they went on to raise their children. Wellington proceeds her in death. Her loving, devoted companion Robert E. Barnes (Bobby) also proceeds her in death.


Vanessa was a hard worker. She started working at the age of 13, making cards on a hand printer. Vanessa began her career at Ohio Bell as a service rep, where she retired after 30 years. She enjoyed being around people and became a part-time receptionist at Willow Park.


Vanessa was a loving, beautiful and caring person who loved to cook, bake, shop and party. She was always prepared 3 months in advance for an event. She loved scary movies and TV shows especially vampires. Her favorite station was SyFy. She was an avid Marilyn Monroe fan. She loved music her favorite artist was Frankie Beverly and Maze. She was known for her caramel cakes and macaroni and cheese. Everything she cooked was amazing. She loved her dogs Coco and Monroe. She especially loved her brother and her daughters.


Vanessa was a giving person. She was always willing to extend a helping hand no matter the situation or her own personal circumstances, she never expected anything in return. She befriended so many people and created lifelong relationships. She didn't need anything she had everything she needed in her family.


Vanessa leaves to cherish her memories with three children, Erica "Pumpkin", Vanessa Jr "Myce" (Terry), and Cesarae "Reddbone"; two step children, Alesia, and Demetrius Bell; seven grandchildren, Lonnie, London, Layton, Landis, Madison, Terri "One Dimple" and Tyree; three great-grandchildren, Joshua, Miah and Charlie. One Sister, Kathryn Hunt, one Sister-in-law, Evelyn Gaines; and a host of nieces and nephews.