Vanessa Denise Thomas

Vanessa Thomas was born on April 3, 1974, in Chicago, Illinois, to Lorene Williams and Marvin Thomas. As a child, Vanessa cherished spending time in Brinkley, Arkansas, with her grandmother, aunties, uncles, and many cousins. She loved music, which led her to join the church choir. Vanessa attended Cathedral of Faith Church, where she accepted Christ at a young age - a foundation that guided her throughout her life.

Vanessa was a proud student at Ruskin High School, where she was well-known and loved by many. Her personality lit up every room - she was loving, kind-hearted, and always had a beautiful smile to share. At the same time, she was never afraid to speak her mind and stand up for what she believed in.

Family meant everything to Vanessa. She was deeply protective over her loved ones, always willing to go above and beyond to make sure they were cared for. No matter what challenges she faced, Vanessa’s faith and positivity never wavered. She was strong, resilient, and full of life.

Vanessa’s presence was a gift, and her legacy of love, strength, and joy will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Preceding Vanessa in her homegoing are her beloved son, Tony Hughes Jr.; her grandmother, Frankie Mae Brown; her aunt, Willie Garrett; her uncles, Herbert Brown and Earl Brown; and her cousins Brion Brown and Braylon Paschal.

She leaves to cherish her memory her loving mother, Lorene Williams; her children, Rodney Addison, Cierra and Donte Rollins, and Travon and Arriana Hughes; her sisters, Michelle Brown and Brianna Holloman; her brothers, Lewis Perkins and Darryl Williams; her cherished nieces and nephews, Darryona, Payden, Kylen, Siya, and Marlion; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.