Vanessa Hunter

Born on August 3, 1961, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to loving parents, Charles Hunter and Margaret Parish, Vanessa had an insuppressible passion for living life.

As a curious and spirited young girl in Shreveport, Vanessa possessed a strong craving for adventure, which led to countless jaw-dropping and entertaining stories. If there was any trail or mission to be discovered, Vanessa pursued it.

As a teenager in Seattle, Washington, Vanessa's self-discovery of poetic talent and fervor for dancing, speaking and writing marked her as one of the most creative, attractive and friendliest students at Garfield High School. Friends often referred to her as the smart social magnet because people loved to be around her.

As an adult, Vanessa achieved a professional certification in business from the Business Computer Technical Institute (BCTI) as well as a culinary arts certification from Renton Technical College. Her combined knowledge of business administration and fine entrees made her a vital asset to Boeing's food department as well as the friends and family that delighted in her cuisines.

Undoubtedly, Vanessa was an exceptional woman. Her love for life continues to be expressed through innumerable, lasting impressions of the lives she touched, and by the family she loved dearly: three sons, Ellard Thomas, Christopher Hunter and Eddie Hunter. Two daughters: Shameka Finister and Betty Hunter. Five grandchildren: Akiya Finister, Akayla Finister, Ellard Thomas II, Sy'ier Hunter, and Khalil Hunter. One great grandchild: Sir'Rel Bey-Darrett.

Other family members that Vanessa loved, and is survived by, are her mother, Margaret Parish; brother, Maxwell Hunter; sister, Odessa Dyer; fiance, Frazier Chesney, and many cousins, aunts and uncles.