Uncrowned Community Builders

Vanessa Anderson was born on January 22,1958 in Buffalo, New York to the late Samuel Anderson and the late Grace Dixon Ramey. Vanessa was the youngest of six children born to this union.

Vanessa grew up in Buffalo and received her formal education beginning with Public Schools no.12, Clinton Jr. High and Fosdick Masten Girls Vocational High School; graduating early with the Class of 1975. Vanessa received her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Medaille College, followed by Buffalo State College (SUNY) Graduate school, earning her master's in early childhood education.

As a little girl Vanessa regularly attended St. John Baptist Church on Sycamore Street, the pastor was the late Reverend B.C. McCarley and she sang in the Junior Choir. In June of 1972 Vanessa was baptized and became a member of St. John Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Bennett W. Smith, Sr. and continued serving under current Pastor Michael Chapman. Vanessa faithfully served as Sunday School Teacher, Nursery Coordinator, Board of Christian Education Ministry, several years as Co-Chair, and most notably Vacation Bible School Coordinator for over 25 years, diligently providing a Bible based program for hundreds of children filled with educational, spiritual, art, music, and God's love. Vanessa Anderson was equivalent to the "Energizer Bunny" at Vacation Bible School time.

Ms. Anderson was employed with the City of Buffalo Board of Education for over 30 years. Teaching the young minds of Pre-K and Kindergarten at Follow-Through P.S.#8 for many years until its closing, then briefly at P.S. #53 and currently Pre-K at ECC #82 where her class was honored to be a part of the May - June 2016 Pre-K Picasso art exhibit displayed on the 1st floor of City Hall. Her Pre-K student's collaboration was titled "What's the News?" consisting of a beautiful 3D tie dye multi-color painted sunflower made from newspaper. A true masterpiece!

Vanessa was a proud active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Xi Epsilon Omega Chapter. She served a term as the chapter Historian. She also served on numerous chapter committees including the scrapbook committee. Vanessa really loved Flowers, Floral Arranging, Decorating, and with her "green thumb" her plants and small vegetable garden always flourished. She enjoyed cooking, and the joy that her delicious dishes brought to others. Coupling her culinary talent with an interest in entrepreneurship, she established co-ownership of a Soulful Dining and Catering Restaurant that was briefly located on Buffalo's eastside. She was a strong grassroots political supporter, fundraising and campaigning for local government City, County and State elections.

She also liked skiing and was a member of Buffalo's Hot Ice Ski Club in the 80's and 90's. She enjoyed Scrap Booking as a hobby. Despite not being the oldest of her siblings Vanessa was the family care giver. Everyone went to her for guidance. Vanessa's take charge and get it done spirit was always a comfort.

Vanessa was a single Mom who loved and devoted herself to raising her only child, now adult son Kristen Gerald Anderson. She was also a very devoted Nana to her two beautiful granddaughters; Kayla (age 13) and Myla (age 1yr).

Vanessa was preceded in death by both her parents; her stepfather; Jerry Ramey, sister; Juanita Fields, two brothers; Everett Anderson, Reginald Anderson, niece; Haneefah Fields and great-nephew; Jaymon Beathly.

Suddenly but peacefully on the early morning of Friday, December 9, 2016 God called Vanessa home to rest. She is buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery.