Vanessa's life began August 29, 1957 in Benton Harbor, Michigan.  She was a lifetime area resident. Vanessa worked for Memorial Hospital both as an x-ray technician and housekeeping, she also owned her own cleaning business for many years.  When she wasn't working you could find Vanessa playing bingo, trying her luck at the casinos, baking or gathered around a table playing Farkle with family.  Her greatest joy was spending time with her family which includes: five children John Yakel, Everette (Suzy) Gaston, Rashonda (Jason) Fuller, Melody (Elivs) Christopher, and James (Karrann) Gaston; 17 grandchildren; two great grandchildren; her significant other Tony Edge; three sisters April Christopher-Lucker, Spring Johnson, and Summer Smith; and many nieces and nephews. Vanessa died Sunday, April 26, 2020 at Lakeland Hospital Watervliet.  Her dad Henry Christopher, mom Betty (Alsup) Voit, and two sisters Debbie Harry and Harriett Christopher precede Vanessa in death.  Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting Vanessa's family with cremation and a service celebrating her life will be held when we can all gather together safely.  You are invited to leave a message of comfort for Vanessa's family.