Vernessa Faye was born on June 30, 1949, in Akron Ohio to Doretha and Issacs David Jackson.  Vanessa was the oldest of three siblings: Vincent James Kendall and Valerie Martin Fuller.  Both parents preceded her in death.

Vernessa accepter Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at an early age and was baptized at Second Corinthian Baptist Church. She later joined Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Larry L. Harris Sr.

Vernessa was very big on family unity, as the mother of two sons, Kenya and Darius Highsmith, Kenya (preceded her in death), grandmother of eight and great-grandmother of two.

Vernessa highly valued education and work ethics, earning a Masters degree in social work.  She held many jobs advocating for at risk children and made the kids she served her top priority.  She enjoyed reading, shopping, cooking, and socializing.

Vernessa leaves behind to cherish her memory, her son, Darius (Alabama), eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, her uncle Ralph Peay and cousin Ralita Ferguson (Atlanta), her sister, Valerie (Cleveland, OH), her brother Vincent (Annette), Atlanta GA, her nephew Vincent, Columbus, OH, and her niece Charease, Los Angeles, CA, as well as many relatives and friends.