Vanessa Ann Istre

Vanessa was born in Marrero, LA on July 20, 1961, and moved to Texas in 1986. She fulfilled her desire to help others as a Claims Adjuster for Travelers Insurance; a position she dedicated herself to for close to 30 years.

All who knew Vanessa knew she loved to cook. She made it clear that if you went away from her home hungry, it was your own dang fault. Her homemade spaghetti sauce is rumored to be the “best there ever was.” For confirmation, you may consult any of “Mimi’s babies” (grandchildren) on whom she doted and devoted herself to. In addition to cooking, she enjoyed baking, gardening, traveling, and making those around her smile.

Vanessa is survived by her partner Ivan “Keith” Nelson of Canton, TX; son Gary (Nikki) Usey, Jr. of Rowlett, TX; brother Kenneth W. (Bonny) Durell of Vallejo, CA, stepchildren: Richawnda (“D”) Luckado, Ivan Keith (Sheryce) Nelson II, Rachel Nelson, and Clint Nelson. Vanessa adored and was adored by her ten (10) grandchildren, two (2) great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many more family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth W. Durell, Sr. and Peggy May Lambert, sister Sandra E. Sea, brother Robert Vogel, and husband O’Day Istre.

A Memorial Service celebrating Vanessa’s life will be held on:

Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 2:00pm Eubank Cedar Creek Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 601 S 3rd St, Mabank, TX 75147.