Vanessa J. Smith, affectionately known to many as “Cookie,” transitioned from this life on December 28th, 2025. Born on November 27, 1966, in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the beloved daughter of Willie Mae Smith and James Bagley. Vanessa’s foundation of faith was laid early in life; at the age of 11, she gave her life to the Lord at Shiloh Baptist Church. She was educated in the Cleveland public school system, attending Dyke Elementary and Collinwood High School. Throughout her professional life, she was a dedicated employee, notably serving for 14 years at the Federal Building in downtown Cleveland. “Cookie” was a woman of many talents and passions. She found great joy in singing, designing jewelry, collecting coins, and completing puzzles. She was also known for her love of dancing and her spirited, unforgettable personality. She was the life of the party—whether she was line dancing, singing her heart out, or “going off on people” in her own unique way, you always knew when Cookie was in the room. Above all, she treasured the time spent making memories with her family and friends, capturing life’s moments through pictures and videos. She was preceded in death by her beloved baby sister Carol Banks, who left this earth after a long battle with cancer just 29 days before her. Her legacy continues through her loving children and family: (Her Siblings) Sarah Felder, Sophia Smith, Lawrence Smith, Gemelle Thomas, (Her Children) Lamont Smith (Brittany), Shaanika Smith (James). She also leaves behind a host of cherished grandchildren: Ley’Lani Smith, Jay’Shawn Williams, Jordan Williams, Jaiden Williams, Braylon Jones, and Broddrick Taylor, along with a whole host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.