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1953 Vanessa McAfee 2025

Vanessa McAfee

January 17, 1953 — January 31, 2025

Vanessa McAfee, age 72, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 17, 1953, in Massillon, Ohio, to William and Jean McAfee. A woman of faith and unwavering strength, Vanessa was called to eternal rest after a life of service, love, and dedication to her family and community.Vanessa's spiritual journey began at an early age when she accepted Christ and became a member of Full Gospel Temple in Massillon. Later in life, she became a member of Christian Revival and Discipleship Center in Canton.Vanessa's commitment to her work was as steadfast as her faith. A 1971 graduate of McKinley High School, she furthered her education at Court Reporters and Stenographers Inc., beginning her career at Stark County Family Court the same year. Vanessa spent more than 40 years in this role, retiring with numerous accolades for her dedication and exceptional service.Above all, Vanessa’s most treasured gift was her daughter, Kathleen, whom she loved deeply and proudly. She was also a devoted grandmother to William McAfee Witherspoon and Kai McAfee Straughter, two young men she adored with all her heart. Known for her independence, reliability, and no-nonsense approach to life, Vanessa lived quietly and privately, content in her own company but always there for those she loved. Her home was a reflection of her personality: decorated in her favorite color, green. Whether it was her green car, kitchenware, or pens, the color was an integral part of her identity. Vanessa’s hobbies included cooking, decorating, puzzles, traveling, watching movies, and spending time with her family. She had a special love for Disney and enjoyed creating lasting memories with her loved ones. Her generosity, kindness, and quiet strength will be forever cherished by her family, friends, and all who knew her.Vanessa was preceded in death by her father, William McAfee Sr.; mother, Jean K. Lucas; fiancé, William "Bill" Wiley; and several beloved family members, including her paternal grandparents, Hansel and Annie Lee McAfee, and maternal grandparents, Robert Rice Sr. and Ethel C. Turner. She was also preceded by Uncles Robert Rice Jr, and James Rice, her Aunt Lorraine Richardson, and nephew/son James Lucas.She leaves behind to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Kathleen (Kitty) McAfee; grandsons, William McAfee Witherspoon and Kai McAfee Straughter; brothers, William McAfee Jr., Jeffery McAfee, John Lucas, Ronald Lucas, and Jerald Lucas Sr.; sisters, Sharon Lucas, Julie Anne Ali, and Lisa K. Lucas; and stepfather, John J. Lucas Jr. She is also survived by her uncles, Ronald and William Turner; aunt, Sherry Green; and a host of relatives and friends. Vanessa held a special place in her heart for her nieces, including, Alicia McAfee-Small, Trazell Jones, Marshaa Lucas, Kasha Lucas, Kanika Marsh, Katrees Bryant and Allay Lucas. Her nephews, William McAfee III, Christopher McAfee, Brandon McAfee, Kelvin "Anthony "Lindsey, Hakim Ali II, Jerald Lucas Jr, Shawn Hall and John Lucas as well as her great-nephew, Kingston Lindsey, and great-niece, Marae Lucas Womack.Her legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Vanessa may be gone, but she will never be forgotten. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, whose lives she touched so deeply.

On behalf of Vanessa’s family, we would like to thank everyone for their love, support, thoughts and prayers. Per her request, no service will be held. Condolences can be sent to 

Kathleen McAfee
> 2984 Ironstone Dr
> Columbus OH 43231 

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