Vera Athalia Hairston, affectionately known as “Lil Vera,” was born in Beckley, WV on December 25, 1962, to Vera Hairston and James Dozier. Vera attended Cleveland Public Schools in her earlier years but completed her public education in Massillon, Ohio. Her Christian journey also began there at St. James AME Zion Church. Vera graduated from Washington, High School in 1980. She attended the University of Akron, where she majored in Accounting, in pursuit of a career as a CPA. She eventually moved to Akron, Ohio, and became employed by the Summit County Department of Jobs & Family Services. At the time of her passing, she had been employed there 18 years, most recently as a Fiscal Officer in the Finance and Budget Division.

Vera was an avid reader and enjoyed DIY Home Remodeling.

She leaves to cherish her memory two sons, Brandon Owens and Steven Hairston; three grandchildren, Branae Owens, Iesha Brooks, and Isaac Brooks; mother, Vera Hairston; four brothers, Eric Parish (Laurie), Vincent Parish, M. Douglas Hairston, and Darrell Hairston (Chjzomam Amachi); four aunts, Joan Cade, Gloria Lebby, Angela Henderson, and Marva Henderson and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends.