Vanessa Denise Bennett

Vanessa Denise Bennett, affectionately known to all as Nay-Nay, left us unexpectedly on May 19, 2024, at the age of 33. Born on June 19, 1990, in New Haven, CT, she was the kind of person who brought light and laughter into every room she entered. Nay-Nay passed away in West Haven, CT, leaving behind a legacy of joy, generosity, and an impressive collection of selfies that could rival any influencer's portfolio.
Nay-Nay was the life of the party, and not just because she was a Gemini (though she'd always say that explained at least two of her personalities). Her infectious smile and laugh were her superpowers, capable of turning any frown upside down. She was the selfie queen who never missed an opportunity to capture a moment, and her social media feeds were a testament to her zest for life and the many faces of Nay-Nay.
Behind the laughter and the perfect pouts, Vanessa was a rock for her family and friends. She leaves behind her beloved sons, Isiah and D'kari, who were the true lights of her life. Her grandmother, Virginia Bennett, and grandfather, Robert Dowdy, will miss her deeply, as will her father, Byron McFadden. Her siblings-Veronica, Darius, David, Madison, Terrance, and Kindal-have lost not just a sister but a confidante and a partner in crime. Her aunts Peggy, Vicki, Theresa, and Robin, along with her uncle Bryant, and cousins Curt, Yaw, Mikey, Quinn, Tyler, Joel, and Zaylene, will forever cherish the memories of her boundless spirit.
Vanessa was a woman of many sides, and she embraced them all with open arms. She could light up the dance floor with moves that would make a disco ball dizzy, and her jokes could make even the sternest of faces crack a smile. She was the embodiment of generosity, always the first to offer a helping hand or the shirt off her back, even if it was her favorite one. This selflessness was a trait she inherited from her mother, Cynthia, who taught her the true meaning of giving.
Her interests were as varied as the many selfies she took. Vanessa could turn a simple meal into a feast, sharing food and drinks as though she were the host of an eternal banquet. Her energy was magnetic, drawing people to her with the promise of good times and great company.
Words like generous, thoughtful, and selfless only scratch the surface of who Vanessa was. She was a giver in a world that often takes, and she did so with a heart full of love and hands ready to support those around her.
As we say goodbye to Nay-Nay, let's not dwell on the silence left in the wake of her laughter. Instead, let's remember the sound of her joy, the warmth of her embrace, and the way she could tell a story that would leave you in stitches. Vanessa Denise Bennett may have left the stage too soon, but the encore of her influence will play on in the hearts and minds of everyone she touched.
So, here's to Nay-Nay, our Gemini queen, who showed us that life is best lived with a smile on your face, a joke on your lips, and enough selfies to ensure you're never forgotten. Rest in peace, Vanessa. Your punchlines will echo eternally, and your final curtain call was met with a standing ovation.