women who held families together without ever asking for recognition.
Today I honor my sister, Vanessa — our Van.
Van had a presence you felt immediately. She was sharp, funny, and quick on her feet. If there was a card game happening, she was in it — and more often than not, she was winning. But what truly set her apart was her humor. She could make you laugh without even trying. Her comebacks were effortless. Being around her meant joy.
Family was everything to her. She loved gathering the kids, taking them to the park, sitting outside while they played, and talking about life while keeping a watchful eye. Nothing extravagant. Just time together. Just love in motion.
She stayed connected to her faith and our church community, walking alongside our mother and siblings. She carried loyalty, warmth, and a protective spirit for those she loved.
Her daughter once shared:“My mother had the kind of sense of humor that stayed with you. She could make anyone laugh, no matter what was going on. Being funny came naturally to her. She was a comedienne without even trying, and I guess that is where I get it from. Some of my favorite memories are simply us laughing together. I miss her every day.”
Her time here was shorter than we wished, but her imprint is lasting. The laughter she sparked, the memories she helped create, and the love she poured into her family continue through the generations that followed.
That is Black history, too.
Van, you are still remembered.
You are still loved.
And you are still part of us.
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