Vanessa was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to Elizabeth Hardeman Benton and Charlie Benton. Throughout her life, she exemplified love, grace, and faith, living as a proud Christian who cherished her relationship with God. Vanessa’s warm heart and giving nature were evident in everything she did. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and adored grandmother who valued family above all else.
Vanessa had a passion for cooking, often delighting her family and friends with delicious meals made from the heart. Her love of life was apparent in her enjoyment of dancing, especially to classic R&B music, where she could always be found with a smile on her face. Vanessa and her beloved husband, Ray, shared a special bond, often traveling together to visit family or simply to enjoy their love of the beach. The ocean always held a special place in her heart.
Vanessa’s sense of style and elegance were unmatched. She took pride in always looking her best and loved shopping with her daughters, finding joy in their time spent together. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she filled her home with the festive spirit, decorating it from top to bottom in vibrant red and white, just like a candy cane. Her home was a reflection of her joy and the love she poured into every moment with those she cherished most.
Above all, Vanessa was a proud grandmother who adored her grandchildren. She loved her family with all her heart and took great pride in watching them grow and flourish. Vanessa’s legacy will live on through the countless memories she created with those she loved.
A celebration of Vanessa’s life will be held at a later date.
Vanessa is survived by her husband, Ray Peterson; her daughter Jamika Minter and Husband Karee Minter; and her daughter Deron Davis and her husband Jerome Davis; her brother Eric Benton and her sister Phyllis White, 6 grandchildren, and many other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.
Vanessa was preceded in death by her father Charlie Benton and her mother Elizabeth Hardeman Benton; her brother Kevin Benton and her brother Clark Benton.
