Vanessa Rena Chatman

Life's Reflection

Vanessa Rena Chatman was born in Kansas City, Kansas, August 3, 1966 to Waynell Young Chatman, and Philip Chatman. Vanessa was the first born of three sisters “The 3 V’s” which they were lovingly called. She passed peacefully in the comfort of her home at the age of 56, on Saturday, February 18, 2023.

Vanessa accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior at an early age. She held on to her faith throughout her life's journey. 

Vanessa was a beautiful soul, she lit up any room she walked in. Her laugh was contagious, and her spirit was unshakable. She accepted everyone as they were and had dear friends from all walks of life. She loved to dance and read a new book every week (she LOVED her books). She was one of the most creative people you could meet and enjoyed spending time making jewelry, crafting, crocheting, and writing.

She released her first book “Icebreaker” in 2017, and wrote and produced the play Decisions, Dilemmas, and Denials. She finished writing her second book at the beginning of her sickness progression. 

Vanessa enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Any given weekend you would find her hanging out with her grandchildren, going out to eat, taking adventures, shopping, or just sitting at the house watching TV. Her grandchildren meant the world to her.

Vanessa loved traveling! Two of her most memorable vacations were when she took her grandchildren to Disney World to experience all 4 parks, and when she traveled with her daughter, cousin, and uncles to Hawaii.

Vanessa attended John F. Kennedy elementary and graduated from F.L. Schlagle High School in 1984. She received her associates degree from Baker University.  Vanessa worked for Missouri Gas & Energy for fifteen years, there she met so many of her treasured friends. She worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield until her sickness progressed.

Vanessa was preceded in death by her mother Waynell Young Chatman. She leaves to cherish in her memory daughter, Ericka Chatman, son, Darnell Walker, father, Philip Chatman (Bonnie), grandchildren, Mya Walker, Za’Niya Walker, Dre’Vionne Campbell, Aaliyah Walker, sisters, Valenta Headd (Olinza), Veronica Chatman, members of her book club “Read Between the Wines,” lifelong friend, Thomasina Roland, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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