Vanessa (Draper) Tanner

Vanessa D. Tanner, was born in Columbus, Ohio on July 20, 1959 and passed away Tuesday, July 17, 2014 at the age of 54, after a brief battle with cancer. Vanessa is preceded in death by her parents Andrew Sr. and Sarah Draper, twin brother Verbie Draper and longtime companion, James Alexander. She is survived by brothers, Andrew Draper Jr. and Erick Draper; Sisters, Dorris (Wayne) Jenkins, Deborah (Ron) Coleman; Nieces, Felicia (Gary) Thornton, Tamarah (Montie) Kincaid and Camilia Draper; Nephews, Duncan E. Draper, James (Yvette) Goolsby and Devlon Brown; Step-daughter Michelle Alexander and a host of great nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. Even as her health was declining, Vanessa remained positive and upbeat until the very end. Somehow she always managed to say or do something that would make you laugh, even when she was in pain or didn’t feel well, just to make you feel better. Vanessa’s love, dedication and support of her family, was never-ending, as was shown with the love and care she provided for our mother in her final years as well as a lifetime of love, care and involvement with every member of the family. Vanessa’s kind, bright spirit touched all that she met and more than likely there would be a smile your face as a result of meeting her. Although her time here on earth was cut short, the memories of our dear sister will live on in our hearts and minds forever. She will be dearly missed.